AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Tenor Trombones with F-Attachment Under $5,000 2026
The top pick is Thomann Classic TF525 S Trombone ($729). Startone PTB-20 Bb/F- Trombone Blue gives you the most for the money at $156. B&S MS14-L Bb/F- Trombone leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 49 models across 14 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Size8"
- Weight1.72 kg
The Thomann Classic TF525 S is a surprisingly capable instrument, offering a traditional sound and feel at a budget-friendly price point. Its .525 bore and brass bell provide a pleasing warmth that's excellent for student players and those seeking a reliable, comfortable tenor trombone for band and orchestral work. The included Reka slide is a nice touch, contributing to a smoother playing experience.
Pros
- Solid brass bell delivers a warm, resonant tone with good projection
- Nickel silver outer slide provides smooth action and responsiveness
- Hard chrome inner slide ensures durability and low maintenance
Cons
- The 1.72 kg weight can be tiring for younger or less experienced players
- Closed wrap design limits versatility for extreme high register playing
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$729 now$729€649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YSL-448G Intermediate Bb/
F Trombone YSL-448 GE Bb/F-Trombone · Yamaha
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This 448 GE is a solid, dependable choice for serious student to intermediate players and even professionals looking for a reliable workhorse. The gold brass provides a lovely core tone, and the action is very consistent. It's a great all-around trombone that's ready for band, orchestra, or even some lighter jazz work – just don't expect it to be a free-blowing powerhouse.
Pros
- Gold brass body delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- The nickel silver slide offers smooth, reliable action and quick response.
- Standard quart valve provides excellent intonation and a stable feel.
Cons
- The gold lacquer can be prone to wear with heavy use and aggressive cleaning.
- The larger bell might feel unwieldy for players with smaller frames.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,177 now$2,177€1,939 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size8"
- Weight1.6 kg
The Thomann Little Elephant is a surprisingly capable instrument, offering a solid foundation for student and intermediate players. Its gold-brass bell provides a pleasing, relatively dark tone, while the expanded quart valve makes low notes more manageable. It's a great option for those seeking a well-built, versatile trombone without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Gold-brass bell delivers a warm, resonant tone suitable for various styles
- Expanded quart valve offers improved intonation and flexibility in the lower register
- Hard-chromed inner slide promotes smooth action and consistent playability
Cons
- Nickel-silver exterior can be prone to minor scratches and wear with heavy use
- 1.6 kg weight might be tiring for younger or less experienced players
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$671 now$671€598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size5"
This Thomann AX 547 L is a solid, affordable option for intermediate to advanced players looking for a powerful, resonant tenor trombone. The large bore and bell deliver a robust sound that cuts through an ensemble, and the Reka slide adds a touch of quality. It's a great choice for band directors, collegiate players, or anyone wanting a dependable, well-built instrument without premium pricing.
Pros
- Large 222mm bell projects a rich, full tone, ideal for ensembles
- Hard chrome inner slide ensures smooth action and longevity
- Reka Super slide provides excellent valve response and intonation stability
Cons
- The .547in bore might feel a bit large for smaller players or those preferring a more agile feel
- Clear lacquer finish, while attractive, is susceptible to wear and requires care
51AudioFu
Index↓ 4.9%since Aug 17$1,120 · Aug 17$1,065 now$1,065€949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YSL-446G Intermediate Bb/
F Trombone YSL-446 GE Trombone · Yamaha
6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The YSL-446 GE is a fantastic all-around trombone, particularly well-suited for students and intermediate players looking for a professional feel without the premium price tag. Its responsive gold brass bell and comfortable ML bore make it easy to play, while the quart valve expands its versatility. It’s a solid choice for concert band, jazz ensemble, and general playing.
Pros
- Gold brass bell delivers a warm, responsive, and focused tone.
- ML bore promotes easy playing and a stable intonation across registers.
- Nickel silver slide offers smooth action and reliable performance.
Cons
- Gold brass bell might be too mellow for players seeking a brighter, cutting sound.
