Overview
This S.E. Shires Custom tenor trombone is now part of our Archive of Sold instruments, preserved as a reference example of a thoughtfully configured professional Shires setup.
Originally purchased directly from the factory by a professional bass trombonist, this instrument reflects a deliberate approach to tenor playing—combining a traditional orchestral bell with a slightly larger dual-bore slide for added breadth and stability.
The bell is a 2YM 8.5" yellow brass bell featuring the original hand-engraved Massachusetts floral pattern, representing an earlier era of Shires production prior to the transition to laser engraving. The 2YM is a medium-weight, unsoldered rim design, producing a broad, resonant orchestral sound with strong projection.
The valve section features a Shires axial flow valve paired with a TY yellow brass tuning slide, offering a smooth and open response with consistent resistance.
The handslide is a TB47-62LW lightweight dual-bore slide (.547–.562) with brass outer tubes and nickel end crook. This configuration provides a larger, more powerful feel than a standard .547 slide while maintaining clarity and flexibility.
At the time of sale, this instrument represented a high-level Custom Series build at a significantly lower cost than a comparable new setup.
✦ Player Perspective
From a playing standpoint, this is a large-format orchestral tenor trombone.
The 2YM bell delivers:
• a centered tonal core
• broad projection
• excellent tonal color
The unsoldered rim construction allows the bell to resonate freely, particularly at higher dynamic levels, contributing to a more expansive sound.
The TB47-62LW dual-bore slide adds:
• increased airflow
• greater depth and presence
• a slightly larger overall feel
Many players favor this configuration because it expands the instrument’s sound without sacrificing clarity or articulation.
The axial flow valve integrates seamlessly, offering:
• very open airflow
• smooth response in the valve register
• minimal resistance compared to traditional designs
The result is a setup capable of delivering a large, controlled orchestral sound with excellent stability and projection.
✦ Historical & System Perspective
The modular system developed by S.E. Shires allows players to configure instruments at a highly detailed level, tailoring response and tonal character through component selection.
This particular setup highlights several important elements within that system:
The 2YM Bell
The 2YM is one of the most widely used orchestral bell configurations in the Shires lineup. Its characteristics include:
• medium weight construction
• yellow brass alloy
• unsoldered rim for enhanced resonance
It offers a balance of projection and tonal warmth that suits large ensemble playing.
Axial Flow Valve
The Shires axial valve is designed to provide:
• smooth airflow through the valve register
• reduced resistance compared to traditional rotary valves
• consistent response between open and engaged positions
TB47-62 Dual Bore Slide
The dual-bore (.547–.562) design increases airflow and broadens the sound, creating a slightly larger feel while maintaining control.
Together, these components form a configuration that reflects a modern orchestral approach, combining power, flexibility, and precision.
✦ Condition & Service
At the time of sale, this instrument had been fully serviced in our shop and was in excellent playing condition.
Service included:
• Full chemical bath cleaning
• Axial valve removal and casing polish
• Complete inspection and reassembly of valve linkage
• General mechanical service and play testing
Condition highlights:
• Bell straight with no structural damage
• Original hand engraving in excellent condition
• Smooth slide action
• Reliable valve response
The instrument included a BAM case (France) for secure storage and transport.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
What does the 2YM bell offer compared to other Shires bells?
The 2YM is a medium-weight yellow brass bell with an unsoldered rim that produces a broad, centered orchestral sound. It balances projection and warmth extremely well.
Why use a TB47-62 dual-bore slide?
The .547–.562 dual bore increases airflow and adds depth to the sound. Many players find it provides a larger orchestral presence while maintaining flexibility.
How does the axial flow valve feel compared to traditional rotary valves?
The Shires axial valve offers a very open response with minimal resistance and a smooth transition between open and valve registers.
Why would a player choose this type of setup?
This configuration is often chosen by players seeking a larger orchestral sound with strong projection and stability, while still maintaining clarity and control across the instrument.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This instrument has been sold and is now part of our Archive of Sold collection.
These pages serve as a historical and educational reference for players researching professional trombone setups and configurations.
📌 Archive Reference & Next Steps
This Shires Custom tenor trombone represents a well-balanced orchestral setup combining traditional bell design with modern modular flexibility.
If you are exploring similar configurations—or considering selling a Shires instrument—we’re always available to help guide the process.
👉 Browse current trombone inventory 🔎
https://thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
🔄 Considering a trade-in to upgrade your current instrument?
✍️ Contact us for a valuation and explore your options.
🏅 Why Players Trust The Brass Exchange
Since 2012, The Brass Exchange has been an Authorized S.E. Shires Pro Shop, with extensive experience in evaluating and configuring Custom Series instruments.
Each instrument is carefully inspected, serviced, and matched to players seeking professional-level performance.
