S.E. Shires Model Q39GR Q-Series Contrabass Trombone with Rotax Valves

S.E. Shires Q39GR Contrabass Trombone Overview

The S.E. Shires Model Q39GR Q-Series Contrabass Trombone is a modern, American-tuned contrabass trombone designed to deliver breadth, clarity, and responsive control across the full register. Built around an independent F/C/Db/A valve system with Rotax rotary valves, the Q39GR offers stable intonation and fluid transitions while keeping the valve layout familiar to bass trombonists. A .590 inch bore and a 10.5 inch two-piece gold brass detachable-flare bell support a broad, resonant sound with depth and presence, finished in clear lacquer and supplied with a factory S.E. Shires case, mouthpiece, and care kit.

S.E. Shires Q39GR Contrabass Trombone Specifications

• Instrument: Contrabass trombone
• Key: F/C/Db/A (independent), American tuning
• Bore: .590 inch
• Valves: Rotax rotary valves
• Bell: 10.5 inch, two-piece gold brass, detachable flare, soldered bead
• Finish: Clear lacquer
• Case: S.E. Shires case
• Accessories: Mouthpiece, care kit

Condition & Setup

New. This instrument has been professionally serviced, set up, and play-tested to confirm proper valve function, slide action, and overall performance.

Who the Q39GR Contrabass Trombone Is For

The Q39GR contrabass trombone is an American-tuned, independent-valve contrabass trombone built for players who need a powerful low-brass voice with clear response and secure control. Because its F/C/Db/A configuration parallels common bass trombone valve layouts, many scale patterns and technical habits transfer directly from bass trombone, helping experienced bass trombonists adapt quickly while encouraging an effective balance between valve use and extended-position slide technique.

This model is well-suited for orchestral and large-ensemble work where projection and stability are required, and it also supports solo and chamber playing where clarity and clean transitions matter. The .590 inch bore and 10.5 inch detachable-flare yellow brass bell are designed to provide a broad, resonant core sound with depth and color while retaining the refinement and characteristic response associated with S.E. Shires instruments.

Common Questions About the S.E. Shires Q39GR

What does “American tuning” mean on the Q39GR?

American tuning on the Q39GR refers to the independent F/C/Db/A system arranged to feel familiar to bass trombonists, with valve combinations and patterns that closely parallel standard bass trombone valve layouts.

What is a Rotax Rotary Valve?

A Rotax valve is a specialized rotary valve design used on high-end brass instruments that helps bridge the gap between European and American tuning concepts. Its defining feature is a distinctive internal rotor geometry that begins relatively flat and transitions into an expanding shape, reducing air turbulence and allowing for smoother airflow back into the instrument. In practice, Rotax valves are prized for their light, fast action and the “solid core” they provide in the low register, a quality many players consider essential for contrabass performance. They also offer a notably centered and secure response, often feeling more stable than axial-flow valves while retaining quickness. As a result, Rotax valves combine the free-blowing efficiency of modern valve designs with the tactile feedback and clarity associated with traditional rotary systems.

What is the advantage of the detachable-flare bell?

The 10.5 in detachable-flare bell improves portability and supports flexibility in feel and response while retaining the core tonal characteristics of a two-piece gold brass bell.

We are proud to be an authorized S.E. Shires dealer