What is the pBone made of?

The pBone is constructed from a high-strength, robust ABS plastic. This material makes the instrument extremely durable and lightweight compared to traditional brass models.

Is the pBone suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is specifically designed to be easy for beginners to handle. Its ergonomic design and light weight allow younger students to hold the instrument correctly without fatigue.

Does the pBone come with a case?

Every pBone includes a convenient smart carry bag. This makes it easy to transport the instrument to lessons, rehearsals, or performances safely.

What mouthpiece is included with the pBone?

The instrument comes with a matching plastic mouthpiece. However, it is compatible with any standard small-shank trombone mouthpiece if a player prefers a different feel.

Can I use a metal mouthpiece with a pBone?

Yes, you can use a metal mouthpiece such as the Gear4Music Coppergate 11C. The pBone is designed to accept standard small-shank mouthpieces to suit individual player preferences.

How much does a pBone typically cost?

The pBone is typically priced around £145. This makes it a very affordable entry point for those looking to start playing the trombone.

Is the pBone a full-sized trombone?

It is a full-sized Bb tenor trombone. It follows the standard dimensions of a tenor trombone, ensuring that skills learned on the pBone are transferable to brass instruments.

Is the pBone durable enough for school use?

Absolutely, its plastic body is designed to handle the knocks and bumps common in school environments. It is much more resistant to denting than a traditional brass instrument.

Do professional musicians use the pBone?

Yes, many professionals use pBones for their unique sound and durability. It is particularly popular for outdoor gigs and street performances where a brass instrument might get damaged.

What colours is the pBone available in?

The pBone is available in a range of exciting colours, including the popular bright yellow model. This variety makes the instrument visually appealing to students of all ages.

Can you use a mute with the pBone?

Yes, standard trombone mutes can be used with the pBone. For quiet practice, players might consider options like the Denis Wick Tuba Practice Mute if they are using larger instruments, but standard trombone mutes fit the pBone bell.

How does the weight of the pBone compare to a brass trombone?

The pBone is significantly lighter than a metal trombone. This reduction in weight helps prevent strain on the arms and neck, making it easier to play for long periods.

Gear article

pBone Plastic Trombone (Yellow)

The pBone is a revolutionary plastic trombone designed by pBone music that offers a robust, lightweight alternative to traditional brass instruments. Priced at approximately £145, it is a Bb tenor trombone widely adopted by students, teachers, and professionals for its durability and ergonomic design.

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Overview and Design

The pBone plastic trombone in yellow represents a significant shift in brass instrument manufacturing. By replacing traditional brass with a high-quality plastic body, pBone music has created an instrument that is significantly lighter and more resistant to physical damage. The design focuses on ergonomics, ensuring that the instrument can be held comfortably by younger players or those with smaller hands who might struggle with the weight of a standard metal tenor trombone.

The instrument is finished in a vibrant yellow, though it is part of a broader range of exciting colours. Each unit comes as a complete starter package, including a matched plastic mouthpiece and a smart carry bag for transport.

Technical Features and Playability

Despite its non-traditional materials, the pBone functions as a standard Bb tenor trombone. Key features include:

Robust Construction: The plastic body is engineered to withstand knocks and bumps that would typically dent or damage a brass instrument.
Lightweight Frame: The reduction in mass makes it an ideal choice for travel and for use in educational settings where students must hold the instrument for extended periods.
Standard Compatibility: While it includes a plastic mouthpiece, the instrument is designed to be compatible with standard small-shank trombone mouthpieces, allowing players to customise their setup.

Sound and Performance Character

The sound of the pBone is surprisingly resonant, closely mimicking the timbre of a traditional brass trombone while maintaining a unique character of its own. It has become a global favourite not just for beginners, but for professional players who require a reliable instrument for outdoor performances, street bands, or travel where a delicate brass instrument might be at risk. The plastic construction offers a free-blowing feel that aids beginners in producing their first notes.

Target Audience and Applications

The pBone is primarily aimed at three distinct groups:

1. Students and Schools: The durability and low price point make it an excellent choice for music departments and young beginners who are prone to accidental equipment damage. 2. Travelling Musicians: Its lightweight nature and included carry bag make it a convenient 'travel trombone' for practice or casual gigs. 3. Professional Players: Professionals often use the pBone for its visual impact and its ability to function in environments that might be hazardous to expensive metal instruments.

Market Comparisons

When compared to student-level brass instruments such as the Grassi STB850 School Series Tenor Trombone, the pBone offers superior durability and weight advantages at a lower cost. However, it occupies a different niche than professional-grade instruments like the Conn 52H Bb/F Tenor Trombone or the Conn 34H Alto Trombone, which offer more complex bore designs and mechanical features like F-attachments. For those seeking specific mouthpiece upgrades, the pBone can be paired with accessories like the Denis Wick Classic series or Gear4Music Coppergate 11C mouthpieces.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the pBone made of?: The pBone is constructed from a high-strength, robust ABS plastic. This material makes the instrument extremely durable and lightweight compared to traditional brass models.
Is the pBone suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is specifically designed to be easy for beginners to handle. Its ergonomic design and light weight allow younger students to hold the instrument correctly without fatigue.
Does the pBone come with a case?: Every pBone includes a convenient smart carry bag. This makes it easy to transport the instrument to lessons, rehearsals, or performances safely.
What mouthpiece is included with the pBone?: The instrument comes with a matching plastic mouthpiece. However, it is compatible with any standard small-shank trombone mouthpiece if a player prefers a different feel.
Can I use a metal mouthpiece with a pBone?: Yes, you can use a metal mouthpiece such as the Gear4Music Coppergate 11C. The pBone is designed to accept standard small-shank mouthpieces to suit individual player preferences.
How much does a pBone typically cost?: The pBone is typically priced around £145. This makes it a very affordable entry point for those looking to start playing the trombone.
Is the pBone a full-sized trombone?: It is a full-sized Bb tenor trombone. It follows the standard dimensions of a tenor trombone, ensuring that skills learned on the pBone are transferable to brass instruments.
Is the pBone durable enough for school use?: Absolutely, its plastic body is designed to handle the knocks and bumps common in school environments. It is much more resistant to denting than a traditional brass instrument.
Do professional musicians use the pBone?: Yes, many professionals use pBones for their unique sound and durability. It is particularly popular for outdoor gigs and street performances where a brass instrument might get damaged.
What colours is the pBone available in?: The pBone is available in a range of exciting colours, including the popular bright yellow model. This variety makes the instrument visually appealing to students of all ages.
Can you use a mute with the pBone?: Yes, standard trombone mutes can be used with the pBone. For quiet practice, players might consider options like the Denis Wick Tuba Practice Mute if they are using larger instruments, but standard trombone mutes fit the pBone bell.
How does the weight of the pBone compare to a brass trombone?: The pBone is significantly lighter than a metal trombone. This reduction in weight helps prevent strain on the arms and neck, making it easier to play for long periods.