This vintage Conn 8H large bore tenor trombone, serial number 528881, was made in 1955 during the Elkhart era—a highly prized period for Conn instruments. The 8H was manufactured in Elkhart in two key waves: 1913–1934 and again from 1954–1974. While Conn still produces the 8H model today, this early 1955 version is markedly different from its later and modern counterparts.
All 8H models share the iconic 8.5" rose brass bell, but this 1950s build features an unsoldered bell rim, a trait that provides a slightly broader and more flexible tonal resonance compared to modern soldered rims. Other defining features of this era include heavier construction, a nickel silver tuning slide guard, and no slide lock—all elements that distinguish it from later 1960s production.
This horn is equipped with its original Remington taper leadpipe and comes with a genuine Remington mouthpiece, perfectly matched to this bore size and taper. The slide is original, with smooth plating wear on the inner tubes. We have preserved the original parts to maintain historical integrity and avoid modern tube mismatches, which often don’t play as well due to subtle differences in tolerances.
This is a true one-owner instrument, and the previous owner had it professionally overhauled and re-lacquered. One small cosmetic brass patch has been applied near the bell rim wire bead—barely visible from the outside but present on the inner bell. The horn plays exactly as intended and has not been altered with non-original components.
Included is a lightweight Protec-style case in pristine condition and the original Remington mouthpiece. This is a rare opportunity to own a mid-1950s Conn 8H in excellent playing condition, perfect for collectors, serious players, or those exploring the sonic legacy of the Elkhart era.
This Vintage Conn 8H has been sold and is now shown here as a reference in our Archive of Sold Instruments.
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✅ How does an unsoldered bell rim affect the sound of a trombone?
An unsoldered rim allows the bell to vibrate more freely, producing a slightly broader, more open sound with increased tonal flexibility. Many players describe these vintage bells as having a more "alive" or "organic" response. In contrast, modern soldered rims tend to focus the tone slightly more, with increased projection and resistance.
