AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Tenor Trombones 2026
The top pick is Yamaha YSL-354 Standard Trombone ($987). pBone music pBone White gives you the most for the money at $159. Michael Rath R3 Tenor GB leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 49 models across 13 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
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All Tenor TrombonesTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Yamaha YSL-354 Standard Trombone
YSL-354 E Bb-Trombone · Yamaha
25 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The YSL-354 E is a really solid, dependable trombone. It’s a great step up from a beginner horn, offering improved tone and playability without being overly complex or premium-priced. Ideal for serious students and intermediate players looking for a reliable instrument that's easy to handle and sounds great in a variety of musical settings.
Pros
- Excellent intonation across the range, thanks to precise valve alignment.
- Gold lacquer provides a warm, responsive tone suitable for varied styles.
- Nickel silver slide offers smooth action and consistent playability.
Cons
- The gold lacquer can show fingerprints easily, requiring frequent polishing.
- Bell size limits extreme low-end power compared to larger bell models.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$987 now$987€879 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The YSL-891ZD is a seriously refined instrument – a top-tier jazz trombone for the discerning player. The reversed slide and removable bell offer incredible versatility in tone, letting you dial in everything from buttery smooth ballads to bright, cutting leads. It's a pro-level trombone built to last, but be prepared for a premium-priced investment.
Pros
- Yellow brass bell provides exceptional warmth and projection.
- Reversed slide improves response and intonation across registers.
- Removable bell unlocks tonal flexibility for varied musical styles.
Cons
- Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for most players.
- The heavier bell can lead to fatigue during extended playing sessions.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,590 now$3,590€3,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size8"
The pBone White is a fantastic entry point for anyone curious about trombone. Its robust plastic build and manageable weight make it ideal for students or players who need a reliable travel instrument. While the tone isn't as rich as a brass trombone, it’s surprisingly decent and offers a great playing experience for the price.
Pros
- Durable ABS plastic construction resists dents and damage easily.
- Fiberglass slide offers surprisingly smooth action for a plastic trombone.
- Lightweight at 800g, making it comfortable for students and travel.
Cons
- ABS plastic lacks the warmth and resonance of brass.
- Fiberglass slide, while smooth, can be less durable than metal alternatives.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$159 now$159€142 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size5"
- Weight5.1 kg
This is a great entry-level trombone for students who need something light but sound good. The carbon slide feels modern and smooth, while the medium bore gives a warm tone that grows with the player. It comes with a case and mouthpiece, making it ready to use right out of the box.
Pros
- Lightweight design makes it easy for students to carry and play.
- Ergonomic shape fits comfortably in smaller hands and frames.
- Carbon outer slide stays smooth and requires less maintenance.
Cons
- Gold lacquered finish may scratch easier than solid brass.
- No mute selection or built-in mute mechanism included.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 2Sep 2$1,233 now$1,233€1,098 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size8"
The Thomann Classic TB500 L is a surprisingly capable student or intermediate trombone. The .500 bore provides a good balance between responsiveness and tone projection, making it ideal for beginners and players wanting a reliable, budget-friendly instrument for practice and school band.
Pros
- Medium bore offers a balanced, responsive feel for varied playing.
- Nickel silver slides provide smooth action and reliable tuning.
- Hard chrome inner slide minimizes stickiness, aiding maintenance.
Cons
- The included mouthpiece is basic, a higher quality one is recommended.
- At 1.5 kg, it might be a bit heavy for younger or smaller players.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$335 now$335€298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size8"
This Thomann Classic TB525 L is a solid, affordable option for intermediate players or students looking for a full-bodied sound. The .525 bore provides a good balance of projection and playability, and the Reka slide is a nice touch for reliability. It’s a workhorse instrument that'll handle a lot of playing without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Large 8’ bell projects a robust, warm tone suitable for various genres
- Nickel silver slide provides smooth, responsive action and good intonation
- Hard-chromed inner slide minimizes stickiness and ensures reliable playability
Cons
- The medium-large bore might feel a little cumbersome for younger or smaller players
- Transparent lacquer finish, while attractive, may require more careful maintenance to prevent wear
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$369 now$369€329 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size4"
This trombone feels solid with its brass gooseneck and silver-plated bell. It comes with an extra mouth pipe for different feels. It is a good mid-range choice for players wanting a bright sound.
Pros
- Solid brass gooseneck ensures smooth slide movement
- Polished silver-plated bell adds bright resonance
- Nickel silver slide offers responsive control
Cons
- No weight listed makes handling feel uncertain
- Clear lacquer may show fingerprints easily
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,467 now$2,467€2,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size8"
The Rath R3 is a beautifully crafted tenor trombone, built for the serious student or professional. Its gold brass bell and responsive bore provide a fantastic combination of warmth, projection, and playability. It’s a real step up in quality and tone, offering a professional feel without the extreme cost of some top-tier brands.
Pros
- Gold brass bell delivers a rich, warm, and projecting tone.
- 0.525” bore promotes effortless response and a comfortable feel.
