📸 Historical Photography Note:
The images on this page were taken during an earlier period in The Brass Exchange’s history — before we refined our studio lighting and digital workflow.
We have chosen to keep these original photos intact to help document the evolution of our photography style and the timeline of our shop’s growth, while preserving the authentic record of this instrument as it appeared at the time of sale.
The Kanstul 1602BP .500 bore jazz tenor trombone was one of the most respected modern interpretations of the classic L.A. studio and big-band sound.
Designed with input from Alan Kaplan, the 1602BP quickly became a go-to horn for players seeking that versatile “LA sound.”
✦ Condition at Time of Sale
7.5″ yellow-brass one-piece bell
Lightweight brass .500-bore handslide with three removable leadpipes
Professional slide setup — tension-free and played effortlessly
In excellent overall condition at time of sale
Shipped with a new MTS case
✦ Musical Context
The 1602BP is highly regarded as an ideal all-around jazz tenor for:
Big-band lead work
Studio and commercial playing
Small-group jazz where agility and warmth are both needed
Its design combined Kanstul’s precision manufacturing with Kaplan’s insight into what working L.A. players needed for consistency, response, and tone color.
Who was Alan Kaplan and what was his role in the 1602BP?
Alan Kaplan is a renowned Los Angeles studio and big-band trombonist.
He collaborated with Kanstul in refining the 1602BP’s handslide and bell setup to capture the responsive, colorful, and flexible sound required in demanding studio and live settings.
How does the Kanstul 1602BP compare to vintage small-bore jazz horns?
The 1602BP delivers a similar lively character and crisp projection found in vintage L.A. horns (like certain King and Conn models), but with modern consistency, improved ergonomics, and excellent intonation.
Is the 1602BP still relevant today?
Absolutely.
Although Kanstul has since ceased production, these instruments remain sought-after by jazz and commercial players for their responsive slide, warm tone, and well-balanced feel.
📌Archive Note
This Kanstul 1602BP .500 Bore Jazz Tenor Trombone has been sold and is now preserved here as part of our Archive of Sold Instruments for historical reference — and as a record of both the instrument and the early photography era of The Brass Exchange.
Looking for a similar jazz or studio-ready small-bore tenor trombone?
👉 Browse our current trombone listings 🔎
📖 Explore more historical jazz and small-bore trombones in our Archive of Sold Instruments to see how these instruments — and our shop — have evolved over time