- Lacquer finish, while attractive, requires diligent care to prevent wear.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,177 now$2,177€1,939 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The B&S MS14-L is a truly exceptional trombone, built for the serious student or professional. The hand-crafted construction and high-quality materials combine to produce a rich, resonant tone and effortless action. This model excels in orchestral and solo settings, offering a professional-level instrument with a refined feel and powerful projection.
Pros
- Hand-crafted construction ensures exceptional resonance and responsiveness.
- Red brass bell delivers a warm, focused tone with excellent projection.
- Extended slide pulls provide incredibly smooth, fast action across the range.
Cons
- The red brass bell may require more frequent cleaning to maintain its finish.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,489 now$4,489€3,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Thomann Classic TF547 L is a solid, affordable tenor trombone for students and intermediate players. The large bore delivers a full, warm tone, and the included Super Slide is a nice touch for reliable intonation. It’s a great option for those wanting a traditional feel without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Large bore provides a rich, resonant low range.
- Nickel silver outerslides offer smooth, responsive action.
- Ergonomic thumb levers improve playing comfort and control.
Cons
- Traditional closed wrap may limit high register projection slightly.
- Lacquer finish, while clear, might show wear more readily than heavier coatings.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$583 now$583€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Startone trombone is a fantastic entry point for students or players on a tight budget. The ABS construction keeps it incredibly light and easy to manage, while the Bb/F keys provide a surprising amount of flexibility. It’s a great practice instrument, but don’t expect the same resonance as a higher-end brass model.
Pros
- Lightweight ABS construction makes it very easy to handle
- Bb/F configuration expands range and versatility for players
- Includes a soft gig bag for convenient transport and storage
Cons
- ABS plastic won't offer the tonal complexity of brass
- Mouthpiece quality is likely basic, may need upgrading later
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$156 now$156€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size8.5"
The Jupiter JTB1150FRQ is a solid, well-built tenor trombone offering a good balance of quality and affordability. Its gold brass bell delivers a pleasing, warm tone, making it a great option for high school and college students, or serious amateurs looking to upgrade from a beginner instrument. The F-attachment adds considerable flexibility for those venturing into more complex repertoire.
Pros
- Gold brass bell provides a warm, resonant tone.
- Nickel silver outer slide offers smooth, reliable action.
- F-attachment expands range and versatility for advanced players.
Cons
- The 215mm bell might feel a bit large for smaller players.
- Nickel silver slides require more diligent care to prevent sticking.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,457 now$1,457€1,298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size8"
The Thomann proBONE 4 M is a surprisingly capable tenor trombone for the price. It's got a decent warm tone and a solid feel, making it a great option for intermediate players or those looking for a reliable, affordable horn for student bands and general playing. The F-attachment adds some versatility, too.
Pros
- Solid leadpipe enhances response and intonation across the range.
- Brass bell provides a warm, resonant tone with good projection.
- Nickel silver exterior offers a durable and attractive finish.
Cons
- The lacquer finish, while clear, might be prone to wear with heavy use.
