Schmelzer Model IV-XT Tenor Trombone with Axial Rotor and Traditional German Bell
$4,195.00
Item Details
This Model IV is a custom large bore symphonic tenor trombone made by Manfred Schmelzer in Germany. Manfred is retiring in 2024, so this is the last one we'll see. A lightweight instrument with an axial rotor like this is captivating, and the bell kranz keeps the tone in check. It's especially resonant and fast.
Besides the nickel garland on the bell (kranz), this has a reverse F slide to add more mass to the slide and its connection to the horn. The minimal bracing allows the bell to fully vibrate. The grip for the hand is not overly large and the trigger throw is fairly short for this design. The bell is ornately engraved, suiting its German heritage. The hand slide end crook is slightly straighter through the middle than US designs. The tuning slide and F slide have the same very round radius. This shape puts a little more length of the instrument within the tuning slide rather than in the neckpipe, so it plays more open, a little larger, faster.
This is a terrific playing horn, it makes me want to keep it.
Features
- .547" wide brass hand slide with nickel trim and removable leadpipe
- Thayer style axial rotor
- Lightweight 220mm brass bell with German-style nickel garland
- Edge-style lightweight bracing
- Removable bell
- Lacquer finish
- Includes case, no mouthpiece
