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NEW Rath R4F tenor trombone

NEW Rath R4F tenor trombone

Sale priceCHF 4,200.00
Condition:
New
SKU: 1210

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Mouthpiece-only returns

This Michael Rath R4F is a great example of a high-end, orchestral large-bore trombone. I’ve spent some time with this setup, and it’s remarkably consistent. If you’re looking for a horn that feels stable and reliable, this is exactly that.

These trombones are very popular with British brass band players, and I can see why. While they certainly shine in orchestral settings, they really come alive when pushed. If you lean into it—the way you often need to in a brass band context—the sound brightens up nicely and cuts through a tuba section like a hot knife through butter (sorry you tuba players).

Why This Setup Works

While the R3F is a bit of a "chameleon," this R4F is built for the orchestra, wind band or brass band. The 8 1/2" yellow brass bell and yellow brass hand slide provide that classic, warm, and broad sound that blends perfectly in a section. It’s got a lot of "core" to the sound, making it very easy to slot and hold your place in a thick texture.

The standout feature here is the Hagmann valve. My preferred valve because of how little it changes the feel of the horn (and because its Swiss). When you engage the F-attachment, there’s almost no increase in backpressure—it stays open and free-blowing, which is a massive help in the low register.

Versatility through Leadpipes

I’m including two different brass leadpipes with this one to help you dial in the response:

  • 41A Leadpipe: More focused than the 41B, a little more "point" on the front of the note. 

  • 41B Leadpipe: More open - standard leadpipe for the R4. 

Technical Specs

  • Model: Rath R4F (.547" Large Bore)

  • Bell: 8 1/2" Yellow Brass Flare

  • Valve: Hagmann 

  • Main Tuning Slide: Yellow Brass

  • Hand Slide: .547" Yellow Brass

  • Leadpipes: 41B Brass & 41A Brass

  • Case: None included

As with all Rath horns, the slide action is incredible—very light and quiet. If you’ve been fighting a horn that feels stuffy or inconsistent in the middle of the staff, this Hagmann/Yellow Brass combo will likely be a breath of fresh air.

Note: This listing is for the instrument only; no case is included. Let me know if you need a case - we'll figure something out. 

About Michael Rath trombones

To me, Michael Rath sets a standard for high quality trombone building. Based in West Yorkshire, England, they’ve managed to do something very difficult: create a modular trombone system that feels like a solid, handmade instrument rather than a collection of parts.

What really separates Rath from some other brands is the impeccable build quality. When you pick up a Rath, you immediately notice the attention to detail in the soldering, the tight tolerances, and the consistency of the hand-lapped slides. These aren't mass-produced horns; they are precision tools built by a small team that understands exactly what a professional player needs in terms of response and reliability.

Why I Stock Rath

I choose to carry Rath because of the mechanical excellence they bring to every instrument. While the modularity is a great feature, it’s the quality of the craftsmanship that really stands out to me.

  • Superior Slide Action: Rath slides are consistently some of the best in the industry—light, quiet, and incredibly fast.
  • Consistency: You can tell these horns are built one at a time. The fit and finish on the bell flares and tuning slides are always spot on.
  • UK Craftsmanship: There is a level of pride in these UK-made instruments that translates directly to how they play.

Whether you're looking for an R10 for commercial work or a symphonic R4F, a Rath is an investment in quality that you can feel in your hands. Some of these trombones are hard to put down they play so well!

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