- The included mouthpiece is adequate, but a player may want an upgrade.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,065 now$1,065€949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 49 tenor trombones with F-Attachment
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Thomann proBONE 4 GM Bb-/F-Tenor TrombThomann44Stable$1,088€969$1,088€969Check ↗
- 12
Yamaha YSL-620 TromboneYamaha43Stable$3,365€2,998$3,365€2,998Check ↗
- 13
Yamaha YSL-882 GOII TromboneYamaha · 3 finishes43Stable$4,263€3,798$4,263€3,798Check ↗
- 14
S.E. Shires TBQ30GR Bb/F Tenor TromboneS.E. Shires42Stable$3,535€3,149$3,535€3,149Check ↗
- 15
S.E. Shires TBQAlessi Bb/F Tenor TromboneS.E. Shires42Stable$4,151€3,698$4,151€3,698Check ↗
- 16
Jupiter JTB1100FRQ Bb/F-Tenor TromboneJupiter41Stable$1,604€1,429$1,604€1,429Check ↗
- 17
Jupiter JTB710FRQ Bb/F TromboneJupiter41Stable$1,638€1,459$1,638€1,459Check ↗
- 18
Bach TB-450B Bb/F-TromboneBach · 2 finishes41Stable$1,862€1,659$1,862€1,659Check ↗
- 19
Kühnl & Hoyer .527 Bb/F-Tenor Trombone MKühnl & Hoyer · 2 finishes41Stable$4,039€3,598$4,039€3,598Check ↗
- 20
C.G.Conn 52H Bb/F-Tenor TromboneC.G.Conn41Stable$4,141€3,689$4,141€3,689Check ↗
- 21
Kühnl & Hoyer .547 Bb/F- Tenor Trombone MKühnl & Hoyer · 2 finishes41Stable$4,263€3,798$4,263€3,798Check ↗
- 22
C.G.Conn 88HNV Bb/F-TromboneC.G.Conn41Stable$4,937€4,398$4,937€4,398Check ↗
- 23
Gewa Bb/F-Trombone 236 FG VisionGewa39Stable$1,963€1,749$1,963€1,749Check ↗
- 24
Gewa Bb/F-Trombone 242 FG VisionGewa39Stable$1,963€1,749$1,963€1,749Check ↗
- 25
Gewa Bb/F-Trombone 342 F VisionGewa39Stable$2,355€2,098$2,355€2,098Check ↗
- 26
Jupiter JTB1160FRQ Bb/F TromboneJupiter · 2 finishes38Stable$2,076€1,849$2,076€1,849Check ↗
- 27
C.G.Conn 88HO Bb/F-Tenor TromboneC.G.Conn · 2 finishes38Stable$4,825€4,298$4,825€4,298Check ↗
- 28
Thomann proBONE 2 GM Bb-/F-TenorThomann37Stable$1,120€998$1,120€998Check ↗
- 29
Thomann proBONE 2 M Bb-/F-TenorThomann37Stable$1,120€998$1,120€998Check ↗
- 30
Yamaha YSL-356R Tenor Trombone w/ F AttachmentYSL-356 G Bb/F-Trombone · Yamaha · 2 finishes37Stable$1,723€1,535$1,723€1,535Check ↗
- 31
Schagerl Academica Bb/F-Tromb. TP-450GSchagerl35Stable$1,615€1,439$1,615€1,439Check ↗
- 32
Schagerl Mnozil Brass TromboneSchagerl35Stable$2,307€2,055$2,307€2,055Check ↗
- 33
Schagerl Mnozil Brass Trombone detach.Schagerl35Stable$2,558€2,279$2,558€2,279Check ↗
- 34
Yamaha YSL-548 GO Bb/F-TromboneYamaha35Stable$3,141€2,798$3,141€2,798Check ↗
- 35
Schagerl Bb/F-Trombone Salzburg GBSchagerl35Stable$3,344€2,979$3,344€2,979Check ↗
- 36
Yamaha YSL-640 TromboneYamaha35Stable$3,365€2,998$3,365€2,998Check ↗
- 37
Schagerl Bb/F-Trombone X-Bone ScrewableSchagerl35Stable$3,681€3,279$3,681€3,279Check ↗
- 38
Schagerl Bb/F-Tromb. Salzburg GB Screw.Schagerl35Stable$3,793€3,379$3,793€3,379Check ↗
- 39
Antoine Courtois AC280BO-1-0 Bb/F- Tenor Tromb.Antoine Courtois34Stable$2,064€1,839$2,064€1,839Check ↗
- 40
Michael Rath R400 Bb-/F- Tenor TromboneMichael Rath34Stable$2,916€2,598$2,916€2,598Check ↗
- 41
Michael Rath R300 Bb-/F- Tenor TromboneMichael Rath34Stable$2,974€2,649$2,974€2,649Check ↗
- 42
B&S 3085B-L Bb/F- TromboneB&S34Stable$3,546€3,159$3,546€3,159Check ↗
- 43
C.G.Conn 88 H Bb/F-Tenor TromboneC.G.Conn34Stable$4,204€3,745$4,204€3,745Check ↗
- 44
C.G.Conn 88HTO Tenor TromboneC.G.Conn34Stable$4,915€4,379$4,915€4,379Check ↗
- 45
Sierman STB-560 Tenor TromboneSierman33Stable$999€890$999€890Check ↗
- 46
Sierman STB-665 Tenor TromboneSierman33Stable$1,120€998$1,120€998Check ↗
- 47
Sierman STB-760 Tenor TromboneSierman33Stable$1,794€1,598$1,794€1,598Check ↗
- 48
Sierman STB-865 Tenor TromboneSierman33Stable$2,131€1,898$2,131€1,898Check ↗
- 49
Sierman STB-960 Tenor TromboneSierman33Stable$3,581€3,190$3,581€3,190Check ↗
Tenor Trombones with F-Attachment by the numbers
Measured across all 68 models we track, not a sample.
