The S.E. Shires Custom-Series Trubore bass trombone is a modern benchmark for professional players who want an open, free-blowing valve system with outstanding response and tonal depth.
This particular example combined Shires’ highly regarded Independent Trubore valve set (Bb/F/Gb/D) with a BII 7YM medium-weight yellow-brass bell and a factory-installed detachable screw-bell flare — an increasingly popular choice for travel-friendly professional setups.
This instrument was lightly used by a single owner, played primarily at home, and remained in mint condition — no cosmetic flaws, no mechanical issues.
We verified it was fully set up and performance-ready at the time of arrival.
The BII 7YM bell is known for its clear articulation, broad tonal center, and reliable projection in orchestral settings.
The detachable screw-bell flare allowed the bell section to pack flat inside the included Marcus Bonna detachable-bell case, a lightweight, protective option favored by traveling musicians.
The setup also featured a gold-brass tuning slide, a custom dual-bore (.562–.578) handslide, three interchangeable leadpipes, and a factory-installed adjustable thumb bar.
As of 2025, a factory-new Shires Custom Trubore with similar configuration and screw-bell case sells for well over $7,500, making this clean pre-owned example a remarkable value when it was available.
This S.E. Shires Custom-Series Trubore bass trombone has been sold and is now presented in our Historical Archive as a reference for players, teachers, and anyone researching top-tier Shires configurations and the value of quality pre-owned professional instruments.
The Brass Exchange has been an authorized S.E. Shires Pro Shop since 2012 and has guided hundreds of players toward the right Shires setup — including component-based builds like this one.
Q: What makes the Trubore valve system different from rotary or axial valves?
A: The stacked straight-through Trubore valves provide an open feel, smooth airflow, and precise intonation, making technical passages cleaner and lower-register playing more responsive.
Q: Is the detachable screw-bell still a popular option?
A: Yes. The screw-bell design simplifies travel and storage, especially for players who fly or commute frequently, while maintaining the same tonal performance as a fixed-bell horn.
Q: How does the BII 7YM bell pair with the gold-brass tuning slide?
A: The yellow-brass bell offers clarity and centered focus, while the gold-brass tuning slide adds warmth and tonal flexibility — a proven combination for orchestral and large-ensemble work.
Q: Can similar setups still be ordered new from Shires?
A: Yes — the Trubore with BII 7YM bell and dual-bore slide remains available in the Custom Series, though current lead times vary because most are built to order.
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