Overview
This S.E. Shires Custom Series bass trombone features a 1G gold brass 9.5" bell, TruBore independent valve section pitched Bb/F/Gb/D, dual bore handslide (.562–.578), and Marco Magi Italian hard case with the Shires logo.
The instrument is approximately eight years old and remains in excellent playing condition.
This configuration represents a fully professional modular Shires setup. The instrument includes a factory-installed adjustable thumb rest bar, which can be repositioned or removed to suit the player’s preference. It also includes a standard taper gold brass main tuning slide and three removable Shires leadpipes, allowing players to fine-tune response and resistance.
This is a serious Custom Series orchestral bass trombone setup built around one of Shires’ most respected valve systems.
🎧 Player Perspective
From a playing standpoint, this setup delivers exactly what many professional bass trombonists are looking for.
The dual bore handslide (.562–.578) paired with the TruBore valve system creates an extremely open feel with very low resistance through the valve register. The result is a massive, dark orchestral sound that remains stable and centered throughout the full range of the instrument.
When pushed, the horn produces the kind of massive wall of sound that great bass trombones are known for — the kind of sound that fills the room and raises the hair on the back of your neck when you’re standing in front of it.
The 1G gold brass bell contributes warmth and depth to the tone. Compared with yellow brass bells, gold brass slightly reduces the high-frequency overtones, producing a broader and more complex tonal color.
The slide on this instrument is exceptional — very fast, well aligned, and about as responsive as a bass trombone slide can be.
For players performing in:
• orchestra
• wind ensemble
• studio work
• large jazz ensembles
this setup delivers the kind of powerful foundation sound that anchors an entire ensemble.
Condition Summary
This Shires Custom Series bass trombone is in excellent playing condition.
The instrument has been fully inspected here at The Brass Exchange, and no service was required.
Key condition notes:
• Never damaged or structurally repaired
• Slide alignment is excellent with extremely fast action
• TruBore valves operate smoothly with perfect mechanical function
• Some lacquer wear on outer slide tubes and grip areas from normal playing
• Small lacquer wear spot on the bell stem
The bell stem lacquer wear appears to be thin factory lacquer that wore through over time, rather than evidence of dent work.
These cosmetic details are typical for a professional instrument that has been played regularly and do not affect performance.
Most importantly — the instrument plays beautifully.
⚙ Understanding Shires TruBore Valves
This instrument features Shires’ TruBore valve system, available exclusively in the Custom Series lineup.
Unlike traditional rotor valves, the TruBore design maintains a true straight-through airflow path, resulting in:
• extremely open airflow
• seamless transitions between open and valve notes
• consistent tone and response across the instrument
Many professional players choose TruBore valves for their ability to preserve the natural resonance of the instrument while maintaining excellent mechanical reliability.
Players interested in learning more about Shires valve types can read our detailed guide here:
Pricing Context
In 2026, a new Shires Custom Series bass trombone configured similarly to this model typically sells for around $7,195 or more, depending on options.
This pre-owned example represents a strong opportunity to acquire a professional Custom Series Shires bass trombone at a meaningful savings — with the added advantage of immediate availability.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
What makes the Shires Custom Series different from the Q Series?
Custom Series instruments are fully modular and built to order, allowing players to select bell alloys, valve types, tuning slides, leadpipes, and handslides.
What are TruBore valves known for?
TruBore valves create a straight-through airflow path with very low resistance, producing an open response and smooth transitions through the valve register.
Is a dual bore handslide common on bass trombone?
Yes. The .562–.578 dual bore design offers stability and power while keeping articulation responsive.
📦 Shipping & Order Fulfillment
Add this instrument to your cart and complete checkout securely online.
Orders typically ship same or next business day via FedEx.
International buyers are welcome — please contact us for a shipping quote prior to purchase.
All instruments are professionally packed and fully insured for safe delivery.
📣 Considering an Upgrade?
Looking to upgrade to a professional bass trombone like this Shires Custom setup?
We frequently accept:
• trombone trade-ins
• outright purchases
• consignment instruments
✍️ Contact us for a valuation and explore your options.
🔎 Explore More Shires Trombones
📌 Browse our current trombone inventory
https://thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
You can also explore the Archive of Sold instruments to compare previous Shires modular configurations and learn how different setups perform.
🏅 Since 2012 The Brass Exchange has been an Authorized S.E. Shires Pro Shop, specializing in professional trombones and modular components inspected and photographed in-house.
