King Model Identification

[Zappa]

I recently picked up a large bore King with F-attachment at an estate sale. I've tracked the serial# to 1961-62 but I don't how to identify the model. I'm hoping some of the astute trombone minds here can help. Following are links to 5 pics of the horn. Thanks in advance for any help.

~Don

https://artweb.org/King_01.jpg
https://artweb.org/King_02.jpg
https://artweb.org/King_03.jpg
https://artweb.org/King_04.jpg
https://artweb.org/King_05.jpg

[BGuttman]

Looks like a King Symphony (later the 5B). The bell should be 9 inches (225 mm). Single bore slide 0.547" (13.9 mm).

[Kingfan]

Nice score!

[Burgerbob]

Nice 1480! Mine is similar vintage, .536 bore.

[hyperbolica]

I've got a 1961 1480 as well with a slightly different wrap. I'd suggest a small counterweight to balance it, and then decide tenor or bass. Something around 3g will work for a beefy tenor and 1.5g-1.25g will make a ripping single valve bass.

There was a big discussion on this model a few weeks ago. I go back and forth on mine. Right now I think it's a great 3/4th bone without being a full-on bass. You'll have to make up your own mind on it.

[Zappa]

Interesting you suggested a counter weight. The first thing I noticed is it’s very front heavy. Thanx.

[KingThings]

I finally got mine back from a rebuild. My tech added a counterweight that works perfectly, and the instrument is now nicely balanced and a joy to hold. I would definitely recommend a counterweight of some kind.

I use the original King mouthpiece (the King 29) which is a bit like a Bach 3 and I am currently using the 1480 as a big tenor with no issues.

It has a really nice tone, great slide, and high notes are easy. Mine is a 1964 dual bore (.536/.547) all brass.