Overview
This Shires Custom .500 bore jazz trombone represents a rare and highly individualized configuration built for one of The Brass Exchange's longtime customers. Approximately six years old at the time of documentation, the instrument remained with its original owner and was preserved in exceptionally clean condition throughout.
The centerpiece of this build is the uncommon 2GYLW8 bell configuration. The bell stem is constructed from gold brass while the 8-inch bell flare utilizes yellow brass. The "2" designation identifies an unsoldered bell rim, a design concept associated with many of the classic vintage Conn trombones that continue to influence jazz trombone design today.
Combined with a .500 bore standard-weight gold brass slide, the overall playing concept closely resembles the specifications and response associated with a vintage Conn 6H. Players familiar with classic Conn jazz trombones will immediately recognize the familiar balance, flexibility, and tonal character.
The instrument included a removable leadpipe system and a black Cronkhite two-piece travel gig bag.
Condition Summary
Condition was excellent overall and reflected careful single-owner ownership.
The instrument remained in original lacquer and showed only minor cosmetic lacquer wear on one outer slide tube. The wear was minimal and consistent with normal use.
No significant damage, repairs, structural concerns, or prior accident history were noted. The bell section remained exceptionally clean and retained its original appearance throughout.
The handslide was one of the standout features of the instrument and delivered the smooth, responsive action expected from a professional-level Shires Custom trombone.
Player Perspective
This configuration will feel immediately familiar to players who appreciate the classic Conn 6H concept but desire the flexibility and craftsmanship of the Shires Custom platform.
The combination of gold brass and yellow brass within the bell construction creates a remarkably complex tonal palette. The sound contains rich overtones, warmth, and color while maintaining the projection and clarity required for jazz ensemble, commercial performance, chamber music, and solo work.
Compared to many small-bore trombones, the two-tone bell configuration produces a particularly interesting blend of warmth and brilliance. The result is a sound that stands apart from more conventional yellow brass or gold brass bell designs.
The handslide response is quick, efficient, and highly refined, making the instrument equally comfortable in lead, section, and solo applications.
Any player with experience on a vintage Conn 6H will likely feel comfortable immediately. The instrument offers a familiar balance of flexibility, response, and tonal complexity while benefiting from modern Shires craftsmanship and modular design.
Historical Perspective
One of the defining characteristics of the Shires Custom Series has always been the ability to create highly specialized instruments tailored to individual player preferences.
While Shires is often associated with large-bore orchestral trombones, the company has also produced a variety of small-bore and jazz-oriented custom configurations that remain highly sought after by experienced players.
This example illustrates that philosophy perfectly. Rather than simply replicating a traditional jazz trombone, the build combines classic Conn-inspired design concepts with modern Shires manufacturing and modular flexibility.
The use of the rare 2GYLW8 bell further distinguishes the instrument from standard production models and demonstrates the level of customization available through the Shires Custom platform.
Value Perspective
Specialized Shires Custom jazz trombones remain relatively uncommon compared to the company's orchestral models.
As a result, highly customized examples often attract significant interest from players seeking something beyond standard production instruments. Unique bell combinations, modular components, and custom specifications can be particularly desirable among experienced performers.
The rare 2GYLW8 bell configuration, combined with single-owner provenance, original condition, and professional-level components, makes this instrument an excellent example of the flexibility and craftsmanship that helped establish the Shires Custom Series reputation.
Includes
• Shires Custom .500 Bore Jazz Trombone
• Rare 2GYLW8 Two-Tone Bell
• Removable Leadpipe
• Black Cronkhite Two-Piece Travel Gig Bag
Questions Players Often Ask
What does 2GYLW8 mean?
The bell utilizes a gold brass stem, yellow brass 8-inch flare, and an unsoldered bell rim. The configuration combines different materials and construction techniques to create a unique tonal response.
Is this similar to a Conn 6H?
Yes. The overall playing concept, .500 bore slide, and tonal approach closely resemble the classic Conn 6H design that many jazz trombonists know and appreciate.
What are the benefits of an unsoldered bell rim?
Many players feel unsoldered rims contribute additional resonance, flexibility, and complexity to the sound. Vintage Conn trombones helped popularize this design concept.
How was the slide condition?
Excellent. The handslide was one of the strongest features of the instrument and delivered the smooth response expected from a professional-level Shires Custom trombone.
Is this a professional-level jazz trombone?
Absolutely. This custom configuration was originally built for an experienced player and offers the performance, craftsmanship, and responsiveness expected from a professional Shires Custom instrument.
Research & Historical Reference
This Shires Custom .500 Bore Jazz Trombone remains published as a research and historical reference for musicians, collectors, educators, and prospective sellers researching custom Shires jazz trombone configurations.
Rare custom builds such as this demonstrate the versatility of the Shires Custom platform and provide valuable insight into how different materials, bell designs, and modular components influence instrument performance and player preference.
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🏛️ Since 2010, The Brass Exchange has specialized in professional, vintage, collectible, and pre-owned brass instruments. As an Authorized S.E. Shires Dealer and Service Center since 2012, we have assisted musicians, educators, collectors, institutions, and estates throughout the United States and around the world. Our Historical Reference Library helps players research instrument specifications, production eras, condition examples, and market trends while preserving the history of significant brass instruments that have passed through our shop.