Because an airtight valve is essential to quick response and centered feel in all registers, S.E. Shires chooses to produce all of our valves. We thoroughly test for tight fit and perfect action at every stage of manufacture.

The valve controls much more than the low register: articulation, sound density, and stability of the sustained tone is affected by each valve type.

All S.E. Shires bells are handcrafted in using traditional techniques. Shires bells—known for their rich sound, easy response, and incredible projection—benefit from decades of experience designing and spinning bells.

Handslides control the initial feel of the instrument. Handslide bore size, width, crook size, alloys and weights are contributing factors for handslides.

Our slide tubing is drawn to precise tolerances and then carefully assembled, aligned, and stress relieved to assure the smooth, trouble-free action that has become the hallmark of S.E. Shires trombones.

Trombone tuning slides can effect resistance, response, and color of the instrument.

S.E. Shires trombone tuning slides are engineered with a unique, smooth, double-radius design. They combine the best characteristics of single- and double-radius tuning slides in terms of timbre, response, and intonation.

The leadpipe is the first point of contact with the player after the mouthpiece. It plays an important role in determining the overall feel and sound of the instrument.

The diameter of the venturi, the material of the pipe and its length all have a significant effect on the instrument's playing characteristics.

Want to learn more about our Custom Series components? Enter the catalogue.