This Conn 8H Elkhart trombone (SN C78020) was built around 1963 and features a Larry Minick removable bell modification, making it a truly rare and collectible professional horn. The bell section includes Minick's custom fittings, known for precision engineering and flexibility in modular setups.
This instrument was previously owned by a professional Los Angeles studio trombonist who recorded on hundreds of major film soundtracks. While the name isn’t listed publicly, chances are you've heard this horn on countless Hollywood productions — a real piece of brass-playing history.
Specs include a traditional 8.5" rose brass bell, straight .547 bore slide, and original Conn Elkhart craftsmanship. The slide is outstanding, with no red rot, no inner tube plating loss, and perfect mechanical function. The bell is unlacquered, giving the horn a warm, open tone with natural resonance. The response is quick, vibrant, and expressive — one of the best straight 8H setups you’ll find.
We performed a full shop service, including a chemical bath and complete mechanical check. The instrument is in perfect playing condition and comes with a black cordura-style gig bag.
What makes a Minick Conn 8H different from a stock model?
Larry Minick was a legendary brass technician whose modifications brought new life to classic designs. His removable bell systems were prized for their precision, lighter weight, and tonal flexibility — ideal for studio or travel work. Combined with the original Elkhart Conn build, this horn offers a unique blend of historical craftsmanship and modern playability. Many top-tier professionals sought Minick-modified horns for their reliability and enhanced feel.
This page is now part of our Archive of Sold Instruments.
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