Antoine Courtois' Legend 420 trombones are renowned for their handcrafted bells, offering a personalized adaptation to each musician's playing style. Available in yellow brass, rose brass, and solid silver, these bells provide distinct sound qualities. Yellow brass bells offer a pleasing balance, while rose brass bells deliver warmth and power for large works. Solid silver bells are favored by soloists for their harmonic richness and precise playability.
The Legend 420 trombones also feature three slide models. The standard nickel silver slides offer precision and control, while the Ultra Light solid silver slides provide unparalleled dexterity due to their branches and thinness. The nickel silver slides are suitable for players seeking a broad and powerful sound.
Made in Germany, these trombones boast a bore size of 0.547 inches (13.89 mm) and a hand-hammered one-piece bell measuring 8.46 inches (215 mm) in diameter. The Antoine Courtois brand enjoys an excellent reputation in France among trombonists. The Legend 420 trombones offer multiple configuration possibilities, whether for bells, slides, systems, or barrels.
The price-quality ratio is interesting for a model made in Europe, although production has been relocated to Germany following the closure of workshops in France. The finish of the trombones could be improved, and manufacturing may present some inconsistencies. Compared to top brands like Bach, Edwards, Getzen, Shires, and Schagerl, the Legend 420 trombones might slightly lack power in almost all configurations.
However, these trombones offer customization possibilities and appreciable sound qualities, making them an interesting choice for musicians in search of a versatile and quality instrument.