F.E.Olds “RECORDING” R-20 Narrow Bore Tenor Bass Trombone

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Product Details
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"Is it a masterpiece or a flawed instrument? --The answer will become clear when you play it."
F.E. Olds “RECORDING” R20

[Summary]
F.E. Olds narrow-bore tenor bass trombone, recording. 8-inch red brass bell. 495'-510' dual bore slide. Flat-wrap F-attachment. Outer slide, end crook: nickel. Inner slide: Hexagonal inner slide (double-octagonal fluted inner slide tubes). Accessories: Original hard case (with erased lettering on the lid). Manufactured in 1978.

[Condition]
A small piece of lacquer paint chip (about the size of a postage stamp) on the bell flare (likely from adhesive residue of a patch, etc.) > Manicure repair. Otherwise, there are only scattered scratches on the bell flare and tuning slide. It maintains a beautiful condition that belies its age. All parts have been serviced and inspected.

[Features]
The R20 tenor bass trombone from the flagship "RECORDING" series, crafted by F.E. Olds (*).
Developed with the aim of achieving high performance in recording studios, this model is a culmination of Olds' technology and ideas at the time.

The first thing that catches the eye is the hexagonal inner slide.
This design, called the "double-octagonal fluted" structure, is designed to achieve both rigidity and smooth movement.
It may look unconventional, but it's all for the sake of function.
This shape is the result of seriously pursuing perfection.

Another distinctive feature is the flat-wrapped F-tube layout.
The straight-line arrangement of the forms clearly conveys a strong sense of intent.
Of course, there must be design intentions such as the flow of air and balance.
But more than that,
"What would happen if we lined them up this flat?"
"If no one else is doing it, we want to try it" --
It also looks as if the impulse of such engineers has been directly translated into this form.

The pursuit of rationality and a frontier spirit.
Both are overflowing, and a little spills out—
This lovable quirk is also a major charm of the Recording R20.

The bell uses Re-O-Loy material, a type of red brass.
The result is a warm, rich, and somewhat sticky sound.
Unlike the sharpness of modern trombones, it delivers sound with thickness and presence.

The slide is a dual bore of .495/.510. It ensures mobility while also providing versatility as an F-attached instrument. Rather than being designed to overpower large ensembles, this instrument is designed to thoroughly explore "how it sounds" within an ensemble and recording.

This instrument may not be the right answer for everyone.
However, when it clicks, its appeal is immense.
This is one answer that the prestigious Olds has seriously arrived at.
Whether it's a masterpiece or a flawed instrument—
The final judgment is made the moment you pick it up and produce a sound.

*Founded in California in 1908. By consistently incorporating cutting-edge technology and acquiring numerous patents, the company leads other manufacturers. It produces many excellent instruments, making it a favorite brand among professional musicians in the United States.

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Please note that all items are for sale in our Tokyo store.
There is a chance they might be sold out. All items are shipped tracked and insured. All import duties or customs fees are the buyers responsibility - please be aware of the requirements for your country. If you have any questions please ask.