Deep Dive into 6 Bass Trombones: Tones and Comparison

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The King 7B
3. The Yamaha 613
4. The Shires George Koran
5. The Monster Base
6. The Bach 50K3 LG
7. The BNS Meister singer Serastro Bass Trombone
8. Comparison of Sound and Performance
9. Pros and Cons
10. Conclusion

The Ultimate Collection of Bass Trombones: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

In this article, we will take a deep dive into the world of bass trombones as we explore a unique collection of six different instruments. Each trombone offers its own distinct features and qualities that make it stand out. From the King 7B to the BNS Meister singer Serastro, we will Delve into the pros and cons of each instrument, discussing their sound, performance, and overall impression. So, whether You're a professional trombonist looking for your next addition or a music enthusiast curious about the world of bass trombones, this comprehensive review is for you.

The King 7B

Starting off our collection, we have the King 7B. With its nickel tubes, yellow brass valve section, and rose Bell, this trombone maintains the classic design of the King brand. Although it may not possess any extraordinary features, the King 7B delivers a clean, bass trombone sound that is both reliable and consistent. The 562 valves ensure a smooth playing experience, though they may not offer the utmost openness. With good high and low ranges, the King 7B proves to be a solid choice for any trombonist seeking a dependable instrument.

The Yamaha 613

Next up, we have the Yamaha 613. This horn, though not particularly unique in any specific way, excels in its ease of playability and production of a pleasant bass trombone sound. The 613 is known for its versatility, making it a popular choice for Disney performances or big band settings. However, it may lack the weight and power desired for larger, more demanding musical environments. The high range can pose some challenges, especially above tuning B flat. Overall, the Yamaha 613 is a reliable instrument that serves as an excellent entry point for beginners and a dependable companion for many trombonists.

The Shires George Koran

Moving on to the Shires George Koran, we encounter a trombone that embodies the standard setup of Shires' parts. With the B6278 slide, lightweight axial set, and C20 slide, the Koran strikes a balance between playability and quality sound production. The dual bore design and axials may require some adjustment in air usage, but once mastered, this trombone delivers an exceptional playing experience. The evenness, articulation, and centered high range set the Koran apart from others in its class. While the ergonomics may not be the most comfortable, the Shires George Koran remains a top contender in the world of bass trombones.

The Monster Base

Known for its customizability, the Monster Base offers a versatile playing experience with various combinations of slides, bells, and lead pipes. With a B6278 slide, two lead pipes, and a copper Hula reversed tuning slide, this trombone allows for a multitude of tonal options. However, the Monster Base falls short in some aspects. The clunky ergonomics, slow valves, and distinctive pedal range make it less user-friendly compared to other bass trombones. While the sound quality may be excellent, particularly in the upper range, the overall difficulty level and unbalanced low range pose challenges for many trombonists.

The Bach 50K3 LG

Another Bach trombone joins our collection, the 50K3 LG. Equipped with a dual bore Edward slide and a two-leaf pipe, this instrument offers a familiar and reliable playing experience. The Bach 50K3 LG emphasizes tonal color, producing a rich and dark sound across all ranges. However, it may require extra effort to play due to its heightened air demand. The pedals, though present, exhibit a distinct response and sound quality compared to other notes. The unique combination of clunky ergonomics and the nature of the low range may deter trombonists seeking an instrument with more ease of play.

The BNS Meister singer Serastro Bass Trombone

Last but certainly not least, we come to the BNS Meister singer Serastro Bass Trombone. Developed by Carl Lenthey at Indiana University, this instrument is revered for its captivating sound quality. It possesses an incredible range of tonal colors that allows for expressive playing. The BNS Meister singer Serastro demands a particular air approach, making it less accessible for some trombonists. However, its unique characteristics and exceptional sound make it a standout choice for those desiring a truly special instrument. Although not the easiest trombone to play, the BNS Meister singer Serastro delivers a deeply satisfying and rich playing experience.

Comparison of Sound and Performance

After reviewing each trombone in our collection, it is essential to compare their sound and performance to determine their strengths and weaknesses. The King 7B impresses with its reliability, the Yamaha 613 with its ease of playability, and the Shires George Koran with its evenness and centered high range. On the other HAND, the Monster Base offers customization at the expense of ergonomics and ease of play. The Bach 50K3 LG provides a dark and rich sound, but with clunky ergonomics and idiosyncrasies in the low range. Finally, the BNS Meister singer Serastro stands out for its captivating sound quality, although it may pose challenges in terms of air usage and accessibility.

Pros and Cons

To summarize our findings, let's consider the pros and cons of each trombone:

• King 7B:

  • Pros: Reliable and consistent sound, good high and low ranges.
  • Cons: Not the most open valves, lacks special features.

• Yamaha 613:

  • Pros: Versatile and easy to play, suitable for beginners.
  • Cons: Lacks weight and power for larger performances, challenging high range.

• Shires George Koran:

  • Pros: Even sound, centered high range, reliable quality.
  • Cons: Clunky ergonomics, requires adjustment in air usage.

• Monster Base:

  • Pros: Customizable tonal options, excellent sound quality.
  • Cons: Clunky ergonomics, slow valves, challenging low range.

• Bach 50K3 LG:

  • Pros: Dark and rich sound, powerful in upper range.
  • Cons: Clunky ergonomics, idiosyncrasies in low range, requires extra effort to play.

• BNS Meister singer Serastro Bass Trombone:

  • Pros: Captivating sound quality, exceptional tonal colors.
  • Cons: Requires specific air approach, less accessible for some trombonists.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our collection of bass trombones encompasses a range of instruments, each with its own unique characteristics and qualities. From the reliable and consistent King 7B to the captivating sound of the BNS Meister singer Serastro, these trombones offer various options for trombonists of all levels and preferences. While each instrument has its strengths and weaknesses, it is important to consider the specific sound, performance, and playing experience desired. With careful consideration, any trombonist can find their perfect match among these exceptional bass trombones.