Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I thought I'd relate that I bought my first trombone in 5 years at a trombone event in Salt Lake City last week. It is a Kanstul bass trombone (model 1662). Like Rics, they are also made in California, but in Anaheim. I decided to finally take the plunge and get into the modern "valve" age (bass trombones usually have two). My 1970 Conn 73H will now be my backup.

Why am I mentioning this? The going rate for new quality bass trombones from the U.S. and Japan (Yamaha) is around $2500 to $7000. My $3900 Kanstul was essentially mid-priced. They are more than most bass guitars cost, but other wind instruments cost even more. By comparison, $1500 to $2000 isn't bad for a bass guitar.

I was able to bring it back from Salt Lake City in the back of my car, which was kind of nice. Kanstul Musical Instruments as a company is only 12 years old, but I think they'll be around for a while. I am a Conn trombone guy (the way I'm a Ric guy for basses), and what got me to buy their model 1662 was the fact that is essentially a modernized Conn 62H bass trombone from the 1960's. It retains all of the best features of that horn, and is better in every way. Most things like this are worth the money if it is less work to play an instrument and easier to get a great sound. There is a certain bass guitar that also fits the bill...

My son just yesterday signed up to play the trombone next year in his first year of middle school.
I had already gotten him a nice little Jetglo 320......looks like I better start saving!!

The first trombone I bought was also a Conn...valve trombone (since my starting point was Baritone Horn)...can't remember the model. Quickly bought a slide attachment and learned to play that as well. Great horns...