Overview
The S.E. Shires K30 tenor trombone (model STBK30) was introduced by Shires in 2016 as part of the K Series, designed for advancing players seeking the characteristic Shires sound and response in a straightforward, traditional design.
This large-bore tenor features a .547 bore, open-wrap F-attachment, and an 8.5″ two-piece medium-light yellow brass bell with a soldered rim. The bell profile is very similar to the Custom Series #7 bell taper and closely related to bells used on Q30 models, producing a warm, resonant orchestral sound with excellent projection.
The bell is finished in clear lacquer and displays the signature S.E. Shires ornate floral engraving, giving the instrument the elegant appearance associated with Shires Custom Series trombones.
Unlike the modular Q Series, the K30 is not a modular trombone. The bell is permanently soldered to the valve section and the leadpipe is not threaded or removable. This approach reflects the traditional construction used by trombone makers for decades prior to the modular innovations developed in the 1990s by Steve Shires and Gary Greenhoe.
For many players there is something refreshing about this design philosophy. The instrument is simply built to play beautifully as it is, without the temptation to endlessly experiment with interchangeable bells, leadpipes, or valve sections.
Player Perspective
Players familiar with Shires instruments will immediately recognize the distinctive Shires playing feel. The K30 carries unmistakable Shires DNA in its response, balance, and tonal character.
The valve section is essentially the same open-wrap rotary design found on many Custom Series and Q30YR models, offering smooth response and excellent airflow.
The handslide is built to the same specifications as the Shires Custom Series TW47 slide:
• .547 bore
• Yellow brass outer tubes
• Nickel silver oversleeves
• Nickel silver end crook
• Standard slide weight
• TW47 wide slide width providing additional neck clearance
This wide slide geometry is favored by many players because it provides a comfortable playing position and relaxed ergonomics.
In performance, the K30 offers a balanced combination of warmth, clarity, and projection, making it well suited for band, orchestra, chamber music, and advanced student use.
Included Accessories
This instrument includes:
• Laskey #5 large shank mouthpiece
• Black nylon hard-shell zipper case with backpack straps and side pocket
The case design is noticeably lighter than many traditional molded trombone cases, including the Shires Q30 case, making it easier for students to carry between rehearsals, school, and lessons. S.E. Shires was thoughtful in this design, providing a case that offers solid protection while remaining comfortable for daily use on campus or during travel.
Looking for Discount or Cost-Saving Opportunities?
Many players reduce the cost of upgrading by taking advantage of free shipping and trade-in options available through The Brass Exchange.
Free Shipping on Telephone Orders
This S.E. Shires K30 qualifies for free FedEx shipping within the lower 48 United States when ordered by telephone.
Each instrument is carefully packed and inspected before shipment to ensure safe delivery and proper setup.
Trade-In Shipping Included
If you have another instrument you would like to trade toward this trombone, we are happy to help.
When completing a purchase, FedEx shipping for your trade-in instrument is also included at no cost.
👉 Get started by completing our Trade-In Form and we will evaluate your instrument to help determine the best upgrade options.
Why Players Trust The Brass Exchange
The Brass Exchange has been an authorized S.E. Shires Pro Shop dealer since 2012 and has served thousands of professional players, educators, and advancing students.
Over the past decade we have also researched, photographed, and documented hundreds of S.E. Shires trombones as part of our growing historical archive.
This archive provides players with a unique resource to study and compare Shires models from different eras, helping musicians make informed decisions when selecting an instrument.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
What makes the K30 different from the Shires Q Series?
The K30 uses traditional construction with a permanently attached bell section and fixed leadpipe. Q Series instruments use a modular system that allows bells, leadpipes, and valve sections to be changed.
Is the K30 similar to Custom Series Shires trombones?
Yes. The bell taper, slide geometry, and valve section design all draw heavily from Shires Custom Series design principles.
Who is the K30 designed for?
The K30 is ideal for advancing students, college players, and musicians who want the characteristic Shires sound and build quality without the complexity of a fully modular system.
Condition & Availability
This S.E. Shires K30 tenor trombone, introduced in 2016, includes the full factory warranty.
The instrument is in stock unless otherwise noted, and each trombone is inspected here before shipment to ensure proper playability and setup.
Next Steps
Considering upgrading your current trombone?
Trade-ins are welcome and we frequently help players offset the cost of a new instrument through our trade program.
👉 Complete our Trade-In Form to begin the process.
📚 You can also explore our Archive of Sold S.E. Shires trombones, where we have documented hundreds of Shires instruments over the past decade for players researching these models.