- Nickel-silver slides ensure smooth, reliable action and longevity.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- Lighter lacquer may require more frequent maintenance to prevent wear.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,186 now$4,186€3,729 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight1.57 kg
The Jupiter JTB710RQ is a really solid choice for intermediate to advanced players seeking a comfortable and responsive tenor trombone. Its ergonomic design and gold brass bell deliver a warm, projecting sound, making it great for jazz, big band, and even some classical playing. This trombone is a great value, providing professional features at a more affordable price point.
Pros
- Ergonomic design significantly reduces hand fatigue during long sessions
- Gold brass bell offers a warm, resonant tone with good projection
- Nickel silver inner slides provide smooth, reliable action and quick response
Cons
- The varnished finish, while attractive, can be susceptible to wear with heavy use
- Nickel silver outer slides can tarnish requiring occasional cleaning and polishing
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$987 now$987€879 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size4"
This trombone has a bright gold bell and a matte finish that looks great. The included balancer helps you move the slide smoothly, and you can swap out leadpipes to change the sound. It is a solid choice for jazz players who want a reliable instrument with good leadpipe options. Just remember you need to buy your own mouthpiece to play it.
Pros
- Interchangeable brass leadpipes offer flexible sound choices.
- Balancer included for easier slide movement control.
- Matte finish provides a durable, scratch-resistant surface.
Cons
- No mouthpiece is included in the package.
- Weight is not listed in the product details.
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,342 now$5,342€4,759 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 49 tenor trombones
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Thomann SL-39 Bb- Tenor TromboneThomann · 2 finishes39Stable$313€279$313€279Check ↗
- 12
Kühnl & Hoyer .527 Bb-Tenor Trombone MKühnl & Hoyer · 2 finishes39Stable$2,916€2,598$2,916€2,598Check ↗
- 13
Kühnl & Hoyer Bart van Lier .480/88" MKIIKühnl & Hoyer · 2 finishes39Stable$3,365€2,998$3,365€2,998Check ↗
- 14
Yamaha YSL-881G 02 TromboneYamaha · 2 finishes39Stable$3,530€3,145$3,530€3,145Check ↗
- 15
Startone SSL-45 Bb-Tenor TromboneStartone · 3 finishes38Stable$212€189$212€189Check ↗
- 16
Michael Rath R10 Tenor YBMichael Rath · 2 finishes38Stable$4,096€3,649$4,096€3,649Check ↗
- 17
King 2103F 3B Legend Series Trombone w/ F-Rotor2103 Legend 3B Trombone · King · 2 finishes37Stable$3,793€3,379$3,793€3,379Check ↗
- 18
Gewa Bb-Trombone 236 VisionGewa36Stable$1,345€1,198$1,345€1,198Check ↗
- 19
Kühnl & Hoyer 127 NZ Bb- Tenor TromboneKühnl & Hoyer36Stable$2,670€2,379$2,670€2,379Check ↗
- 20
Kühnl & Hoyer 134 G NZ Bb- Tenor TromboneKühnl & Hoyer36Stable$2,861€2,549$2,861€2,549Check ↗
- 21
Kühnl & Hoyer .547 Bb-Tenor TromboneKühnl & Hoyer36Stable$3,029€2,698$3,029€2,698Check ↗
- 22
Kühnl & Hoyer Bart VAN Lier .500" TromboneKühnl & Hoyer36Stable$3,590€3,198$3,590€3,198Check ↗
- 23
Kühnl & Hoyer Bart van Lier .512Kühnl & Hoyer36Stable$3,759€3,349$3,759€3,349Check ↗
- 24
Kühnl & Hoyer van Lier .480/88" MKII BZ MLKühnl & Hoyer36Stable$3,814€3,398$3,814€3,398Check ↗
- 25
Kühnl & Hoyer Solaris PerformanceKühnl & Hoyer36Stable$4,039€3,598$4,039€3,598Check ↗
- 26
Kühnl & Hoyer Slokar SoloKühnl & Hoyer36Stable$4,039€3,598$4,039€3,598Check ↗
- 27
Kühnl & Hoyer Bart van Lier .500" G NickelKühnl & Hoyer36Stable$4,151€3,698$4,151€3,698Check ↗
- 28
Kühnl & Hoyer Bb-Tenor Trombone EdithKühnl & Hoyer36Stable$4,208€3,749$4,208€3,749Check ↗
- 29
Kühnl & Hoyer Bart van Lier 500Kühnl & Hoyer36Stable$4,376€3,898$4,376€3,898Check ↗
- 30
Thomann SL 600 Jazz Bb- Tenor TromboneThomann35Stable$369€329$369€329Check ↗
- 31
Thomann Jazz Bb- Tenor TromboneThomann35Stable$392€349$392€349Check ↗
- 32
Thomann Blacky Bb-Tenor TromboneThomann35Stable$414€369$414€369Check ↗
- 33
Thomann proBONE 1 Bb-Tenor TromboneThomann35Stable$729€649$729€649Check ↗
- 34
Yamaha YSL-447 GE II TromboneYamaha35Stable$1,514€1,349$1,514€1,349Check ↗
- 35
Yamaha YSL-445 GE II TromboneYamaha35Stable$1,537€1,369$1,537€1,369Check ↗
- 36
Yamaha YSL-897 Z TromboneYamaha35Stable$3,702€3,298$3,702€3,298Check ↗
- 37
Yamaha YSL-893DNL TromboneYamaha35Stable$4,231€3,769$4,231€3,769Check ↗
- 38
Michael Rath R1 Tenor MMichael Rath34Stable$4,096€3,649$4,096€3,649Check ↗
- 39
Michael Rath R2 TenorMichael Rath34Stable$4,096€3,649$4,096€3,649Check ↗
- 40
Startone PTB-10 Bb- Jazz Trombone BlueStartone32Stable$129€115$129€115Check ↗
