Overview
This Kanstul 1588 Open Wrap Tenor Trombone appears to represent an uncommon variation on the company's professional large-bore platform. While retaining the familiar 8.5" bell, open-wrap F-attachment, and Kanstul Controlled Resistance rotary valve associated with the 1588 design, this example features what appears to be an estimated .530/.547 dual-bore slide configuration paired with a fixed leadpipe designed for small-shank tenor trombone mouthpieces.
The result is a trombone that occupies a particularly attractive niche in the trombone world. It offers much of the tonal breadth, projection, and authority associated with traditional large-bore orchestral instruments while maintaining a more compact and responsive feel than many conventional .547 bore tenors.
For players who have always enjoyed instruments such as the Bach 36B but occasionally wished for a larger sound, this Kanstul provides a compelling alternative. Likewise, players who appreciate the sound of a Bach 42B or Conn 88H but prefer a slightly more agile and efficient setup may find this instrument especially appealing.
The final Kanstul price list published in 2019 showed an MSRP of approximately $4,000 for the Model 1588. Today, with Kanstul no longer producing instruments and this uncommon dual-bore configuration rarely appearing on the secondary market, our offering represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire a professional-grade American-made tenor trombone at a fraction of its original retail cost.
Condition Summary
This is an adult-owned, lightly used instrument in excellent condition. The lacquer remains exceptionally well preserved, and the trombone shows no evidence of major damage history or significant repair work. The slide is smooth, properly aligned, and plays freely throughout all positions. The valve action is quiet and dependable, and the instrument presents beautifully both cosmetically and mechanically.
Following inspection and play testing, no service needs were identified. This is a clean, professional-quality Kanstul trombone ready for immediate performance use.
Player Perspective
The most distinctive aspect of this instrument is its playing feel.
The estimated .530/.547 dual-bore slide provides a more compact response than a traditional straight .547 tenor while still delivering the breadth and presence expected from an 8.5" bell professional trombone. Articulations feel clean and immediate, and the horn responds quickly without becoming overly bright or lightweight.
The fixed leadpipe accepts standard small-shank tenor trombone mouthpieces and pairs particularly well with familiar setups such as a Bach 6½AL or Bach 5G. This configuration creates a comfortable transition for players coming from medium-bore or medium-large bore instruments while still allowing access to a broader, more symphonic tonal palette.
The open-wrap F-attachment and Kanstul Controlled Resistance rotary valve provide smooth airflow and a very consistent trigger register. Notes below low F speak easily, and the instrument maintains excellent slotting and stability throughout the range.
In practical terms, this trombone delivers much of the sound and authority of a large tenor while feeling slightly more compact and efficient under the hands.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
What makes this Kanstul 1588 different from a standard large-bore tenor?
This example appears to feature an uncommon dual-bore slide configuration estimated at approximately .530/.547 rather than a traditional straight large-bore setup. The result is a more compact and responsive playing feel while still producing a broad professional tenor trombone sound.
Does it use a small-shank mouthpiece?
Yes. This instrument features a fixed leadpipe that accepts standard small-shank tenor trombone mouthpieces. Popular choices such as a Bach 6½AL or Bach 5G pair exceptionally well with this setup.
Who is this trombone best suited for?
This model is particularly attractive for players who enjoy the sound of a large-bore tenor but prefer a slightly more agile response. It is equally at home in wind ensemble, chamber music, commercial playing, church work, and many orchestral settings.
How does it compare to a Bach 36B or Bach 42B?
This instrument occupies an interesting middle ground. It offers a larger sound and greater breadth than a typical Bach 36B while feeling somewhat more compact and responsive than many traditional straight .547 orchestral tenors.
What's Included
- Kanstul 1588 Open Wrap Tenor Trombone
- Fixed small-shank leadpipe configuration
- Black Cordura Cronkhite backpack-style gig bag in excellent condition
Why Players Trust The Brass Exchange
Every instrument we offer is personally inspected, evaluated, and represented by a professional brass specialist. No drop-shipping, no vague descriptions, and no stock photography. Just accurate information, honest assessment, and decades of experience helping players find the right instrument for their needs.
Fulfillment & Availability
This Kanstul 1588 Open Wrap Tenor Trombone is in stock and available now.
Each instrument is professionally inspected prior to shipment and carefully packed using industry-proven methods developed through thousands of successful brass instrument shipments worldwide.
Additional photos, playing impressions, and trade-in evaluations are always available upon request.
Next Steps
✅ This Kanstul 1588 Dual Bore Variant is available now and represents a unique opportunity to acquire a professional Kanstul tenor with a highly unusual playing configuration.
🔄 Considering a trade-in (full or partial)? Complete our Trade-In Form ✍️ and explore your options.
📚 Interested in Kanstul instruments? Explore our historical Kanstul archive and learn more about the legacy of Zig Kanstul and his Anaheim-built instruments.