Used John Packer JP231 Rath Bb Tenor Trombone

Quick Product Summary

The John Packer JP231 Rath is a medium-large bore Bb tenor trombone developed in collaboration with respected British trombone designer Michael Rath. Combining an 8-inch bell, .525-inch bore and Rath-designed leadpipe, it offers a responsive, versatile setup suited to progressing and experienced players.

This used example is in Very Good condition and comes supplied with a hard case and Slide-O-Mix slide lubricant. Its straight Bb configuration makes it a versatile choice for concert band, wind band, jazz, big band and orchestral playing.

What Makes the John Packer JP231 Rath Special?

The JP231 Rath benefits from design input from Michael Rath, including a specially developed leadpipe and manufacturing principles influenced by Rath's professional trombones. Its medium-large .525-inch bore sits between smaller jazz-focused instruments and large-bore symphonic trombones, providing a useful balance of projection, articulation and resistance.

High-grade 80:20 brass construction and an 8-inch bell give the JP231 a versatile tonal character suitable for a broad range of ensemble work. This example is also in Very Good used condition and comes with a protective hard case and Slide-O-Mix for ongoing slide maintenance.

Who Is It For?

The JP231 Rath is particularly well suited to progressing intermediate players, experienced trombonists and musicians looking for a versatile straight Bb tenor trombone.

Its medium-large bore makes it suitable for wind bands, concert bands, jazz ensembles, big bands and orchestral playing, while remaining manageable for players moving up from a student-level instrument.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Instrument Type	Bb Tenor Trombone
Model	JP231 Rath
Bore	.525" / 13.34mm
Bell	8"
Body Material	High-grade 80:20 brass
Configuration	Straight Bb
Condition	Very Good
Hard Case	Included

Condition Overview

Condition Grade: Very Good

This John Packer JP231 Rath is in Very Good used condition and has been well cared for.

There may be light signs of previous handling and use consistent with a pre-owned brass instrument, but the overall presentation is very good.

A hard case and Slide-O-Mix slide lubricant are included.

What's Included?

• John Packer JP231 Rath Bb Tenor Trombone

• Hard case

• Slide-O-Mix slide lubricant

Not Included:

• Mouthpiece

Technical Specifications

Instrument

• Brand: John Packer

• Model: JP231 Rath

• Instrument Type: Tenor Trombone

• Key: Bb

• Configuration: Straight tenor trombone

• Bore: Medium-large

• Bore Diameter: 13.34mm / .525"

• Bell Diameter: 8"

• Water Keys: 1

• Lyre Box: No

Construction

• High-grade 80:20 brass construction

• Michael Rath-designed leadpipe

• Lacquer finish

• Traditional straight Bb tenor layout

Bore & Bell

The .525-inch medium-large bore gives the JP231 a useful middle ground between compact small-bore jazz trombones and larger symphonic instruments.

Its 8-inch bell provides strong projection while retaining the articulation required for a wide variety of ensemble and performance settings.

Slide

The JP231 is designed around a traditional trombone slide mechanism, with the Rath-influenced design intended to provide a responsive and controlled playing experience.

Slide-O-Mix lubricant is included with this used example for routine slide care and maintenance.

FAQs

Is this John Packer JP231 Rath new or used?

This is a used JP231 Rath in Very Good condition.

What key is the JP231 Rath in?

The JP231 Rath is a Bb tenor trombone.

Does the JP231 have an F attachment?

No. The JP231 is a straight Bb tenor trombone without an F-attachment valve.

What bore size does the JP231 use?

It has a .525-inch / 13.34mm medium-large bore, providing a balance between easy articulation, projection and a broad tonal response.

What size is the bell?

The JP231 features an 8-inch bell.

What is the trombone made from?

It is constructed from high-grade 80:20 brass.

Is this a Rath trombone?

It is a John Packer JP/Rath instrument, developed in collaboration with professional British trombone designer Michael Rath. It features a specially designed Michael Rath leadpipe and Rath-influenced design and manufacturing features.

What styles of music is the JP231 suitable for?

Its medium-large bore and straight Bb configuration make it versatile enough for concert bands, wind bands, jazz ensembles, big bands and orchestral playing.

Is a hard case included?

Yes. A hard case is included with this used instrument.

Is a mouthpiece included?

No. A mouthpiece is not included with this example and will need to be purchased separately if required.

Is slide lubricant included?

Yes. Slide-O-Mix slide lubricant is included, providing a suitable product for maintaining smooth slide operation.

Is the JP231 suitable for an advancing student?

Yes. It is particularly well suited to players progressing beyond an entry-level trombone who want a more refined and versatile instrument.

How should the trombone slide be maintained?

The inner and outer slide surfaces should be kept clean and correctly lubricated. The included Slide-O-Mix can be used as part of regular slide maintenance to help maintain smooth movement.

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