🏛️ Historic Trombone Archive
This listing is part of The Brass Exchange Historic Trombone Archive, a curated reference collection documenting significant models from every era of brass instrument design. Each archived page remains online to assist musicians, collectors, and researchers in identifying and understanding the evolution of classic trombone craftsmanship.
📸 Photography Note
The images on this page are part of our early fine-art photography series at The Brass Exchange. These photos capture the authentic condition and character of each instrument, preserving them as visual records of mid-century trombone design and finish. While newer listings reflect more recent studio techniques, these earlier images remain an important part of our photographic heritage.
The Conn 78H Deluxe, built in 1951, is one of Conn’s finest mid-century tenor trombones, designed for professional use during what many consider the golden era of Conn’s Elkhart factory. This example has been preserved with remarkable care and remains in excellent playing condition.
The horn features an 8" yellow brass bell with Conn’s old-style engraving and classic balance weight, all finished in lacquer. The bell has never been creased or neglected, and the bell-to-slide alignment remains perfectly straight. The handslide is a .522 bore gold brass slide, adding warmth and depth to the instrument’s voice while maintaining excellent projection and focus.
A particularly unique feature on this 78H is the removable leadpipe. This leadpipe was professionally dialed in years ago for a specific style and tonal response, and it performs exceptionally well. The slide itself is in superb condition, with no defects on the inner or outer tubes, and plays as smoothly as possible. No service or clean-up is required — this trombone is completely ready for professional use right now.
Cosmetically, the lacquer is in very good shape for its age, showing that it has been well maintained over the decades. The original case is no longer with the instrument, but it is pictured here in a comparable Yamaha tenor case. If preferred, other case options are available and can be substituted upon request.
For players seeking a vintage Conn with both character and reliability, this 78H represents one of the best examples available. Built during Conn’s most respected years, it offers a rich, colorful sound with all the playability a professional could demand.
FAQ 🤔
Q: How does the Conn 78H compare to other Conn models like the 6H or 88H?
A: The 78H falls between the small bore 6H (.500) and the larger 88H (.547). With its .522 bore gold brass slide, it offers more depth and power than a 6H while retaining agility, making it highly versatile.
Q: What is unique about the removable leadpipe?
A: This leadpipe was customized years ago for a particular sound and style. It adds precision and flexibility, and being removable allows for adjustments or replacement in the future.
Q: What condition is the slide in?
A: The slide is excellent — smooth, quiet, and free of defects on both inners and outers. It plays at the highest professional standard.
Q: Is the original case included?
A: The original Conn case is no longer with the horn. A Yamaha tenor case is pictured, and alternate case options can be arranged by request.
Q: Who would benefit most from this trombone?
A: The 78H is a pro-level tenor trombone suited for advanced students, jazz musicians, and professional players looking for a vintage Conn with character and projection.
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