F.E. Oles “RECORDING” R-20 Narrow-bore Tenor Bass Trombone

"A masterpiece or a dud? — You'll know the answer when you play it."
F.E. Olds “RECORDING” R20

[Overview]
F.E. Olds narrow-bore tenor bass trombone, “Recording” model. 8-inch red brass bell. 495'-510' dual-bore slide. Flat-wrap F-tube attachment. Outer slide and end crook: nickel-plated. Inner slide: double-octagonal fluted inner slide tubes. Accessories: Original hard case (with eraser marks on the lid). Manufactured in 1978

[Condition]
A stamp-sized area of lacquer peeling on part of the bell flare (presumed to be residue from an adhesive patch such as a badge) > Repaired with nail polish. Otherwise, only scattered scratches on the bell flare and tuning tubes. Maintains excellent condition that shows no signs of its age. Serviced and inspected throughout.

[Features]
The R20 tenor trombone from the "RECORDING" series, the flagship model crafted by F.E. Olds (※) .
Developed with the aim of delivering high performance in recording environments, this model is a testament to the full extent of Olds’ technical expertise and innovative thinking at the time.

The first thing that catches the eye is the hexadecagonal inner slide.
Known as the “double-octagonal fluted” structure, this design balances rigidity with smooth movement.
It may look unconventional, but every detail is for the sake of function.
This shape is the result of a serious pursuit of perfection.

Another distinctive feature is the F-tube layout of this flat-wrap design.
The way they are arranged in a straight line clearly conveys a strong sense of purpose.
Of course, there must be design intentions behind it, such as airflow and balance.
But more than that,
“What would happen if we arranged them this flat?”
“If no one else is doing it, I want to try it”—
It almost seems as though the engineers’ impulses have taken shape right before our eyes.

The pursuit of rationality and a pioneering spirit.
Both overflowing, spilling over just a little—
This endearing quirk is also one of the Recording R20’s greatest charms.

The bell is crafted from Re-O-Loy, a red brass alloy.
The result is a warm, rich, and somewhat resonant sound.
Unlike the sharpness of modern trombones, it delivers sound with depth and presence.

The slide features a .495/.510 dual bore. This ensures maneuverability while also providing the range expected of an F-tube trombone.
Rather than being designed to cut through large ensembles, this instrument is meticulously crafted to explore how it sounds in ensemble settings and recordings.

This instrument may not be the right choice for everyone.
However, its appeal is immense when it clicks.

It is one answer that the prestigious Olds company has seriously arrived at.
Whether it’s a masterpiece or a misfit—
The final judgment will be made the moment you pick it up and play it.

*Founded in California in 1908. Always incorporating cutting-edge technology and securing numerous patents, the company has led the industry. As a brand favored by professional musicians in the U.S., it has produced many outstanding instruments.