TromboneChat

Now being a college music major, I'm really looking to upgrade my gear. I'm in the market for a small bore for jazz and the Rath r100 caught my attention. I'm not too familiar with Michael Rath trombones, so I'm just wondering how it compares to a King 2b/3b or even a Conn 6h?

I played a R100 for a couple years after playing a 6H then a 3B. The R100 feels slightly more sterile than a 3B or a 6H, but is more consistent in response throughout the horn. If you can figure out the specific quirks of a 2B/3B, you can really make them sing, and I find the Conn 6H to be slightly more forgiving than the kings, more work than the R100, but worth the reward. All 4 horns you mentioned can be had for under $1500 if you look in the right spots, and will serve you while you figure out what works best for you. You can also usually get the money you paid back for each horn. I also might have a 2B and 3B coming up for sale for well under that.

Check with your primary instrument teacher. They usually have some (excellent) suggestions.