Overview
The König & Meyer 14990 is one of the most widely used heavy-duty trombone stands—but is it actually the best option for bass and large-bore tenor players?
Built in Germany with heavy-duty steel construction, the 14990 is designed specifically for instruments that require more stability: .547 large-bore tenors with F-attachments, modular setups, and full-size bass trombones up to 10.5" bells.
Where lighter stands may wobble or feel unstable under weight, the 14990 remains planted. Its wide tripod base, two-section telescoping tube, and adjustable center cone allow you to dial in a secure fit across a range of instrument sizes.
An important design feature is the adjustable base diameter. By raising the center column slightly, the tripod legs draw inward to reduce the footprint for tighter spaces. Lowering the column spreads the legs wider, increasing stability. For heavier instruments—especially bass trombones—the wider base position provides the most secure support.
If your goal is maximum stability and long-term reliability, this is the K&M stand most players trust.
Which K&M Trombone Stand Do I Need?
Not all K&M trombone stands are the same—and they are not interchangeable.
K&M 14990 (this model)
Heavy-duty stand designed for large-bore tenor trombones and bass trombones.
K&M 14885
Compact, lightweight stand designed primarily for small-bore and standard tenor trombone setups.
If you're playing a bass trombone or a heavier .547 tenor with F-attachment, the 14990 is the better choice for long-term stability and support.
If portability is your primary concern and you play a smaller or lighter setup, the 14885 may be the better fit.
Why Bass Trombone Players Choose the K&M 14990
For most bass trombonists, stability is the deciding factor.
The wider tripod base, heavier steel construction, and taller center support provide a level of confidence that smaller folding stands often cannot match.
Whether you're playing in an orchestra, jazz ensemble, pit orchestra, church setting, or teaching studio, the 14990 remains planted and secure even with larger instruments and frequent set-downs.
For players using 9.5", 10", or 10.5" bass trombone bells, the 14990 continues to be our preferred recommendation.
Player Perspective
The 14990 is the stand you choose when stability matters more than portability.
It sets down firmly and doesn't bounce when placing the horn.
The added height keeps the instrument comfortably positioned.
The structure feels rigid and secure—even under heavier bass trombones.
The adjustable base is a subtle but very useful feature in real-world use. In tighter rehearsal spaces or orchestra pits, you can slightly reduce the footprint by raising the stand. When maximum stability is the priority, lowering the stand creates a wider stance and more secure platform.
Bass trombonists notice the difference immediately. There is no wobble, twisting, or feeling that the stand is working at its limits.
For large-bore tenor players using heavier setups, aftermarket components, or modular systems, the added stability provides peace of mind during rehearsals and performances.
This is the workhorse stand in the K&M lineup.
Who This Stand Is Best For
- Bass trombone players seeking maximum stability
- Large-bore tenor trombone players (.547) with F-attachments
- Musicians using heavier or modular instrument setups
- Orchestra, rehearsal, pit, church, and teaching environments
- Players who value long-term durability over ultra-light portability
Design & Characteristics
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Made in Germany by König & Meyer
- Wide tripod base for increased stability
- Adjustable base footprint
- Adjustable center cone for proper bell fit
- Telescoping height adjustment
- Protective plastic peg to prevent bell wear
- Folds for transport and storage
Compared to smaller folding stands, the 14990 provides noticeably greater stability, particularly for bass trombone and large-bore tenor trombone applications.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
Is the K&M 14990 stable enough for a full-size bass trombone?
Yes. The 14990 is specifically designed to support larger instruments and works exceptionally well with bass trombones up to approximately 10.5" bell diameter.
Is this better than the K&M 14885 for .547 large-bore tenor trombones?
For most large-bore tenor trombones with F-attachments, yes. The larger base and heavier construction provide greater stability and confidence during daily use.
Does it fold down for travel?
Yes. The tripod legs fold flat and the center tube collapses for transport and storage. While not as compact as the 14885, it remains practical for rehearsals, performances, and travel.
What is the best trombone stand for bass trombone?
For most bass trombonists, the K&M 14990 is our preferred recommendation. The wider tripod base and heavier construction provide greater stability than compact stands designed primarily for tenor trombone use.
Can the base width be adjusted?
Yes. Raising the center column slightly narrows the tripod footprint, while lowering it widens the stance and increases stability. For bass trombones and heavier instruments, the wider position is recommended.
🏅 Why Players Trust The Brass Exchange
Since 2010, The Brass Exchange—located in St. Louis, Missouri—has helped thousands of players choose the right accessories to protect their instruments and match their performing needs. We recommend stands based on real-world use, and K&M continues to be the most reliable option for both tenor and bass trombones.
📦Fulfillment & Ordering
The K&M 14990 Trombone Stand is normally in stock and ships within 1–2 business days from The Brass Exchange in St. Louis, Missouri.
Ordering is simple. Just add the stand to your cart and complete checkout through our secure online ordering system. You will receive an email confirmation after your order is placed, and tracking information will be provided once your shipment is on the way.
Most orders ship via FedEx and are carefully packed to ensure safe delivery.
📌 Next Steps
👉 Prefer a compact option for smaller setups?
K&M 14885 Compact Trombone Stand
https://www.thebrass-exchange.com/content/km-14885-trombone-stand-compact-lightweight-german-made
👉 Ready to upgrade your setup beyond accessories?
🔎 Browse professional trombones currently in stock:
https://www.thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
