This S.E. Shires 2YM tenor bell section features an 8.5" medium-weight yellow brass flare with an unsoldered bead wire, a hallmark of Shires’ #2 bell family. It delivers a broad, colorful sound inspired by classic Conn 88H instruments and is often compared to the bell used on the Shires Alessi Artist Model — rich in tone yet responsive and flexible.
Compatible with all S.E. Shires Custom Series and Q-Series valve sections and tuning slides, the 2YM bell is a versatile choice for players shaping their setup around a traditional, orchestral-style sound concept.
This bell section is now part of our Archive of Sold instruments, provided as a reference for trombonists researching Shires modular components and historical design choices.
FAQ 🤔
What does “2YM” mean in the Shires lineup?
The “2” refers to Shires’ #2 bell family, which is defined by an unsoldered bell rim — a design inspired by vintage Conn trombones. This rim style is used across all #2 bells regardless of alloy (yellow, gold, or rose brass) or gauge (lightweight, medium, or standard), and it appears throughout the Shires line: small-bore jazz tenors, .525 medium-bores, .547 large-bore tenors, and even 9.5" .562-bore bass trombones.
The “Y” designates yellow brass, while the “M” stands for medium weight, providing a warm, resonant core with slightly more projection and stability than lightweight bells while maintaining flexibility.
How does an unsoldered bead wire affect the sound?
An unsoldered rim allows the bell edge to vibrate more freely, which can give the instrument a more open, colorful, and responsive feel compared to a soldered-rim bell.
Is the 2YM bell similar to the Conn 88H or the Shires Alessi model?
Yes. The 2YM bell is often chosen by players who want a tone reminiscent of the classic Conn 88H, and it’s closely related to the bell used in the Shires Alessi Artist Model.
Will a 2YM bell fit my current Shires setup?
Absolutely. All Shires Custom and Q-Series bells are fully compatible with Shires valve sections and tuning slides.
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