Help identifying a Yamaha slide?

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onetrombone
Posts: 11
Joined: Apr 10, 2019

by onetrombone »

I recently acquired a Yamaha trombone slide without the bell. That means I do not have the model or slide number. I'm hoping for some help identifying the slide and leadpipes?

It appears to have the following specs:
  • Small bore--most likely .508
  • Nickel silver outer slide tubes with no oversleeves
  • Yellow brass crook
  • Yamaha logo and "M2" on the mouthpiece receiver
  • Removable screw in leadpipes

It came with three leadpipes that I also know nothing about. they are marked:
  • 1
  • M2
  • M5

Thanks!
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Rusty
Posts: 470
Joined: Jun 01, 2018

by Rusty »

If it is a .508, I would have a guess and say it could be a 691 slide, precursor to the current 891z. I’m not entirely sure whether that came with 3 leadpipes or a fixed pipe though. If you posted some photos, some others may be able to judge the era based on the ferrules and bracing.
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onetrombone
Posts: 11
Joined: Apr 10, 2019

by onetrombone »

We have a winner! That is absolutely what it is. Thank you!!!

Now to figure out what Yamaha's intent is for the three different leadpipes.
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MahlerMusic
Posts: 158
Joined: May 07, 2019

by MahlerMusic »

M2 and M5:

These specific leadpipe models are designed to offer different characteristics. The M2 likely provides a specific response and tone, while the M5 offers a different set of qualities. These differences are achieved through variations in taper (how the leadpipe gradually widens) and the materials used.


got to love the A.I. answer. :lol:
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dcslideman
Posts: 134
Joined: Mar 23, 2022

by dcslideman »

My 691 pipes are marked 1, 2, an 3? No M's, and no 5?
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Digidog
Posts: 483
Joined: Dec 13, 2018

by Digidog »

My since long sold 695 had removable lead pipes, and I think I remember that at least one of those were marked with an "M".
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onetrombone
Posts: 11
Joined: Apr 10, 2019

by onetrombone »

I've decided that my slide is a 691/.508 bore.

Any impressions or knowledge of what Yamaha intended with each leadpipe? So far I get the following:
  • 1 = "most tight"
  • 2 = "in the middle"
  • 3 = "most open"
  • 5 = no one seems to have seen before


What does that mean for actual playing characteristics? So far I find the #1 kind of dull and not as responsive in the staff, but I'm still really getting to know the horn.