Trombone Bliss: Top Brands for Harmonious Tunes

Choosing the right trombone brand can significantly impact your playing experience and overall performance. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to identify which brands offer the best quality and value. From student models to professional-grade instruments, certain manufacturers stand out for their craftsmanship, sound quality, and durability. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of the best trombone brands available today. Read below to discover the top contenders and find the perfect trombone to suit your needs.

Illustration of trombone

Best brands of trombone in 2025

Bach

Bach is arguably the most recognized and historically prestigious brand in the world for trombones, known for its high-quality instruments that have been a standard in the music industry for decades. Despite some criticisms about the consistency of newer models, Bach trombones, particularly those from earlier years, are highly regarded for their smooth, slippery slides and excellent craftsmanship. The brand, now a subsidiary of Conn-Selmer, a division of Steinway Musical Instruments, has maintained a strong market reputation, especially through the 1970s and 1980s. Bach trombones, such as the Stradivarius models, are valued highly, with prices adjusted for inflation showing significant value over the years. The brand's market share and customer loyalty are testaments to its enduring quality and branding. For more information on their instruments, visit the Bach Brass website.

Yamaha

Yamaha is renowned as one of the best producers of trombones, boasting a significant market share in the global musical instrument industry. With a market share of approximately 23.9% in 2020, Yamaha leads the industry, particularly dominating the digital musical instruments sector with about 50% market share. The company's commitment to combining craftsmanship and cutting-edge technologies ensures the production of high-quality trombones. Yamaha's innovative approach, such as developing hybrid instruments that meld acoustic and digital technologies, sets it apart from competitors. This dedication to quality and innovation has earned Yamaha international recognition and a strong brand image.

Conn

The Conn brand, founded by Charles G. Conn in 1915, is renowned for its high-quality trombones, with a rich history in brass instrument manufacturing. Conn instruments have been a staple in many professional and student ensembles, with the company once being the largest musical instrument factory producing a full line of wind instruments. During its peak, Conn owned several other notable brands, including the Leedy Company and Ludwig, and even ceased civilian production from 1942 to 1945 to manufacture military instrumentation. Despite facing challenges, Conn trombones remain popular, with many professionals using them due to their quality and reliability. The brand is now part of the Conn-Selmer portfolio, which includes other respected brands in the music industry.

Edwards

The Edwards brand is renowned for producing high-quality, custom trombones, leveraging extensive research in acoustics and metallurgy, and collaborating with leading artists to ensure precision and hand craftsmanship. Edwards instruments are made from the highest quality premium grade materials, ensuring consistency and excellence. The brand was initially part of Allied Music Corporation, owned by Tom and Ed Getzen, before being integrated into the Getzen company after its bankruptcy. This integration allowed for a significant revamp of the Getzen trombone line, utilizing the expertise gained from producing Edwards instruments. Edwards maintains a selective dealer network, reflecting its commitment to maintaining a high standard of quality and reputation.

Getzen

Getzen is renowned as one of the top producers of trombones, having started its instrument manufacturing journey in 1946 with the production of about 1,000 trombones in its first year. By the 1950s, the company had expanded to produce trumpets and cornets, employing over 80 people and gaining a reputation for high-quality student band instruments. Getzen's commitment to handcrafted instruments, with processes like hand-spun bells and manual soldering, sets it apart in the industry. The company's focus on quality has led to significant improvements, such as the introduction of the 4047DS Custom Reserve trombone in 2011, which raised the bar for professional-grade trombones. Getzen's instruments have even contributed to a 75% increase in trumpet-player retention in a Minnesota school district, highlighting their superior performance. Discover more about their journey on Getzen's history page.

King

The King brand, founded by Henderson N. White in 1893, is renowned for producing top-quality trombones, particularly the King 3B, which has been a favorite among professional jazz musicians since its introduction in 1951. Known for its brilliant tone and fluidity in the upper register, the King 3B features a .508-inch bore and an 8-inch bell, available in various materials such as yellow brass, gold brass, or sterling silver. The company's collaboration with musicians like Tommy Dorsey in the 1940s and 1950s significantly contributed to its reputation. King trombones are now manufactured by Conn-Selmer, Inc., continuing the legacy of excellence in the music industry. The King 3B remains one of the best-selling jazz trombones, reflecting the brand's commitment to superior sound quality and instrument craftsmanship.

Schilke

Schilke Music Products is renowned for its high-quality trombones, continuing the legacy of Greenhoe Trombones since its acquisition in 2016. Founded in 1956 by Renold O. Schilke, the company has maintained its standards of excellence for over 65 years, with each instrument handcrafted by skilled artisans in Melrose Park, Illinois. Schilke trombones are available in small bore, large bore, and bass models, all featuring the patented Greenhoe valve system. The company's commitment to traditional craftsmanship combined with state-of-the-art technology ensures top-notch sound and performance. With a global presence, Schilke instruments are available in nearly 40 countries, reflecting their strong reputation in the brass instrument industry.

Jupiter

Jupiter, a brand established by KHS Musical Instruments in 1979, is renowned for producing high-quality trombones that offer excellent value and performance. Known for their solid construction and ease of play, Jupiter trombones are ideal for beginners and intermediate players, featuring specifications such as a .500" bore, 8" bell, and chrome-plated nickel silver inner slides. Jupiter's student instruments come with an unmatched warranty, including the "Until-Graduation-Guarantee," ensuring reliability and longevity. The brand collaborates closely with musicians and educators to provide instruments that meet the needs of both performers and educators. Jupiter's commitment to quality and value makes it a first choice for many in the musical community.

Kanstul

Kanstul was renowned for producing high-quality trombones, particularly notable for their custom work and modern reproductions of classic horns. They were one of the last premium brass makers in the US, and their instruments, such as the Conn 62h inspired bass trombone, were highly regarded by musicians. Kanstul's trombones were part of a market expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2018 to 2030, driven by increasing demand in music education and the rising popularity of jazz and blues music. Their trombones, including the Alto, Bass, and Tenor types, were appreciated for their build quality and performance. Despite the company's closure, their legacy in the brass instrument market remains significant. For more insights and discussions about Kanstul's trombones, visit this trombone chat forum.

Rath

Rath Trombones, founded in 1996 by Michael Rath, is Britain's only trombone manufacturer, renowned for producing high-quality, hand-made trombones. With a team of 12 craftspeople, they create up to 500 trombones annually, exporting them through 25 distributors worldwide. Rath offers a range of instruments, including tenor, bass, contrabass, and alto trombones, catering to both professional musicians and students. Their instruments are highly regarded for their sound and playability, with options for customization to suit various musical needs. In 2024, Rath Trombones was acquired by John Packer Musical Instruments, ensuring the continuation of their exceptional craftsmanship. For more detailed information, you can visit the Wikipedia page of Michael Rath Trombones.