Median $2,076 — half of all tenor trombones with F-Attachment here cost less.
median of 18 models · 5"–8.5"
median of 6 models · 1.1 kg–1.72 kg
How to choose the best tenor trombones with F-Attachment
Valve Action
A smooth, responsive F-attachment valve is crucial for quick changes and clean articulation. Stiff valves kill your speed and make fast passages a nightmare - look for something that feels buttery, not gritty.
Bell Material & Size
Brass is standard, but the alloy (yellow, gold, red) affects the tone. Larger bells (2.75"+) generally give you more low-end thump and projection, important for cutting through a brass section. Smaller bells are often a bit more focused but can lack that room-filling presence.
Slide Construction & Finish
A well-lapped slide is key to a smooth action and minimal stickiness. Nickel silver slides are common, but a good chrome-plated slide can be just as good. Anything less and you'll be fighting the slide, which is just tiring.
Hand Feel & Neck Profile
This is super subjective, but crucial. The neck profile dictates how comfortably you can reach all the positions. A cramped or bulky neck will hinder your technique. Try before you buy if at all possible.
Overall Resonance & Timbre
We're looking for a horn that sings. It should have a clear, focused core tone, with enough sustain to really let notes ring. Avoid horns that sound muffled or have a harsh, brittle edge - that kind of coloration doesn't translate well to recording.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're in the market for a tenor trombone with an F-attachment, but you're not trying to drop five figures. Smart move. That sweet spot under $5000 can get you a serious horn, but you gotta know what to look for - it's not just about the brass and bells, it's about the feel, the response, and whether it'll cut through a loud big band or record cleanly in a studio. Let's break down the best options you can realistically walk away with.
At this price point, you're finding horns that are genuinely capable. The biggest trade-offs will be in the slide finish (some will require more maintenance) and the overall refinement of the valve. Don't get hung up on bells being 'special' alloys unless you're really chasing a particular tone - it's often more about the overall design.
Prioritize a comfortable hand feel and a responsive slide - those are the things that will impact your playing more than a few grams of brass.
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 68 tenor trombones with F-Attachment from the Thomann catalogue. 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 yellow and gold brass?
Yellow brass tends to be brighter and more responsive, while gold brass is a bit darker and warmer. It's a subtle difference, and often more about marketing than a massive sonic leap.
Should I be concerned about a horn needing a 'break-in' period?
Absolutely. New slides will always be a little stiff initially. Regular playing and occasional oiling will smooth things out considerably. Don't expect perfection right out of the case.
I'm a student - is an F-attachment really necessary?
It expands your range and gives you more versatility, especially if you're playing in a band or orchestra. It's a significant investment in your playing, but a worthwhile one if you're serious.
What about used horns? Can I get more for my money?
Definitely. You can often find higher-end horns from a few years ago within your budget. Just be sure to have it checked by a qualified repair tech before you buy - slide integrity is key.
I play primarily in a small jazz combo. Does size matter?
Less so. A smaller bell might be slightly more focused for intimate settings, but a larger bell won't necessarily overwhelm. Prioritize feel and response over bell size in that scenario.
