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NEW Rath R6 tenor trombone

NEW Rath R6 tenor trombone

Sale priceCHF 4,200.00
Condition:
New
SKU: 1211

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Michael Rath R6 (.547" Large Bore) with Hagmann Valve

The Michael Rath R6 is the newest addition to the large-bore lineup, developed over 2023 and 2024. It isn't meant to replace the R4F—which remains an industry standard for a reason—but rather to offer a distinct alternative for players looking for a different response and "blow."

Just a Different Flavor

What sets the R6 apart comes down to geometry. The bell section is wider than the R4F, and Rath have moved to single-radius bows on the hand slide, F-tuning slide, and main tuning slide. That change is immediately noticeable the moment you start playing: the dynamic range feels more consistent from top to bottom, and the sound has an openness that never feels forced—it just gets out of the way and lets you play.

While the R4F offers a massive range of modular options, the R6 takes a more focused approach with its own purpose-built components. The main tuning slide has a new large taper and a fixed brace replacing the classic 'R' brace. Visually, it gives the horn a cleaner, more traditional profile—but what you'll actually notice is how quickly and reliably the horn centers. Notes just slot. You're not hunting.

Why I Stock the R6 Alongside the R4

It really does come down to personal preference. If you've spent years on an R4F and love how it plays but want something that feels a little more linear through the partials—where the resistance stays steady as you ascend rather than opening up in the upper register—the R6 is worth serious consideration. It's not better — it's just a different feel, and some players pick it up and never look back.

  • The Valve: This horn comes fitted with the Hagmann valve. Given how open the R6's architecture already is, the Hagmann is a natural match—there's no stuffiness when you flip to the F-attachment, even in the low register where rotor horns can feel sluggish.
  • Rounded Bell Rim: Michael introduced a new rounded rim profile with the R6's tooling. It's a subtle thing, but you get more feedback through the bell — you can feel the sound more, which I find helps with control, especially at lower dynamics.

Technical Specs

  • Model: Michael Rath R6 (.547" Large Bore)
  • Bell: 8 1/2" Yellow Brass Flare (New rounded rim profile)
  • Valve: Hagmann Valve
  • Construction: Single-radius bows (Hand slide, F-slide, and Main slide)
  • Main Tuning Slide: R6 Yellow Brass (Large taper with fixed brace)
  • Hand Slide: .547" Yellow Brass
  • Case: Not included

If you've been curious about how the Rath sound can feel in a slightly different package—same rich core, but a touch more directness in how it responds—this is the horn to try. Rath doesn't cut corners, and this horn shows it.

Note: This listing is for the instrument only. Let me know if you need a case and we'll work 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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