For more than a half a century, E.K. Blessing has offered an accessible large bore, F-attachment trombone that is acknowledged by educators as an excellent value for the aspiring trombonist. Based on a classic American design, the playing experience is on par with many professional level instruments in sound and projection. The Performance BTB1488 trombones are an affordable choice without compromising playability.

All BTB1488 trombone hand slides feature a rose brass outer slide with nickel end bow and narrow width construction. A narrow hand slide helps facilitate faster slide technique, quicker response, greater sound focus, with more clarity in articulation. Additionally, a narrow hand may provide a more comfortable grip in the hands of a student. Wrap Options: Traditional vs. Open The term wrap refers to the configuration of additional tubing for the F-attachment section of the trombone. Closed Wrap - Traditional or closed wrap trombones have a tighter wrap tubing which provides a more resistant playing instrument. Open Wrap - The open wrap has fewer bends and a straighter pathway for the air; providing a freer blowing option.

The BTB1488 features new F attachment bracing allowing for improved response and greater resonance. Bell Options: Yellow Brass vs. Rose Brass Yellow brass (70% copper 30% zinc) - Yellow brass offers a consistent timbre at all dynamic levels and registers with wonderful projection. Rose brass (85% copper 15% zinc) - Due to the higher copper content, the rose bell is a darker bell at softer dynamic levels but will become more brilliant at forte to fortissimo. Finish Options: Lacquer Finish vs. Silver Plate Lacquer is a clear epoxy protective coating that is sprayed onto the instrument in the finishing process to maintain its clean appearance. Since it is thicker than plating, it tends to offer more focus and support to the sound.

The following Blessing BTB1488 trombone models have a lacquer finish: BTB1488 and BTB1488R closed wrap and BTB1488O and BTB1488OR open wrap. Silver plating is thinner than lacquer providing more resonance and brilliance, which is ideal for outdoor performance. However, a silver-plated horn will require more maintenance because it will tarnish over time. The following Blessing BTB1488 trombone models are silver plated: BTB1488S closed wrap and BTB1488OS open wrap. Both have yellow brass bells.