The Benchmark of Symphonic Trombones If you've spent any time around professional trombone sections, you've seen a Conn 88HO on a stand. Since its introduction in 1954, this horn has become something of a standard-setter — the instrument that generations of serious players have gravitated toward when they need depth, control, and dynamic range that can hold up from a whispered pianissimo to a full-bore orchestral fortissimo. It's the kind of horn that earns its reputation one rehearsal at a time. The 88HO is C.G. Conn's "Symphony" model — a Bb/F tenor trombone built specifically for the demands of symphonic and solo performance. What sets it apart isn't one flashy feature; it's the combination of choices Conn made across the whole instrument. Rose brass bell and outer slide, chrome-plated nickel silver inner slide, dual-bore design, open-wrap F attachment — every detail has a purpose, and together they add up to a horn that players describe as genuinely responsive at every dynamic level. Whether you're taking a chair in a community orchestra, heading into a professional audition, or simply stepping up to an instrument that won't hold you back, the 88HO has been the answer for over seven decades. A Dual-Bore Design That Opens Things Up The 88HO uses a dual-bore setup: a .547" primary bore that expands to .562" once you engage the open-wrap F attachment. That wider bore through the valve section eliminates the airflow resistance that can make closed-wrap designs feel stuffy in the lower register. The result is a more consistent feel between the open and valve sides of the horn — slide and trigger work that flows naturally rather than fighting you. The open-wrap routing also gives you access to alternate positions and a full chromatic range down to pedal Bb. For players dealing with fast passages or extended low-register writing, that freedom is genuinely useful, not just a spec on paper. Rose Brass Bell and Slide — Warm, Not Muddy The 8.5" bell is made from rose brass — an alloy with a higher copper content than yellow brass — which gives the 88HO its characteristic sound. Players often find rose brass instruments project with warmth and depth while maintaining clarity in articulation, especially in the upper-middle register where tenor trombones spend a lot of their time. The outer handslide is also rose brass, extending that tonal consistency through the slide itself. Chrome-plated nickel silver inner handslide tubes keep slide action smooth and quick. The yellow brass tuning slide and F attachment section round out the overall response, while the clear lacquer finish adds a subtle warmth to the instrument's resonance overall. Built for Both the Section and the Soloist The 88HO is equally at home as part of a trombone section or out front on a solo. The standard rotor valve uses a fully mechanical linkage for reliable, fast triggering. Whether you're cutting through in a big orchestral tutti or shaping a lyrical phrase on your own, the horn responds without fighting you at the extremes. The clear lacquer finish protects the instrument while giving it a classic, warm visual character that matches the sound. If you prefer silver plate, the 88HOSP is the same instrument in that finish. Product Features: Instrument type: Bb/F Tenor Trombone with open-wrap F attachment Bore: .547" primary bore, expanding to .562" through the F attachment (dual-bore) Bell: 8.5" rose brass, two-piece construction Outer handslide: Rose brass for warm, resonant tone Inner handslide: Chrome-plated nickel silver for smooth, fast action Tuning slide: Yellow brass F attachment: Open-wrap design with standard rotor valve and mechanical linkage Finish: Clear lacquer Heritage: 88H series in continuous production since 1954 Brand: C.G. Conn Model: 88HO Symphony SKU: 88HO Condition: New Since 1872, C.A. House Music has been helping musicians across the Ohio Valley find the right gear -- with real advice from a team that actually plays. We're your authorized dealer of all the big names in guitars, keyboards, band instruments, drums, pro audio, and more. With four family-owned and operated locations in Ohio and West Virginia (plus a full online store), you don't have to go far for instruments, lessons, rentals, and repairs. No matter your musical needs, our team of musicians wants to help you Play Music for Life.
