This S.E. Shires Custom Series Bass Trombone, built in Boston, Massachusetts, represents one of the finest examples of Shires craftsmanship before the company’s transition to Eastman ownership. It is a single-owner professional instrument kept in mint condition and maintained with exceptional care.
The Brass Exchange has been an authorized S.E. Shires dealer since 2012, trusted by hundreds of players worldwide for guidance, trade-ins, and professional setup of both new and pre-owned Shires instruments. This particular bass trombone reflects the same level of precision and playability that defines the brand’s legacy.
The setup features a BII 7YM 9.5" yellow-brass bell, paired with an independent Axial Flow valve system in Bb/Gb/D tuning, offering the broad flexibility and open feel Shires basses are known for. An additional second valve G-slide is included, allowing Bollinger tuning for players who prefer that extended configuration.
The B62 straight-bore handslide is flawless—light, balanced, and perfectly aligned. All lacquer is original, and the overall appearance is near-new with no dents or wear. The horn also includes an aftermarket adjustable thumb-rest bar, a full set of four removable leadpipes, and a Marcus Bonna backpack-style case.
This configuration makes for an exceptionally versatile bass trombone suited for orchestral, band, or chamber work—equally at home in traditional classical literature or modern ensemble performance.
FAQs
Q: What makes the Axial Flow valve system special?
A: The Shires Axial Flow design provides a more open, resonant feel compared to traditional rotors. It minimizes resistance through the valve section, allowing the player to maintain consistent tone and projection across both open and valve registers.
Q: What is Bollinger tuning, and why is it useful?
A: Bollinger tuning uses a G-slide on the second valve instead of the standard D-slide, expanding flexibility for alternate positions and pedal notes. It’s a preferred setup for many orchestral bass trombonists seeking precision in low register response.
Q: How does the BII 7YM bell differ from other Shires bells?
A: The 7YM yellow-brass bell combines clarity and warmth, producing a centered tone that projects easily without harshness. It’s one of Shires’ most balanced bell options for professional orchestral use.
Condition Summary
• BII 7YM 9.5" Yellow-Brass Bell – Original lacquer, near-new appearance
• Independent Axial Flow Valves – Bb/Gb/D tuning plus Bollinger G-slide
• B62 Straight-Bore Slide – Aligned, smooth, and responsive
• Four Interchangeable Leadpipes – For tonal customization
• Marcus Bonna Backpack Case – Excellent condition, fits securely
• Aftermarket Thumb-Rest Bar – Comfortable, ergonomic design
This S.E. Shires Custom Bass Trombone has now been sold and is preserved as part of our Archive of Sold Instruments, serving as a modern reference for professional Shires bass trombones.
Looking for something similar? Browse our current trombone inventory 🔎
📚 Interested in the history and evolution of S.E. Shires bass trombones? Explore our Shires Historical Archive to learn more about past models and configurations built in Boston before the Eastman era.
✍️ Do you have a Shires trombone you’d like to sell, trade, or have appraised? Contact us for professional evaluation and trade-in assistance.
