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This instrument has been sold and is now part of The Brass Exchange Archive of Sold instruments.
The page is preserved as a historical and educational reference for players, collectors, and researchers exploring S.E. Shires jazz trombone designs.
✦ Historical Perspective
The S.E. Shires MD+ (.508 bore) is the Mike Davis Artist Model, developed for players seeking the agility and clarity of a straight-ahead jazz trombone combined with the refinement of a top-tier custom build. Over time, the MD+ has earned a reputation as one of the most versatile professional .508-bore instruments, favored for its centered response, quick articulation, and balanced tonal profile.
This particular example is estimated to have been built approximately 6–10 years prior to its sale, based on its serial number range in the 8000s. Instruments from this early Custom Brass period are often noted for their consistency and attention to detail, reflecting a formative era in modern Shires production before later design evolutions.
The horn features a 7.75-inch yellow-brass bell with deep floral-style engraving and an earlier-style Shires counterweight — a detail many experienced MD+ players associate with the model’s classic feel. The dedicated MD+ tuning slide and modified hand-slide bracing contribute to improved balance and comfort, particularly important for extended jazz and commercial playing sessions. The slide construction pairs nickel-silver outer tubes with a yellow-brass end crook, offering a blend of warmth, projection, and clarity.
From a condition standpoint at the time of sale, the instrument showed only minor lacquer loss at the outer-slide crook with light surface oxidation. This cosmetic wear was typical for a professionally used jazz instrument and had no impact on playability or structural integrity. No red rot or pitting was present.
The instrument was originally accompanied by a Shires-logo Marco Magi case and one removable leadpipe.
✅ Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
Who is S.E. Shires?
S.E. Shires is an American brass-instrument maker founded in 1995 by Steve Shires. The company became widely respected for its hand-crafted custom trombones and has continued professional production in Holliston, Massachusetts since becoming part of Eastman Music Company in 2012.
What makes early Shires MD+ trombones desirable?
Earlier MD+ builds are often valued for their consistent craftsmanship, classic balance, and tonal focus. Many players feel these instruments represent a refined yet straightforward interpretation of the .508-bore jazz trombone concept.
Who is Mike Davis?
Mike Davis is a respected jazz and commercial trombonist known for agile lead playing and a long career in touring, Broadway, and studio work. The MD+ model was developed in collaboration with him to meet the demands of professional .508-bore jazz players.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This S.E. Shires MD+ has been sold and is no longer available for purchase. Archive of Sold listings on The Brass Exchange are maintained as historical references and may reflect instruments that are no longer in inventory. Active listings are clearly labeled on current product pages.
📌 Archive Reference & Next Steps
This archived Shires MD+ listing is shown to support research, valuation, and historical comparison for players and collectors.
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