Overview
This Conn 78H (serial number 378317) was built in 1948 during Conn's highly regarded Elkhart era, a period known for exceptional craftsmanship, consistency, and distinctive tonal character.
The 78H represents one of Conn's important medium-bore professional models from a time when .522–.525 bore trombones were widely used across orchestral, commercial, and studio settings. This example features classic art deco-style bell engraving, an 8-inch yellow brass bell with an unsoldered rim, and original lacquer with only modest, honest wear.
The instrument was not over-restored, preserving the original character and visual appeal that many players and collectors value in vintage Conn trombones.
A professional slide rebuild was completed using new inner slide tubes and careful alignment work, resulting in smooth, quiet, and consistent action throughout all positions.
✦ Historical Perspective
The Conn 78H occupies an interesting place within Conn's professional trombone lineup. During the 1940s and 1950s, medium-bore trombones filled an important role between smaller commercial instruments and larger orchestral models.
Many professional musicians favored instruments in the .522-.525 bore range because they offered greater tonal breadth than small-bore jazz trombones while remaining more agile and flexible than larger symphonic designs.
The 78H reflected this philosophy well. It provided players with a versatile instrument capable of adapting to a wide variety of musical situations while retaining the broad, centered sound associated with Conn's Elkhart production years.
Today, surviving examples offer an excellent look into a period when versatility was often valued just as highly as specialization.
✦ Player Perspective
From a playing standpoint, this Conn 78H offered a highly balanced and versatile experience.
The slide responded quickly and evenly across all positions, making both technical passages and sustained lyrical playing feel comfortable and secure. The rebuilt slide contributed significantly to the instrument's overall ease of use.
Tonally, the 78H delivered the broad, centered sound associated with vintage Elkhart-era Conn trombones. Compared with smaller bore models, it provided additional depth and presence while retaining the clarity and immediacy that define the Conn sound.
For players seeking a medium-bore tenor that bridges orchestral warmth and commercial flexibility, the 78H remains a highly practical and musical option.
This example was fitted with a Shires .525 removable leadpipe in a press-fit configuration designed for small-shank mouthpieces. The setup proved secure, responsive, and remarkably compatible with the original playing concept of the instrument.
🏅 Why Players Trust The Brass Exchange
Since 2010, The Brass Exchange has helped players navigate the world of professional and vintage trombones through careful evaluation, honest representation, and extensive hands-on experience.
Each instrument is individually inspected, play tested, and assessed for condition, performance, and long-term musical value. Over the years, we have documented hundreds of vintage Conn trombones, helping create one of the most comprehensive historical resources available for players and collectors researching classic American brass instruments.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
Is the Conn 78H suitable for jazz playing?
Yes. While many examples were used in orchestral settings, the 78H's medium-bore design offers enough flexibility and responsiveness for jazz, commercial, and small ensemble performance as well.
How does the Conn 78H compare to a Conn 6H?
The 78H generally plays larger than a 6H, offering greater tonal breadth and weight while still retaining much of the clarity and response that define the vintage Conn sound.
Is the Conn 78H a good option for modern players?
Absolutely. The professional slide rebuild and adaptable leadpipe configuration make instruments like this comfortable for players accustomed to both vintage and modern trombone setups.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This Conn 78H tenor trombone has been sold and is no longer available. Archive of Sold pages are maintained as historical references for players, collectors, educators, and researchers seeking information about vintage brass instruments.
Similar Conn trombones occasionally become available, and inventory changes regularly throughout the year.
📌 Archive Reference & Next Steps
This 1948 Conn 78H tenor trombone is now part of our Archive of Sold collection and remains an excellent example of Conn's medium-bore professional trombone design during the celebrated Elkhart era.
Looking for a similar vintage Conn trombone? 🔎 Browse our current trombone inventory to view available professional, vintage, and pre-owned models.