- 41
Jupiter JTB730Q Tenor TromboneJupiter32Stable$881€785$881€785Check ↗
- 42
Jupiter JTB700Q Bb TromboneJupiter32Stable$919€819$919€819Check ↗
- 43
King 2102 Legend 2B TromboneKing32Stable$3,586€3,195$3,586€3,195Check ↗
- 44
King 2102 L Legend 2B Jiggs WhighamKing32Stable$3,793€3,379$3,793€3,379Check ↗
- 45
King 2103G Legend 3BKing32Stable$4,263€3,798$4,263€3,798Check ↗
- 46
Sierman STB-511 Tenor TromboneSierman28Stable$526€469$526€469Check ↗
- 47
C.G.Conn 8H Bb Tenor TromboneC.G.Conn28Stable$4,039€3,598$4,039€3,598Check ↗
- 48
Schagerl Superbone Bb/F-TromboneSchagerl28Stable$7,968€7,098$7,968€7,098Check ↗
- 49
Thomann Blacky Trombone Starter SetThomann26Stable$470€419$470€419Check ↗
Tenor Trombones by the numbers
Measured across all 196 models we track, not a sample.
Median $2,467 — half of all tenor trombones here cost less.
median of 57 models · 4"–8.5"
median of 14 models · 1.1 kg–5.1 kg
How to choose the best tenor trombones
Material (Brass Type)
Yellow brass tends to be brighter and more responsive, good for cutting through a mix. Red brass offers a darker, warmer tone with more sustain - great for ballads but can get muddy. Nickel silver is less common but delivers a focused, articulate sound. It's a tonal trade-off, so choose what suits your style.
Bell Size & Shape
A larger bell (2.75"+) generally provides more volume and low-end thump, which is crucial for big band or brass ensemble work. Smaller bells (around 2.5") are more nimble and easier to control, better for jazz or solo work. Bell flare shape affects projection and tone color - a wider flare projects further, a more gradual flare offers a more focused tone.
Action & Slide Configuration
The action (how easily the slide moves) significantly impacts playability. A smooth, consistent action is essential for fast passages and accurate articulation. F-attachment trombones offer extended range, common in orchestral settings; otherwise, it's a standard tenor.
Valve Type (If Applicable)
Some trombones incorporate valves for alternate tunings or mutes. These can add versatility, but cheap valve systems can feel clunky and affect the instrument's overall resonance. Consider the valve's quality and how it integrates with the horn's design.
Neck Profile & Angle
The neck's shape and angle drastically affect the instrument's response and resistance. A more open neck angle generally makes the horn easier to play, while a closed angle can offer more focused projection, but might require more embouchure control.
Buying guide
So you're in the market for a tenor trombone? Good choice, it's a workhorse instrument. Whether you're a student just starting out, a seasoned gigging pro, or somewhere in between, finding the right horn is critical. This isn't just about blowing air; it's about finding an instrument that responds to your playing, offers the articulation you need, and sounds decent when you're battling a drummer in a smoky bar - or needs to cut through a big band rehearsal.
Don't fall for shiny finishes and fancy marketing. A well-built trombone will feel good in your hands and respond predictably. Cheap horns often use thinner brass, leading to buzzing and inconsistent intonation.
Paying a bit more for a reputable brand and a solid build will save you headaches down the road - a good horn is an investment, not just an expense. Used instruments are a great option, but have a tech check it out before committing.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 76 tenor trombones from the Thomann catalogue (of 196 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a Bach 42 and a 36?
The 42 is a brighter, more open horn, great for lead playing and cutting through a band. The 36 is darker, more resonant, and often preferred for jazz and solo work - it's a more mellow sound. Both are excellent, it's purely preference.
I'm a beginner, should I get an F-attachment?
Not unless you specifically need it for orchestral work. A standard tenor trombone is more than sufficient for most beginners, and the extra complexity of the F-attachment can be overwhelming.
What about mutes? Which ones are essential?
A cup mute is a must-have for jazz. Plunger mutes are fun for experimenting with different effects. Don't buy a bunch right away, get the cup mute and see what you need.
My trombone feels stiff, what can I do?
It likely needs a cleaning and lubrication. Slide cream or silicone spray can help, but if it's consistently stiff, a professional trombone tech should inspect it for wear or damage.
Is it worth getting a custom mouthpiece?
Absolutely! The mouthpiece is the most critical factor in your tone. Experimenting with different mouthpieces is the quickest way to improve your sound - just be prepared to spend some money.
