Buying Guides

Are Trombones Expensive? (Explained)

Are Trombones Expensive
Source https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Trombone
Written by Corey Morgan

Why are trombones so expensive: there are a few factors that will affect how expensive a trombone is; the quality of the materials, the brand name, and the level of craftsmanship all play a role in how much a trombone costs. Typically, the better quality of your instrument, the more you are going to spend.

Factors affecting the cost of trombone

  • Brand Name

Trombones are manufactured by many different companies all over the world; however, there are certain brands that have higher prices than others. Some well-known brands include Bach, Conn, King and Yamaha. With these companies you will find a higher price tag than with a lesser-known company.

  • The level of instrument affecting cost

The level of the instrument also greatly affects the cost. A beginner trombone, for example, is going to be much less expensive than a professional-level trombone. This is because professional-level trombones require a higher level of craftsmanship and are often made with more expensive materials.

The cheapest trombone is a student model. The cost of professional or more advanced trombones is the highest. Intermediate-level instruments have a price that lies between those of the other categories.

  • Level of Craftsmanship

A trombone that has been manufactured by hand will cost more than one that is assembled with automation and robotics techniques. The level of craftsmanship also plays a role in the quality of the instrument, which means it can affect how much you spend on your new purchase.

  • Quality Materials

The quality of material used in the trombone is also often a factor. When making the trombone, manufacturers use certain metals that can change its weight and durability. The better materials (such as brass or sterling silver) are typically more expensive than inferior metal (such as aluminum). This too affects the price because these materials are used to make higher-level trombones.

The costlier the material, the higher the price tag for your instrument. However, quality materials will produce a better sound that is highly sought after by professional musicians.

  • Materials and equipment

Materials used in the construction of a trombone can affect its quality and price. One of the most important materials is brass, which is used for the tubing of the instrument. Other materials used in trombones include nickel-silver, which is used for the inner slide; gold, which is used for the outer slide; and lacquer, which is used to coat the brass and protect it from corrosion.

Factors that can affect the quality of a trombone include the type of metal used, the thickness of the metal, and the method of construction. Trombones made with high-quality materials are typically more expensive than those made with lower-quality materials. However, a quality trombone is worth every penny.

The cost of a trombone is also determined by the material used to build the instrument’s bell. The majority of trombone bells are constructed from cheaper yellow brass, which is commonly found on student level instruments.

The lighter-weight and less expensive nickel brass is commonly utilized in intermediate instruments, giving the instrument a warmer sound.

The costliest bells used on trombones are sterling silver and nickel, which are utilized in professional-level instruments. The sound produced by these expensive materials is more pleasant than that created by less costly ones.

  • Price range

The price range depending on the quality of materials and equipment used to make them. However, trombones made with high-quality materials are typically more expensive than those made with lower-quality materials. However, a quality trombone is worth every penny.

  • Accessories included

The cost of a trombone is determined by any additional equipment included with the instrument. A counterweight, for example, is an accessory meant to balance out the trombone and prevent it from being too bell-heavy. This raises the price of the instrument, but also improves its tone.

Some instruments also include oils that can be used to keep the instrument in good shape. The price of an instrument rises when more accessories are included.

  • The level of instrument affecting cost

The level of the instrument also greatly affects the cost. A beginner trombone, for example, is going to be much less expensive than a professional-level trombone. This is because professional-level trombones require a higher level of craftsmanship and are often made with more expensive materials.

The cheapest trombone is a student model. The cost of professional or more advanced trombones is the highest. Intermediate-level instruments have a price that lies between those of the other categories.

Summary

There are many factors that affect the cost of trombones; however, you will discover that a high-quality instrument is always going to cost more than one of lesser value. A level of craftsmanship, materials and brand name all play a role in how much your new trombone costs.