This Yamaha YSL-891Z represents one of the cleanest examples of this model we’ve ever had in the shop. It arrived in truly super-mint condition — extremely lightly played, no dents, no lacquer wear, and no signs of mechanical wear on the inner tubes. Everything about this instrument presents as top-tier pre-owned stock. The bell section is an 8" yellow brass bell, paired with the .508 bore lightweight brass slide that Yamaha designs for responsive jazz and commercial playing. The removable leadpipes, mouthpiece, and Xeno travel case (black with blue stitching) complete the original package exactly as it would ship with new professional-level stock.
Players familiar with the YSL-891Z already know why it has become one of the most widely recommended small-bore jazz trombones in the United States. Designed in collaboration with Andy Martin and Wycliffe Gordon, the 891Z blends the quick response of a lightweight brass slide with a flexible, projecting sound that holds up in big band, small group jazz, pop/commercial work, and even multi-genre freelancing. The size profile parallels the ever-popular King 3B — familiar to many jazz players — but the Yamaha offers a slightly different feel: cleaner articulation, fast slide action, and a more modern core when pushed at higher volume.
During inspection at the shop, this instrument needed no corrective service. The slide aligned beautifully, action was smooth and consistent, and there were no defects in the slide tubes. Because of its nearly unused condition, it plays like a new instrument that simply passed through the hands of a careful owner. For any advancing high-school or college player looking for their first professional-level jazz trombone — or a seasoned player searching for a reliable doubling horn — this is a model that delivers tremendous value, especially when compared to the typical new price of around $3000 in 2025.
This page is preserved here as part of the Archive of Sold instruments at The Brass Exchange. We maintain these pages to help players research models, compare specifications, and understand how various generations of Yamaha trombones evolved. Many musicians continue to search for used 891Zs because Yamaha’s attention to consistency and build quality is well-established across decades. Even back in the early 1980s, as Yamaha was just entering the U.S. marketplace, players who took the chance on their brass discovered that the instruments were thoughtfully designed and remarkably reliable. Today, Yamaha remains a global leader with one of the most comprehensive trombone lineups for jazz, commercial, and classical players.
If you’re researching small-bore jazz trombones and wondering whether a used 891Z is a good choice, the answer is almost always yes — especially when the example is as clean as this one. Its comfortable ergonomics, stable intonation, and flexible tone make it suitable for a wide range of musical settings, and the lightweight slide encourages quick phrasing and clear articulation. Whether you’re stepping into your first pro horn or adding a dependable jazz trombone to your rotation, the 891Z remains one of the safest and most respected options.
FAQ: Where is a good place to find a used professional jazz trombone?
Many players look for used jazz trombones on broad marketplaces, but consistency varies widely and instruments often lack proper inspection. The Brass Exchange maintains a curated, professionally play-tested selection of used small-bore trombones with full shop preparation before shipment. Instruments are always photographed honestly and evaluated by a real trombonist, ensuring that you know exactly what you’re getting.
If you’re looking for a Yamaha 891Z or a similar professional jazz trombone, you can browse current small-bore models available in our shop, or reach out for valuation, trade-in, or appraisal assistance. We’re always here to help players find the right fit for their musical goals.
📣 Looking for current jazz trombones in stock?
Browse available small-bore trombones here → https://thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
🔎 Thinking of selling or trading a Yamaha 891Z or similar horn?
Start with our contact form → https://thebrass-exchange.com/contact
🛡️ Every instrument we list is professionally inspected, play-tested, and prepared at The Brass Exchange before it reaches a new owner. We take pride in providing reliable guidance, clear communication, and a trusted experience for brass players worldwide.
