The new Yamaha 871 alto trombone is a new addition to Yamaha's Xeno line of trombones. If you have ever played or still play the popular 671 Yamaha Alto, you will find this model to be quite an improved instrument!
With each improved model that Yamaha offer, it never ceases to amaze me the subtle changes that seem to make such a dramatic affect on the instrument overall.
From what I have noticed the .470/.490" bore hand slide now has nickel outer tubes, with soldered on nickel over sleeves. The crook is yellow brass.
The tuning slide bow has been shortened, which allows for a longer hand slide that actually gives you a full seven positions. (Not 6 1/2 like some other well known brands). This of course means that E's and A's can be played in tune with out the need to fear overreaching the slide off the end of the inner tubes.
The hand braces are brass with nickel trim, rather than all nickel, and the tuning slide brace is a larger diameter. Also, the cork barrels are the two-piece "Xeno" design.
The bell seems to be slightly heavier, which helps to lock in the core of the sound and provide greater projection. The bell throat has been opened up which gives the 871 a lovely broad sound, whilst still providing tremendous clarity in articulations.
Across the entire instruments range, the Yamaha 871 is very even and secure, offers a beautifully rich sound and the slide to bell ratio feels much the same as any tenor trombone.
In my honest opinion the Yamaha 671 Alto generally lacked that little bit of sparkle in the sound, or what some players call "soul". The 871 gives you the flexibility to shape your own sound, you no longer feel as though you are confined to driving on rails you are free to go in what ever direction you desire.
My hat goes off to the team behind the design and manufacturing of this model! Well done Yamaha.
So take note, a worthy competitor for all Alto trombones has hit the Australian market, is priced fairly, and will be sure leave Alto players extremely impressed upon playing.
| Inner slide |
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The chrome-plated nickel-silver, drawn, inner slide is very durable and has a quick, sensitive response.
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| Outer slide |
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The one-piece, drawn, nickel silver outer slide maintains an accurate diameter throughout its length, and this type of construction ensures airtightness, smooth action, exceptional durability, and offers improved response.
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| Inner slide stockings |
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Specially designed one-piece inner slide stockings guarantee airtight slide construction, and offer smoother slide action and better alignment, even in the extended 6th and 7th positions.
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| Tubular braces |
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Long-lasting nickel-silver tubular braces contribute to the stability of the slide and enhance smooth slide action.
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| Hand-hammered one-piece bell |
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A one-piece bell has an axial (lengthwise) seam, making it a continuous extension of the instrument's material. This results in pure, uniform resonance and superior tone. A hammered yellow brass bell produces a perfectly-balanced tone with quick response and extra presence due to advanced manufacturing techniques.
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| Hand-lapped tuning slide |
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Hand-lapping slides ensures an absolutely perfect fit and seal between the slide parts. Such a perfect fit helps to achieve smooth air flow and smooth action and improve the response and intonation of the instrument.
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| Pressure-formed tubing |
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Perfectly rounded tubing resuslts in less turbulence and a smoother air flow, thus allowing for an excellent scale and reduced resistance.
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| Laser-fused pluzuma welded bell |
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A high-energy laser fuses the brass together for a virtually seamless bell which allows continuous even vibrations.
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| Slide lock |
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The unique slide lock design on all Yamaha trombones keeps the slide locked in place and keeps it from accidentally falling.
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| Bracing |
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The large, easy-to-hold, nickel-silver bracing guards against possible slide damage if the instrument is dropped and also lessens fatigue while playing.
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| Mouthpipe |
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Yamaha trombones have mouthpipes featuring special acoustic designs allowing for precise intonation and greater blowing control.
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Please note that this item is generally a custom order and subject to availability.
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