JP Rath 333 Bass Trombone
$2,950.00
Item Details
The JP Byline
The JP333 Rath is John Packer's Double Valve Bass Trombone and is suitable for musicians who are looking for a mid range/pro level instrument perfectly suited to orchestral playing, in a brass band section and also in a trombone section in a big band.
The JP333 Bass Trombone has a broad and free sound, developed in collaboration with UK trombone guru Michael Rath. This JP Rath design combines a double in-line rotary valve with a modern open wrap style.
The development of the JP333 Rath saw the instrument finely balanced, with the help of the counterweight, to ensure an excellent playing experience for musicians of all levels.
Specs
- Model: JP333 Rath
- Key: Bb/F/Gb/D
- Bell Size: High Grade Brass 241mm (9.5")
- Valves: Rotary 2 inline
- Bore: Large 14.27mm (.562")
- Water Key: Lever 1
- Body: High Grade Brass
- Finish: Gold Lacquer
- Lyre: No
- Mouthpiece: Yes
- Lubricants: Ultra Pure
- Leadpipe: Michael Rath Leadpipe, fixed
- Instrument: 2.62Kg (5lb 12oz)
- Case: 5.08Kg (11lb 3oz)
Steve Says
March 2022 I have two JPRath 333 bass trombones in stock. I bought them a couple of years ago and just had time to get to these to do photos and whatnot. I don't know if the current 333 trombones are identical to these. This is important because the tuning slide sleeves were too long on both these trombones. I took them both to Robb Stewart and may the Lord bless him, he was able to shorten both horns and touch up the lacquer so it looks very nice. And now you can play up to pitch. I suspect the original product tester of this model played a little sharp and said, "Needs to be longer." It didn't, but things happen.
The price is a little lower on these than new factory fresh JP models because of the length adjustment. A deal for you, one-year guarantee from me.
The JP Rath 333 is half to two-thirds the price of many other bass trombones. Is it ok? Yes, with some caveats. Chrome plated slide tubes from china never seem to be quite as smooth as US chrome tubes. Close but not the same. It just means I need to fuss over them more before sale. The rotor and linkage action is smooth, but I think over time you'll need a little thicker oil to keep things quiet. Also oil the rotors before you put it away for some time. These may be more likely to stick during storage. The open-wrap rotor loops are thoughtfully designed for good ergonomics and the long sweeping curves look great and reduce solder joints. Though not listed in the specs, the bell does have a more rose gold color to it than the other tubes. The gold lacquer on the JP instruments is smooth and also unusual with a gold tint and glittery colors within it. It's subtle and different.
A lightweight fiberglass case with backpack straps is included. It's not quite Marcus Bonna quality, but it's the same style and is well done.
A mouthpiece is included. I don't imagine it's anything special, but several other JP models have included mouthpieces that were about as good as anything, so do give it a try.
I like that JP is making trombones for adults. These tend to have lighter bells than the utility models from Yamaha and Jupiter and the response shows. This is a fun horn to play. In many ways it's about as good as my old custom Minick trombone from 40 years ago. They certainly paid attention to get it right at a very nice price.
