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Courtois 501R Bb/F Bass Trombone

Posted: Wed Oct 18, 2023 9:55 am
by Merv66
Recently bought a 25 yr old single plug Bb/F Courtois 501R bass trombone in great condition. Got in touch with Courtois/Buffet Crampon and the serial number confirms manufacture in the Amboise factory in September 1998. This instrument was never ‘pushed’ apparently and was not a big seller for whatever reason I’m told. I’m new to trombones from BBb tuba and think it plays great. It’s in great nick and had it serviced by an instrument technician. It’s open wrap and only cost £400.
Has anyone any experience of this particular model. How
would it rate against a Yamaha YBL421GE bass of similar age?
Any comments appreciated

Re: Courtois 501R Bb/F Bass Trombone

Posted: Thu Oct 26, 2023 8:08 pm
by timbone
WOW, great find! Well, not a lot of press for Courtois sadly, and not a lot of press for single valve based, but I have played them and they feel great. I compared them to an old Holton single I had- great barkability!

Re: Courtois 501R Bb/F Bass Trombone

Posted: Thu Oct 26, 2023 8:10 pm
by timbone
When you can dial up a low c on those it is really great!

Re: Courtois 501R Bb/F Bass Trombone

Posted: Tue Oct 31, 2023 12:08 pm
by Merv66
Thanks I’m encouraged.Yes can get low C

Re: Courtois 501R Bb/F Bass Trombone

Posted: Tue Oct 31, 2023 12:11 pm
by Merv66
I also bought a 20 yr old Yamaha YBL421GE in beautiful condition but cost £1200! As a novice I feel
the sound of the Courtois is superior. It is open wrap. The Yammie is closed/semi closed wrap