Courtois Bass Trombone Legend Series Model AC550BH, serial number 41936. This is a pre-owned professional independent rotor bass trombone, made in Paris, France, and part of the highly regarded Courtois Legend Series. It features a 9.5" de-lacquered yellow brass one-piece bell, which delivers a broad, rich sound ideal for orchestral, symphonic, or large ensemble work. The instrument has a .562 bore standard weight slide, offering excellent balance of power and flexibility.
This horn is in very good condition with no signs of previous damage, dents, or dings. There is some lacquer loss on the outer handslide, but it’s not too bad. The inner slide tubes are straight and free of defects such as plating loss, ensuring smooth, responsive action. It does not require any professional service to improve performance — it’s ready to play as is.
The Hagmann valves are a standout feature, known for their low resistance, open feel, and quick, quiet action. They are also easier to maintain than traditional rotor systems, making this model especially attractive to professional players who want reliability and excellent response.
This model sells new today in 2025 in the $7,000 range, making this pre-owned example an excellent value for anyone seeking a top-tier professional bass trombone at a more accessible price point. Includes the original factory case; mouthpiece not included.
What makes Courtois bass trombones with Hagmann valves so popular among professional players?
Courtois bass trombones with Hagmann valves offer a freer, more open airflow compared to traditional rotary valves, resulting in better response and easier transitions in all registers. The design provides a clean, centered sound with excellent projection, while the lightweight, quiet action appeals to advanced players who need quick valve shifts without added resistance.
This AC440BH Bass Trombone Has been sold and is now shown here as a reference archive.
