I was not able to try many alto trombones out before buying, so bought this instrument based on maker's reputation, looking for the German "sound". I previously played a Lidl alto and also the pBone mini. I still cannot say how the Slokar compares with another "top notch" instrument, but suffice it to say I am very very happy with my new instrument. It has a beautiful sound, bigger and more mellow that the rather bright Lidl, but still easily able to project over the rest of the orchestra in Symphonie Fantastique. The supplied mouthpiece is a good match, and seems quite large comparted to what I was used to. The slide is very good indeed - it was very slightly scratchy at first, but it quickly ran itself in and is now perfect.