B454-V-E Bass Trombone

The B454-V-E is the ideal instrument for bass trombonists in need of options. The configurable second valve tuning allows players to change easily between Gb/D, G/Eb, and Blair Bollinger’s brand of tuning (designated “BB”) without costly conversions.

Note: You will need to specify which second valve tuning setup you want when ordering your horn. Optional second valve tuning slides are available.

The B454-V-E’s positive characteristics go beyond second valve tuning options. The Axial Flow valve section is narrower than our standard B454 configuration, which allows for a unique “half Edge-braced” valve section. This slots the B454-V-E between our B454 and B454-E models.

Like our other bass models, the B454-V is available with 9½”, 10″, or 10½” bell flares in various wall thicknesses and tempers with soldered or unsoldered rims. In addition, you may choose from yellow, rose, or red brass with a clear, lacquer finish.

Single and dual bore slides in standard weight and lightweight configurations include your choice of standard brass leadpipe with further custom lead pipe options available in silver and brass.

Changing tuning slide material and design has a profound effect on instruments. Edwards has many tuning slide options available on request.

As the name suggests, the B454-V-E is the most versatile bass trombone on the market.

Specs & Features

Bore Size

.562" or .562"/.578" bore

Leadpipe

Interchangeable leadpipe system with one leadpipe

Slides

B-STDN: The B-STDN is the standard .562" bore bass trombone slide. This slide provides a player with greater flexibility in the upper register. It is most comparable to the Bach 50 slide. The B-STDN has a yellow brass outer slide with nickel sleeves and endcrook.
B-DBN: The B-DBN is a .562"/.578" dual bore slide. This slide adds width to the sound and blows freely in the low register. The B-DBN has a yellow brass outer slide with nickel sleeves and endcrook.

Tuning Slides

Single Radius: Single Radius tuning slides are the most common. They have one continuous bend from small to large end. They are very free blowing and open in all registers.
Dual Radius: Dual Radius tuning slides have two bends. The shape is more square with the two bends making a flattened top. The dual radius provides a quicker response and ease in the upper register, however, the sound is more compact than the single radius tuning slide. All dual radius tuning slides are CF treated to offset the compact nature of this tuning slide.

Both types available in yellow or red brass

Valves

Independent Axial Flow Valves
First Valve Pitched in F
Second Valve Pitched in G, flat G, or Gb

Bell Weights

20 Gauge - Heaviest (.031" thick)
21 Gauge (.028" thick)
22 Gauge (.025" thick)
23 Gauge - Lightest (.022" thick)

Bell Materials

Yellow Brass (70% Copper / 30% Zinc)
Rose Brass (85% Copper / 15% Zinc)
Red Brass (90% Copper / 10% Zinc)

Bell Treatments

Soldered: A soldered bell tends to have a very centered sound with a lot of core (fundamental). The articulations are slightly dampened and softer with the solder, while the sound is more direct and compact.
Unsoldered: An unsoldered bell has a very wide sound with more overtones. Articulations are easier with an unsoldered rim. More near feel is apparent with these bells as the sound is wider, which helps give the player more feedback.
Tempered: Tempering occurs when a bell is spun twice on a mandrel which work hardens the bell. This adds brilliance and colour to the sound.
Double Buffed: Double buffing thins the bell slightly. It actually creates a thickness in between any two gauges.
Heat Treated: Heat treating is a baking of the entire bell. This softens the metal immensely and creates a very dark sound. This works best on heavier bells as it tends to free them up. Heat treating is not recommended on thinner bells as it makes them more prone to mute dents. The CF treatment has virtually replaced heat treating.
CF Treated: CF treating is a partial heat treating process. This treatment allows the bell to blow more freely and adds colour to the sound.

Finishes

RawBrass
Lacquer
Silver Plate
Satin Finish