Conn 78H Vintage 1949 SN 385581, Made in Elkhart, IN. Has 8.5" Yellow Brass Bell with unsoldered rim. Most of the 78H models we’ve seen over the years had an 8" bell, so this one is a real rarity. It features a .522 bore gold brass handslide with nickel silver endcrook and takes a small shank trombone mouthpiece. The slide was built without a lock, true to original specs.
This horn was designed for versatility—it plays big or small, and fits beautifully in orchestra pops, concert band, or jazz settings. It would make a superb medium bore jazz horn, particularly for soloists or those working in acoustic ensembles. The tone is full and projecting—larger than a typical small bore horn—yet not so big that it gets buried among brighter saxes and trumpets.
Models like the Conn 78H and Bach 36 were favored by orchestral players throughout the 1940s and early 50s—right before the introduction of the 88H. Even today, this model holds up remarkably well for all-around performance needs.
This example has been fully refinished with modern baked-on lacquer and shows no signs of previous damage. Slide tubes are in excellent shape with no plating defects—no visible signs of typical "Conn Wear." It plays cleanly and freely.
Includes a lightweight modern case.
Q: How does the Conn 78H compare to a Conn 6H or 88H?
A: The 78H fits squarely in the middle—offering more projection and fullness than the .500" bore 6H, but more compact feel and agility compared to the .547" 88H. It's one of the most versatile medium bore trombones Conn ever made.
This Conn 78H has been sold and is now shown here as a historical reference for Conn enthusiasts and collectors.
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