The S.E. Shires Q36GA Bass Trombone delivers professional-level performance with the reliability and value of the Q-Series line.
Built in 2024, this particular example was an open-box store demo, played only in our shop, and included all original accessories and Shires factory warranty.
While it is now out of stock, it remains a top choice for serious bass trombonists seeking a versatile and powerful instrument.
The Q36GA features a 9.5″ gold-brass bell (QBG) with soldered rim and Type II taper, producing a broad, warm, colorful tone that blends beautifully in orchestral sections yet projects with authority.
The instrument uses an independent axial-flow valve system (Bb/F/Gb/D) for an open, smooth low-register response with minimal resistance — a popular alternative to traditional rotary valves among today’s professionals.
A yellow-brass tuning slide and the robust Q62 standard-weight bass slide (.562″ bore) round out the setup.
The slide ships with three removable leadpipes and uses nickel-silver end-crook tubing for stability and clarity.
The horn includes all original Shires accessories: mouthpiece, care kit, lubricants, and protective case.
A notable ergonomic improvement on this model is the adjustable thumb bar beneath the F-valve lever, now standard on Shires Custom-Series bass trombones.
This adjustment makes the instrument more comfortable for a wide range of hand sizes and solves common ergonomic challenges faced by bass-trombonists.
Although part of the Q-Series, the Q36GA is fully compatible with Shires Custom-Series components — players can swap bells, slides, or valves as their needs evolve.
⚡ Currently out of stock.
Contact us 📩 to reserve or pre-order your Q36GA bass trombone and discuss leadpipe or component-upgrade options.
Additional shipments are expected in 2025.
Q: How does the gold-brass bell affect sound compared to yellow brass?
A: Gold-brass bells (higher copper content) produce a warmer, broader sound with a rounder edge, while yellow-brass bells give a brighter core and slightly more focused projection.
Q: Axial-Flow vs. Rotor valves — what’s the difference?
A: Axial-Flow (Thayer-type) valves allow a straighter airflow path, providing a freer, more open blow in the low register.
Rotor valves introduce slightly more resistance, which some players prefer for centering and articulation.
Both are available across Shires models and are interchangeable.
Q: Are Q-Series components compatible with Shires Custom-Series?
A: Yes. The Q-Series uses the same interface as the Custom-Series, allowing easy swapping of bells, valves, slides, and tuning slides.
Q: Do Custom-Series leadpipes fit the Q62 slide?
A: Absolutely. The Q62 slide accepts both Q-Series and Custom-Series leadpipes, letting players fine-tune their sound with different tapers and materials (brass, gold-brass, nickel-silver, sterling-silver; standard or long lengths).
Q: Who is the Q36GA best suited for?
A: It’s an excellent choice for advanced students entering conservatory, working professionals, and educators who want the sound and feel of a premium Shires instrument at a more accessible price point.
⚡ Currently out of stock — next shipment expected in 2025.
Contact us 📩 to reserve or pre-order the Q36GA Bass Trombone and secure priority delivery.
🔄 Considering a trade-in or selling your existing Shires components?
Start your trade-in here ✍️ — we accept full or partial trades toward Shires trombones and components.
