The general level of the instrument, the finish used on it, the material the bell is made of, and any accessories included are the main factors that affect the cost of a trombone. The cost of a trombone made by a reputable manufacturer is usually higher than that of a low-cost manufacturer. Potential trombone buyers can choose between student, intermediate, and advanced trombones based on the overall quality of the instrument. Lacquer finishes are more expensive than silver or gold plated finishes. Bells made of sterling silver or nickel add to the instrument’s cost.
The level of the instrument is the most basic factor that influences the price of a trombone. Student trombones aren’t built to the same high standards as professional trombones, and the price reflects this. The student trombone is the most affordable trombone available. Trombones at the professional or advanced level are the most expensive. Instruments at the intermediate level have a price that falls somewhere in the middle of these other categories.
The finish that is applied to the outside of the trombone has an impact on the price. Lacquer is the most common and also the most affordable finish. Silver plated finishes don’t dampen the instrument’s sound as much as lacquer does, but they’re also more expensive. The main disadvantage of silver plated finishes is the amount of upkeep they necessitate. In terms of tone, gold finishes are comparable to silver and are more durable, making them even more expensive.
A trombone’s cost is also affected by the material used to make the instrument’s bell. The majority of trombone bells are made of yellow brass, which is commonly used on student trombones. Intermediate instruments frequently use rose brass, which is slightly more expensive but produces a warmer tone. Sterling silver and nickel, which are used on professional level trombones, are the most expensive bell materials. The sound produced by these high-end materials is far more rich than that produced by lower-cost materials.
The cost of a trombone is affected by any accessories included with the instrument. A counterweight, for example, is a piece of equipment used to balance the trombone and prevent it from becoming bell-heavy. This raises the price of the instrument while also making the tone warmer. Some instruments also include oils that can be used to maintain the instrument’s quality. The higher the price, the more accessories are included with the instrument.