Aulos 533B

Aulos 533B Symphony Bass Recorder — Warm, Historic Voice in ABS

The Aulos 533B Symphony Bass Recorder is a straight bass recorder in F, built for ensemble players and serious students who want the deep, full sound of a bass without the upkeep of a wooden instrument. Part of the 500 Symphony series — more faithful to historic designs than entry-level models — it pairs Baroque fingering with a curved windway for stable intonation. ABS synthetic resin, metal keys, and a metal lead pipe keep the instrument stable through humidity changes that would shift a wooden bass.

Metal Keys and Bocal for Lasting Durability

What separates this bass from many plastic alternatives is the use of metal keys rather than plastic ones — reviewers note these produce no distracting clicks during play. The metal crook and ivory-coloured bell give a traditional appearance, while the dark brown ABS body keeps weight manageable. Double holes on the lower joint and a recessed bell with double F/F# keys complete the design.

Specifications for the Bass Recorder Player

The 533B sits in the F bass register with a range from f to g2, giving roughly two octaves for consort and solo repertoire.

• Key: F (bass) — standard pitch for SATB consorts
• Fingering: Baroque (English) — matches European historical-performance practice
• Material: ABS synthetic resin — resists cracking, needs no wax adjustment
• Keys: 4 metal keys — covering B, C, and double F/F# holes
• Windway: Curved — supports stable, focused tone
• Body: 3-piece construction with metal crook — easy to assemble and transport

Who This Bass Recorder Is Built For

Built for intermediate to advanced recorder players who need a reliable bass for consort work, early-music ensembles, or solo repertoire at a price well below wooden alternatives. The 533B is the right choice for ensemble members who want stable intonation and warm tone without the maintenance demands of a wooden instrument. Players with smaller hands should expect a short adjustment period, as the stretch to the lowest holes is demanding — a common trait across all bass recorders. Conservatory students and adult learners will find the low-maintenance ABS body a practical long-term investment.

Aulos and the Symphony Series Heritage

Aulos was the first manufacturer to successfully produce a recorder from ABS synthetic resin and has remained a major name in plastic recorders for decades. The 500 Symphony series reflects this heritage by offering instruments more faithful to historic designs than the entry-level Robin line. The 533B has been in continuous production since January 2008.