Introduced c.1950, the Emperor trombone was Reynolds’ intermediate horn and a step up from the Roth model. The Emperor was targeted at advanced student musicians and community band players.
c.1950-1964
The Emperor model line included the “Tone Tempered” model (with nickel-silver bell flare) that had been previously part of the Roth model line. It is assumed that the Roth line was split to create a “good-better-best” catalog offering of Roth, Emperor and Professional/Contempora models, respectively. A brass-bell model was also available, with nickel silver trim being the main visible difference from the Roth model.
1964-1970
After CMI purchased Reynolds, trombone production was reportedly moved to Olds’ plant in Fullerton, where Reynolds’ horns were produced on separate-but-similar manufacturing lines. One of the results of this move is that Olds’ traditional dual-bore trombone design was implemented on many of Reynolds’ student horns, including the Medalist and Emperor models. Note also the change in bell bracing ferrules.
1971-1979
These late-model Emperor trombones are believed to be the same as the Olds Special, Model NL-15.
Model | Size | Description | Example |
TO-50 | Bore: .485″/.500″ dual bore Bell: 7½” |
Emperor Tenor Trombone | Materials: brass | Slide: chrome-plated nickel silver inner slides; brass outer slides | Finish: nickel plating with baked epoxy coating | Other: Rectangular “reynolds” counterweight; same as Olds Special, Model NL-15 | No photo available |
Notes and Quotes
1953 Roth-Reynolds catalog:
Reynolds Emperor Trombones designed for flexibility, fine tone quality and beautifully balanced scale. Nickel silver slides with chrome plated finish are correctly proportioned for fast action and durability. One-piece slides with drawn stockings. Deluxe models are equipped with “Silver-Flare” bells and both models are trimmed in nickel silver for rich appearance.
1958, 1959 Roth-Reynolds catalog:
Designed for flexibility, fine tone quality and beautifully balanced scale. Nickel silver slides with chrome plated finish are correctly proportioned for fast action and durability. One-piece slides with drawn stockings. Solid brass bell.
1966 Reynolds catalog:
Modestly priced for serious students who profit by its flexibility, rich tone quality and beautifully balanced scale. Medium bore; 7½” bell; solid nickel-silver slide receiver, tuning slide and bell flare. Professional mouthpiece, music lyre, modern case included.
1970 Reynolds catalog:
Solid nickel-silver receiver, tuning slide and bell flare give this instrument a distinctive tonal quality. Lightweight as an aid to the young player. Dual bores of .485 and .500 so that the performer can obtain a full tone with less effort. Bell flare measures 7½”.
1977 Reynolds catalog:
The Emperor Trombone has been designed for the young player who has progressed beyond the beginning stages. It withstands hard use and has a beautiful rich, full sound. Nickel-plated for contemporary appearance and sound. Lightweight and precision balance. Dual bore permits a full tone with less effort.