Overview
This S.E. Shires Custom 2RT7 tenor trombone represents an outstanding example of an early Massachusetts-built Custom Series instrument from the mid-to-late 2000s, before Shires introduced what eventually became known as the Vintage Elkhart (VE) model. Built during the period when Steve Shires still owned and directed the company, these instruments reflected a boutique approach to professional trombone building, with every model developed under his direct design philosophy.
Beautifully preserved and professionally maintained, this instrument remains in mint original condition with no evidence of damage, repair, lacquer loss, or previous abuse.
Its design was inspired by the legendary Conn Elkhart 88H, combining an 8½-inch rose brass bell with an unsoldered rim, a .547-inch large bore, and the original T47 handslide featuring the nickel silver end crook. While today's Vintage Elkhart models utilize the newer T47YC handslide, many experienced Shires players continue to appreciate the response and feel of this original T47 configuration.
Condition Summary
This instrument has been exceptionally well cared for throughout its life and remains in remarkable original condition.
- No dents, dings, or previous repairs
- Original lacquer remains virtually flawless
- Excellent handslide action
- Valve and tuning slides operate smoothly
- Professionally inspected and ready to perform immediately
The original Massachusetts floral engraving remains crisp and beautifully preserved, reflecting one of the most recognizable engraving styles from Shires' early Massachusetts production years.
Included is one original removable leadpipe. A mouthpiece is not included.
Included with this instrument is a premium Marco Magi NN-TRK Italian leather hard shell case, developed through a collaboration between The Brass Exchange and Marco Magi. Finished in an elegant two-tone black and dark brown leather exterior, it provides exceptional protection while complementing the craftsmanship of this early Shires Custom instrument. If you'd like to learn more about the design, construction, and development of this case, see our Marco Magi Italian Trombone Cases page.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: S.E. Shires
- Model: Custom 2RT7
- Production Era: Mid-to-Late 2000s, Early Massachusetts / Pre-Eastman
- Bell: Model 2RT7 — 8½-inch rose brass with unsoldered rim
- Bore: .547-inch
- Handslide: Original T47 with nickel silver end crook
- Leadpipe: One original removable leadpipe included
- Finish: Clear lacquer
- Case: Marco Magi NN-TRK Italian leather hard shell case
- Mouthpiece: Not included
Player Perspective
Players familiar with the legendary Conn Elkhart 88H will feel immediately at home on this instrument. The response, balance, and tonal character reflect many of the classic qualities that inspired Steve Shires during the development of his early Custom Series while adding the precision and modular flexibility that helped establish Shires as one of the world's premier professional trombone makers.
The factory 2RT7 bell combines several of the features that made these early Shires Custom trombones so successful. The "2" designates the bell taper, the "R" identifies rose brass construction, and the "T7" indicates a custom bell flare produced through additional hand finishing during manufacturing. Together they produce a broad, colorful orchestral sound with excellent resonance, projection, and flexibility.
Today's closest equivalent would be the 2RVE bell used on the Vintage Elkhart series. While the naming conventions evolved over time, experienced Shires players immediately recognize the heritage shared between this early Massachusetts-built Custom Series instrument and today's Vintage Elkhart models.
This is an ideal professional tenor trombone for orchestra, symphonic band, chamber music, solo performance, and virtually any all-around large bore application.
Questions Players Often Ask
What makes this an early Massachusetts Shires?
This instrument was built during the mid-to-late 2000s before the Vintage Elkhart model designation existed and while Steve Shires still owned and directed the company. It features the original Massachusetts floral bell engraving along with the original Custom Series configuration from that period.
How does this compare to today's Vintage Elkhart model?
The design philosophy is very similar. Both were inspired by the classic Conn Elkhart 88H, sharing an 8½-inch rose brass bell with an unsoldered rim and broad orchestral playing characteristics. This example retains the original T47 handslide rather than the current T47YC configuration and carries the original 2RT7 bell designation.
What mouthpiece does it use?
The instrument accepts any standard large shank trombone mouthpiece. A mouthpiece is not included.
Is this a good all-around professional tenor?
Absolutely. Its playing characteristics make it equally comfortable in orchestra, wind ensemble, chamber music, solo literature, and general professional performance.
Shop Perspective
Early Massachusetts-built S.E. Shires Custom trombones occupy an important chapter in the company's history. Built before the Eastman acquisition, they represent the period when Steve Shires personally guided both product development and the company's custom-building philosophy. While today's Shires instruments continue to serve professional musicians around the world, many experienced players actively seek these earlier Massachusetts-built examples because of their originality, craftsmanship, and historical significance.
Having handled numerous early Shires Custom instruments over the years, we find exceptionally preserved examples such as this becoming increasingly difficult to acquire. Many have accumulated decades of professional use, component changes, or cosmetic wear. This instrument remains remarkably original, retaining its early floral engraving, factory 2RT7 bell, original T47 handslide, finish, and overall configuration.
For players searching for an authentic early Massachusetts-built Shires in truly mint condition, opportunities like this have become increasingly uncommon.
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.
💳 Need financing? Contact us before placing your order. We'll be happy to discuss available payment options and help determine the solution that best fits your needs.