This S.E. Shires 7GLW tenor bell is an 8.5" lightweight gold brass flare, built during the company’s early Boston years before the Eastman acquisition. Stamped “S.E. Shires U.S.A.”, this bell reflects the original Custom Shop production that established Shires as one of the most respected trombone makers in the world.
Condition-wise, it shows some lacquer wear from use but no dents or dings, and it plays beautifully. The bell has received full shop service including a chemical bath, ensuring it is clean, responsive, and ready for performance. It remains fully compatible with all current Shires valve sections and tuning slides.
Compared to yellow brass, gold brass has a higher copper content, which produces a warmer, richer sound with more color and depth. Many players choose gold brass bells for their ability to hold warmth even at high volume levels.
This model also uses a lightweight construction, allowing the bell to vibrate more freely. Lightweight bells tend to respond faster and feel more resonant, making them a favorite choice for players seeking flexibility and ease in dynamic control.
The Brass Exchange is proud to be an Authorized S.E. Shires Pro Shop, giving players access to Boston-built Custom Series bells and components. Unlike standard Shires dealers who can only supply the Q Series, Pro Shops specialize in the full Custom Shop line, helping players refine their setups at the highest level.
This 7GLW bell has since been sold and is now preserved in our Archive of Sold Instruments & Components as a reference for musicians and collectors researching Shires options.
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