Conn 78H, vintage 1959, Elkhart Indiana production — a standout mid-bore tenor trombone in truly exceptional condition. This example is one of the cleanest we’ve seen since the founding of The Brass Exchange. Features an 8" yellow brass bell and a standard weight .522 bore slide, offering a perfect balance between agility and warmth. It plays with clarity, color, and surprising power for a mid-bore horn.
Unlike many Conn slides from the era, this one shows no signs of chrome loss or “Conn wear” on the inner tubes. The slide has been fully serviced, is properly aligned, and plays effortlessly with a light and responsive feel.
The Conn 78H is often seen as the bridge between smaller jazz horns and large-bore symphonic tenors. It’s ideally suited for pit orchestras, musicals, chamber work, or jazz players seeking a broader tone without the bulk of a .547 bore. This instrument is dent-free and shows no signs of trauma or heavy repair — a rare find for a 1950s Elkhart horn.
Includes the original Conn case, also in excellent condition.
What makes the Conn 78H different from the 88H?
While both are Elkhart classics, the 78H features a .522 bore slide compared to the 88H’s .547. This makes the 78H lighter, more nimble, and better suited for musical theater, chamber ensembles, or players transitioning from small-bore horns who want more depth without committing to a large bore setup.
Is the Conn 78H considered a professional horn?
Yes — although it was originally marketed in the mid-range, the 78H’s quality, design, and performance make it a serious professional-level instrument. Many working trombonists use vintage 78H models in pro settings due to their tonal richness and excellent response.
How rare is a 1959 Conn 78H in mint condition?
Extremely rare. While Conn produced many 78H models in the Elkhart Era, few remain in this level of original, dent-free condition. Most vintage models show signs of chrome loss on the inner slide — but this one is clean, tight, and ready to play.
This Conn 78H has been sold and is now displayed as a reference in our historical archive.
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