This Yamaha YSL-842 large-bore tenor trombone (SN 003164) dates to the 1980s — the pre-Xeno era of Yamaha professional trombones.
It features an 8.5" yellow-brass bell, a .547 large-bore standard-weight slide, and a compact open-wrap F-attachment rotor.
The horn accepts any standard large-shank trombone mouthpiece.
This example retained its original lacquer and parts.
During its time in our shop it received a full professional service — including chemical bath, rotor and slide adjustment, new pads and felts — ensuring it was in proper playing condition at the time of sale.
Although the instrument showed typical age-related lacquer wear on the slide grip and a few cosmetic spots, there were no structural issues or service needs affecting playability.
One inner-slide tube displayed minor plating wear near the stocking but still delivered smooth, responsive action when properly lubricated.
For players in the 1980s and 1990s, the YSL-842 was regarded as a dependable professional-level large-bore tenor with F-attachment — an excellent choice for advancing students or working players who wanted a reliable horn without the premium cost of a new Bach, Shires, or Edwards.
This particular example represented solid value for anyone ready to step up to a full-size large-bore F-trigger tenor trombone.
It was sold with its original Yamaha case and a suitable mouthpiece.
Today it appears here as part of our Archive of Sold Instruments, provided as a reference for trombonists, collectors, and researchers interested in Yamaha’s pre-Xeno professional lineup.
Common Questions
Q – What makes the YSL-842 notable compared to later Yamaha Xeno models?
A – The 842 represents Yamaha’s first-generation large-bore F-attachment design.
It has a slightly more compact wrap and a straightforward traditional rotor.
The later Xeno models introduced refinements in bracing, bell metallurgy, and rotor geometry, but many players still appreciate the earlier 842 for its direct response and classic Yamaha reliability.
Q – Is the 842 a good choice for advancing students?
A – Yes. It was originally designed as a professional model but remains a very approachable step-up horn for players moving from intermediate straight tenors to a full-size large-bore F-trigger instrument.
Q – How does the original lacquer affect sound or playability?
A – The age-related cosmetic wear seen on many vintage 842s does not compromise sound or performance.
When properly serviced, the horn retains its stable response and even tone.
Q – Can current Yamaha mouthpieces and cases fit the 842?
A – Yes. The 842 accepts any standard large-shank mouthpiece and fits comfortably in most modern full-size tenor F-attachment cases.
📌 This YSL-842 has been sold and now appears in our Archive of Sold instruments as a historical reference for musicians and collectors.
🔎 Looking for a similar large-bore F-attachment tenor? Browse our current trombone listings
✍️ Considering selling or trading in your own trombone? Start here

















