For more than a half a century, the EK Blessing BTB-88-OR F Rotor Rose Brass Open Wrap Trombone is acknowledged by educators as an excellent value for the aspiring trombonist. Based on a classic American design, the playing experience is on par with many professional level instruments in sound and projection. The Performance BTB-88 trombone is an affordable choice without compromising playability.
Wrap Options: Traditional vs. Open
The term wrap refers to the configuration of additional tubing for the F-attachment section of the trombone. Closed Wrap - Traditional or closed wrap trombones have a tighter wrap tubing which provides a more resistant playing instrument. Open Wrap - The open wrap has fewer bends and a straighter pathway for the air; providing a freer blowing option.
Bell Options: Yellow Brass vs. Rose Brass
Yellow brass (70% copper 30% zinc) - Yellow brass offers a consistent timbre at all dynamic levels and registers with wonderful projection. Rose brass (85% copper 15% zinc) - Due to the higher copper content, the rose bell is a darker bell at softer dynamic levels but will become more brilliant at forte to fortissimo.
Finish Options: Lacquer Finish vs. Silver Plate
Lacquer is a clear epoxy protective coating that is sprayed onto the instrument in the finishing process to maintain its clean appearance. Since it is thicker than plating, it tends to offer more focus and support to the sound. The following Blessing BTB-88 trombone models have a lacquer finish: BTB-88 and BTB-88R closed wrap and BTB-88-O and BTB-88-OR open wrap. Silver plating is thinner than lacquer providing more resonance and brilliance, which is ideal for outdoor performance. However, a silver-plated horn will require more maintenance because it will tarnish over time. The following Blessing BTB-88 trombone models are silver plated: BTB-88S closed wrap and BTB-88-OS open wrap. Both have yellow brass bells.
Performance Series
- Key: Bb/F
- .547” Large Bore
- 8.5” Bell Diameter
- Traditional or Open Wrap Options
- Clear Epoxy Lacquer or Silver-Plated Finish Options
- Two-piece Yellow Brass or Rose Brass Bell Options
- Traditional F Rotor Design
- Yellow Brass Lead Pipe and Body
- Nickel Silver Chrome-Plated Inside Slide
- Lacquered Nickel Silver Outer Slide
- Large Shank Receiver
- Blessing 6.5AL Trombone Mouthpiece
- Blessing C-88TB Deluxe Case
- Blessing Ultra-Pure Lubricants