Overview
This 1976 Holton TR395 MF Superbone is an exceptionally well-preserved original example from Holton’s Elkhorn, Wisconsin factory. Serial number 540849 places its manufacture in 1976, during the early years of the Superbone’s association with Maynard Ferguson.
The TR395 combines a traditional trombone hand slide with a three-piston valve section. It can be played using the slide, the valves, or both systems together. The result is one of the most unusual and recognizable specialty trombones produced during the 1970s.
Original Holton Superbones do not appear on the market very often, particularly in this condition. This instrument retains its original components and original lacquer, shows no evidence of past damage, and appears to have received relatively little playing time.
Condition and Playability
This Superbone is remarkably clean and plays exactly as it should. It appears to have spent much of its life properly stored rather than heavily used.
- Original lacquer and original components
- No evidence of past damage
- Three Monel piston valves move smoothly and freely
- Valve surfaces show no corrosion or meaningful wear
- Excellent hand-slide alignment
- Straight inner slide tubes
- Chrome plating on the inner tubes remains fully intact
- No cleaning or corrective service needed to improve playability
The genuine Holton case remains intact and serviceable. The latches and handle operate properly. The exterior fabric shows wear near the bell end of the case, but the case remains structurally sound and suitable for protecting the instrument.
Specifications
- Model: Holton TR395 MF Superbone
- Serial Number: 540849
- Manufactured: 1976
- Factory: Elkhorn, Wisconsin
- Key: B-flat
- Bore: .484 inch
- Bell: Original yellow brass, approximately 8¾ inches measured
- Tuning Slide: Yellow brass
- Hand Slide: Nickel-silver outer slide with chrome-plated nickel-silver inner tubes
- Valve Section: Three top-action Monel pistons
- Finish: Original clear lacquer
- Case: Genuine Holton case included
- Mouthpiece: Not included
Player Perspective
The Superbone is best understood as a specialty instrument for the adventurous player. It is particularly well suited to jazz and commercial soloists, valve-trombone players, and trumpet players who double on trombone and are already comfortable with three-piston fingerings.
The valves allow rapid articulated passages and familiar trumpet-style fingering, while the hand slide provides glissandi, flexible intonation, and traditional trombone expression. Using both systems together creates possibilities unavailable on a conventional slide or valve trombone.
Mechanically, this instrument presents no challenge. The real question is whether its next owner can master the valves and slide as convincingly as Ashley Alexander or Maynard Ferguson.
Common Questions
Can the Superbone be played as a conventional slide trombone?
Yes. With the valves open, the TR395 can be played using its hand slide like a traditional B-flat trombone. It can also be played primarily through the three-piston valve section or by combining the valves and slide.
Who is the Holton Superbone best suited for?
It is most naturally suited to jazz and commercial players, valve-trombone players, multi-instrumentalists, collectors, and trumpet players interested in doubling on trombone. Its greatest potential comes from learning to coordinate both operating systems creatively.
Included
This Holton TR395 includes its genuine Holton case. The case is intact with working latches and handle, although the exterior fabric shows wear at the bell end. A mouthpiece is not included.
Professional trombone trade-in inquiries are welcome. Contact The Brass Exchange with the maker, model, serial number, condition details, and current photographs of the instrument you would like considered.
Fulfillment & Ordering
📦 Ships via Federal Express the same business day whenever possible.
🛡️ Professionally packed, fully insured, and carefully prepared for safe arrival.
✅ Every instrument receives a final inspection before shipment.
📧 Tracking information is provided immediately after your order ships.
✍️ Looking to reduce your out-of-pocket cost? Consider trading in your current instrument. Complete our Trade Evaluation Form, or use the convenient orange Trade Evaluation box located next to the Add to Cart section on this page.
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