✦ Historical Perspective
This Conn 62H bass trombone was built during the early 1970s shortly after Conn relocated production from Elkhart, Indiana to Abilene, Texas. These early Abilene instruments remain particularly interesting to players and collectors because many still retained tooling, design influence, and component characteristics carried over directly from the Elkhart era.
The Conn 62H itself remains one of the most respected vintage bass trombone designs ever produced for commercial and studio playing. Unlike later large-frame orchestral bass trombones, the 62H was designed around agility, clarity, and efficiency while still delivering the broad tonal core associated with classic Conn bass trombones.
One of the defining features of the model is its T.I.S. (Tuning-In-Slide) design. Instead of tuning at the bell section, the tuning mechanism is built directly into the handslide. Combined with the 9.5-inch rose brass bell, the result is a uniquely resonant and immediate playing experience that many players still seek out today.
Originally, the 62H used a dependent valve system with roller-ball linkage. This example has been professionally converted to a more modern split-valve setup allowing standard Bb/F/D operation. The work appears to have been completed at a very high level and significantly improves modern playability and low-register flexibility while preserving the instrument’s original character.
We completed full shop service including chemical cleaning and replacement of the original inner slide tubes with new Yamaha tubes after the originals became too heavily worn and pitted for long-term use. The result was a dramatically improved slide feel while maintaining the horn’s broad Conn tonal profile.
This model accepts a standard large-shank bass trombone mouthpiece and includes a newer-style Conn bass trombone case.
✦ Player Perspective
From a playing standpoint, the Conn 62H occupies a very interesting place historically between older compact bass trombone concepts and the larger symphonic bass trombones that became more common later.
The rose brass bell gives the instrument warmth and complexity, while the TIS design keeps the response immediate and centered. Compared to many modern bass trombones, the 62H often feels quicker and more agile without losing depth in the low register.
Many jazz, commercial, and studio bass trombone players continue to appreciate these instruments because they project clearly without becoming overly heavy or resistant.
The modern Bb/F/D valve conversion on this example also makes the instrument considerably more practical for contemporary playing situations while preserving the original Conn feel that made the 62H desirable in the first place.
📸 Photography From Our Early Archive
These photos come from the earlier years of The Brass Exchange and reflect the evolution of our instrument photography over time. While our imaging methods have continued to improve, many of these historical archive listings remain important references for players researching vintage brass instruments, Conn bass trombones, and rare transitional-era models.
❓ Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
What makes the Conn 62H unique compared to later bass trombones?
The Conn 62H combines a lighter, more agile playing feel with the broad sound associated with vintage Conn bass trombones. Many players appreciate the balance between clarity, warmth, and efficiency.
What is the T.I.S. system?
T.I.S. stands for “Tuning In Slide.” Instead of tuning at the bell section, the tuning mechanism is integrated into the handslide. Many players feel this contributes to the instrument’s fast response and unique resonance.
Was the valve section original?
No. This example was professionally modified from the original dependent setup into a more modern Bb/F/D split-valve configuration for improved flexibility and usability.
Why are early Abilene Conn instruments still respected?
Many early Abilene-era Conn instruments retained tooling and design influence from the Elkhart years. As a result, some players feel these transitional instruments preserve much of the earlier Conn tonal character and build philosophy.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This Conn 62H bass trombone has been sold and is now shown here as part of our historical archive of professional and vintage brass instruments. Archive pages like this continue to serve as reference resources for players researching vintage Conn bass trombones, TIS-era designs, and modified commercial bass trombone setups.
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https://www.thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
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