The contrabass trombone is usually pitched in 12′ F a perfect fourth lower than the modern tenor or bass trombone and has been through a number of changes in its history. Its first incarnation during the Renaissance was in 18′ B as the ""Octav-Posaune"", while it was the Bass Trombone that was pitched in F, E, or D. During this period the Contrabass Trombone was built with a long slide and extension handle to reach the lower positions. This horn was generally unsatisfactory with players, being unwieldy and incredibly taxing to play.