TromboneChat

Hello, I was wondering If a Bach 42af is better/ worse/ different than the 42BO, 42B, and 42A? I know preference is a part of it too.

The AF is a replacement for the 42T. It's Bach made Axial Flow valve. Different from the others. Better? Only you can tell. I found Thayers to be air hogs. You may not.

The Bach 42af uses an "Infinity Axial Flow Valve", made by Instrument Innovations in Elkhorn WI. Bach have never made their own axial flow valve. Prior to the Infinity Axial, they used valves from O.E.Thayer Co.

The 42BO uses a Bach made traditional rotor valve, with open wrap, the 42B is the same, but with traditional "closed" wrap.

The 42a uses a valve made by Rene Hagmann.

Which one is better? We can't tell you that. You need to decide that for yourself.

Don't forget the 42BOF! Honestly It's what a 42BO SHOULD be.

Oh, that's what "AF" stands for? Dang, I had that one wrong.

Axial-Flow, got it.

In the past, I owned two Bach trombones: a Bach 42T and a Bach 42BO (both trombones were made around the year 2000). Three years ago, I upgraded and purchased a Bach 42AF with a gold brass bell and a lightweight slide (I replaced the nickel crook with brass). The trombone is phenomenal. It is very responsive, free-blowing and has that “unique Bach character” that many speak of. The trombone offers me a wide range of sound, making it versatile for playing in various ensembles. If I compare the Bach 42AF with the previously mentioned models, it is undoubtedly the best Bach I have ever played.

Pretty much, what Bruce and Matt said. (Others, too!) I'd be careful, if looking at a used 42T. The axial valve, could need servicing. The new 42AF (Infinity valve) is more user friendly(newer valve design) The 42A (Hagman), has slightly more maintenance, due to tight tolerance of valve. (You want the Hagman 2.0 version) As to playing, if all else the same. The 42AF and 42A, IMHO play about the same...for a young player....they are a bargain.