Hello,

I was hoping someone who had played both could give me their thought on the differences. I am not a young man anymore and am looking for a replacement for my Edwards 454E from 1992. I wonder if the 502i is easier to play or more efficient than my B454. I like the Edwards sound but don't want to work as hard!

Thoughts?

MB

I'd say it is, yes. You could also get a CRE valve section for a 454 that will really change the instrument in an easier direction.

Aidan,

Are the CRE valves the same as the AR valves???

No. They are the power bore rotors seen here:

<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.edwards-instruments.com/tro ... ne-valves/">https://www.edwards-instruments.com/trombone-options/bass-trombone-valves/</LINK_TEXT>

I've played a set, great valves.

I have owned the following Edwards bass models in this order: 454E, 454DE, 502i, and now a 454CR-E.

The 454E was my bass of choice for almost 15 years but tried a dependent axial setup I thought I liked. After an initial period of liking the dependent axial setup I began to feel it was too open for me. So then I got a 502i, but the sound was not what I was looking for. So I made a trip to Elkhorn and chose a CR-E setup. Even with a dual bore slide it had the right balance. I currently play a CR-E setup on both bass and tenor.

Honestly, if you have the means to get to Elkhorn, do it. It wasn't as much money as I thought and the end result was better for me. Christan and Jesse won't steer you wrong. Also while you are in WI you can try M&W too. Matthew is a world class dude. Greenhoe is not far away either. Trust me its worth it.

I second the trip to Elkhorn. Best trip I ever made