S.E. Shires Q38GR Contrabass Trombone Overview
The S.E. Shires Q38GR is a professional Q-Series F contrabass trombone designed for the depth, breadth, and flexibility required in specialized low-brass writing. Its independent European-tuning Rotax valve system provides an expanded low register and practical alternate-position choices, while the gold brass bell version offers a different tonal concept from the yellow brass Q38YR. This particular instrument includes a Shires case, Laskey mouthpiece, and maintenance supplies.
S.E. Shires Q38GR Contrabass Trombone Specifications
- Instrument Type: F contrabass trombone
- Key and Tuning: F/D/Bb/Ab European tuning
- Finish: Clear lacquer
- Bore Size: 0.590 inch
- Bell Diameter: 10.5 inches
- Bell Construction: Detachable two-piece gold brass bell with soldered bead
- Valve System: Two independent Rotax valves
- Case: S.E. Shires deluxe backpack case with wheels
- Accessories: Laskey 105G large-shank mouthpiece, valve oil, trombone slide lubricant, tuning slide lubricant, and polishing cloth
- Serial Number: 024517
Condition & Setup
This lightly used instrument is in excellent playing order and has been professionally serviced, set up, and play-tested. The clear lacquer and contrasting metal trim present in excellent cosmetic condition, without conspicuous wear in the supplied views. The handslide, valve assemblies, braces, and external hardware are intact, and the case and care items are included as listed.
Who the Q38GR Contrabass Trombone Is For
The Q38GR is intended for professional low-brass players, orchestral specialists, studio musicians, and advanced students who need the authority and extended low register of an F contrabass trombone. Its large bore and 10.5-inch bell support a broad tonal foundation, while the independent valve system offers flexibility for demanding low-register passages. This is a specialized contrabass instrument rather than a direct replacement for a conventional Bb bass trombone in every setting.
Common Questions About the S.E. Shires Q38GR
How does the Q38GR valve system extend the instrument's range?
The two independent Rotax valves provide F/D/Bb/Ab European tuning. This configuration expands the low register and gives the player additional position choices for technical passages and secure interval placement.
How does the Q38GR differ from the Q38YR?
The Q38GR uses a gold brass bell, while the Q38YR uses yellow brass. Gold brass is generally associated with a broader, warmer tonal color, while yellow brass often favors greater brilliance and immediacy.
What should a player expect from the 0.590-inch bore?
The 0.590-inch bore supports the scale and tonal weight expected from a contrabass trombone. It rewards an efficient, well-supported air stream and is best suited to players accustomed to large low-brass instruments.
How can I evaluate if this trombone fits my needs?
Check out our Guide to Shires Q38 and Q39 Contrabass Trombones
We are proud to be an authorized S.E. Shires dealer
In stock! Ships within 1-2 business days
Financing available. Apply directly at checkout
30-day risk-free trial
2-Year Warranty
Complimentary shipping for all U.S. orders over $99
S.E. Shires Q38GR Q-Series Contrabass Trombone with Rotax Valves, Gold Brass Bell
S.E. Shires Q38GR Contrabass Trombone Overview
The S.E. Shires Q38GR is a professional Q-Series F contrabass trombone designed for the depth, breadth, and flexibility required in specialized low-brass writing. Its independent European-tuning Rotax valve system provides an expanded low register and practical alternate-position choices, while the gold brass bell version offers a different tonal concept from the yellow brass Q38YR. This particular instrument includes a Shires case, Laskey mouthpiece, and maintenance supplies.
S.E. Shires Q38GR Contrabass Trombone Specifications
- Instrument Type: F contrabass trombone
- Key and Tuning: F/D/Bb/Ab European tuning
- Finish: Clear lacquer
- Bore Size: 0.590 inch
- Bell Diameter: 10.5 inches
- Bell Construction: Detachable two-piece gold brass bell with soldered bead
- Valve System: Two independent Rotax valves
- Case: S.E. Shires deluxe backpack case with wheels
- Accessories: Laskey 105G large-shank mouthpiece, valve oil, trombone slide lubricant, tuning slide lubricant, and polishing cloth
- Serial Number: 024517
Condition & Setup
This lightly used instrument is in excellent playing order and has been professionally serviced, set up, and play-tested. The clear lacquer and contrasting metal trim present in excellent cosmetic condition, without conspicuous wear in the supplied views. The handslide, valve assemblies, braces, and external hardware are intact, and the case and care items are included as listed.
Who the Q38GR Contrabass Trombone Is For
The Q38GR is intended for professional low-brass players, orchestral specialists, studio musicians, and advanced students who need the authority and extended low register of an F contrabass trombone. Its large bore and 10.5-inch bell support a broad tonal foundation, while the independent valve system offers flexibility for demanding low-register passages. This is a specialized contrabass instrument rather than a direct replacement for a conventional Bb bass trombone in every setting.
Common Questions About the S.E. Shires Q38GR
How does the Q38GR valve system extend the instrument's range?
The two independent Rotax valves provide F/D/Bb/Ab European tuning. This configuration expands the low register and gives the player additional position choices for technical passages and secure interval placement.
How does the Q38GR differ from the Q38YR?
The Q38GR uses a gold brass bell, while the Q38YR uses yellow brass. Gold brass is generally associated with a broader, warmer tonal color, while yellow brass often favors greater brilliance and immediacy.
What should a player expect from the 0.590-inch bore?
The 0.590-inch bore supports the scale and tonal weight expected from a contrabass trombone. It rewards an efficient, well-supported air stream and is best suited to players accustomed to large low-brass instruments.
How can I evaluate if this trombone fits my needs?
Check out our Guide to Shires Q38 and Q39 Contrabass Trombones
We are proud to be an authorized S.E. Shires dealer
Pairs well with
In stock! Ships within 1-2 business days
Financing available. Apply directly at checkout
30-day risk-free trial
2-Year Warranty
Complimentary shipping for all U.S. orders over $99
S.E. Shires Q38GR Q-Series Contrabass Trombone with Rotax Valves, Gold Brass Bell
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible, within 24 hours on weekdays.
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Shipping Information
Orders valued over $99 ship via FedEx 2-Day within the U.S. and via DHL internationally. A physical address (no P.O. Boxes) and signature are required. Smaller accessories ship via USPS (2–5 day service) and do not require a signature if valued under $99. Please see our FAQ for additional details.
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Return Policy
We offer an unconditional 30-day return policy to ensure you’re completely satisfied. If you’re unhappy for any reason, return the item for a full refund or full exchange credit (reeds and other consumables are non-returnable once opened). Every instrument we sell is guaranteed to be free of mechanical defects—if an issue arises, contact us and we’ll either reimburse a local repair or provide a prepaid return label for repair, exchange, or refund. If you simply change your mind, you may still return the item for a full refund, but return shipping costs are the customer’s responsibility unless free returns were purchased through Redo at checkout. Please see our FAQ for additional details.
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Shop Warranty:
Brand new items are covered by the full manufacturer’s warranty unless otherwise noted (see the individual maker for details). Open box/refurbished, used, and vintage items include a two-year warranty serviced by our in-house repair shop, and we guarantee every instrument will be free of mechanical defects. Warranty coverage does not include damage from accident, misuse, negligence, improper operation, unauthorized alterations or removed serial numbers, normal wear and routine maintenance, environmental damage (including perspiration, corrosion, or extreme temperature and humidity), lacquer or plating wear, or consumable parts such as springs, pads, and felts. Please see our FAQ for additional details.