Courtois 501R Bb/F Bass Trombone

Login to Reply
M
Merv66
Posts: 26
Joined: Dec 02, 2019

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
T
timbone
Posts: 240
Joined: Apr 30, 2018

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!
T
timbone
Posts: 240
Joined: Apr 30, 2018

by timbone »

When you can dial up a low c on those it is really great!
M
Merv66
Posts: 26
Joined: Dec 02, 2019

by Merv66 » (edited 2023-10-31 3:31 p.m.)

Thanks I’m encouraged.Yes can get low C
M
Merv66
Posts: 26
Joined: Dec 02, 2019

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