First of all thanks to everyone who gave advice concerning the school change it was appreciated. However, my wife and I now have to make big decisions .
Okay, has anyone played this tuba, B&S PT-22P 4/4? If so what were you opinions good, bad, and ugly reviews are all welcome?
I'm having a heck of a time deciding between E flat and F tubas. As far as my options for F I'm sticking with the PT-10 or 15. Options for E flat I havn't a clue. But I love Perantucci tubas. Again thanks for all of the great advice.
I played the PT22 side by side with my 983 a while ago. I thought the PT22 had less 'focus' (and more 'spread') than the 983 and the PT22 also took more air... Other than that, I thought it was a very nice Eb. I still prefer my 983, but it's just that; preference.
The PT-22P is an excellent Eb horn. Versatile in its traits, relatively easy to control and play in tune, nicely polychromatic in timbre without losing consistency.
From your inquiry, Luke, it is unclear what role an Eb tuba will play in your "cast of characters." Your signature would imply that you already own a PT-4 CC contrabass tuba. Are you looking to buy an F AND an Eb tuba? Do you want the Eb to be your single all-around, multi-purpose horn or designated for more specific purposes from horn(s) that you already have in your stable?
I played a 22P a couple of years ago at TMEA when custom had one sitting there. Being a 983 owner, I'm a little spoiled, but I really liked the way the 22P played overall and all around the horn. The one thing that really bothered me (and they might have tweaked this by now) was that ergonomically it was just a nightmare for me to hold. This tuba would probably require a stand in order to be tension-free. Loved the way it played, though...
Cale Self
Assistant Professor of Music
Acting Director of Bands & Instructor of Low Brass
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA
I too have played a PT-22P on a trip to Custom Music last year. I have to say I was thoroughly impressed with it. Honestly, if I find myself able to afford it one day, I will be buying that instrument. The tone, as mentioned is great, the intonation was good with only a few usual changes neccesary, and it was more free blowing than any of the F tubas without sounding like a CC or BBb. That's my biggest beef with F tubas is the middle low register feeling like it has a sock in it. Over the past year I've learned how to accomodate to that and learned how to produce a good sound, but with that PT-22P the work was taken out immediately. So, yeah. I highly suggest this instrument!
One thing that hasn't been mentioned is that the PT-22 Eb PROJECTS. It projects like crazy. And as said before, good sound, very open low register, acceptable intonation. There is a recent thread about Eb tuba info, check that out for other possible models to consider.
As for F or Eb. Play Eb. Or at least find an F that you don't have to "deal with" in the mid-low register. Find a horn that is relatively consistant in all ranges. In my experience, that means Eb and not F, but your mileage may vary.
--T. J.
Thomas J. Ricer, DMA
Royal Hawaiian Band - University of Hawaii at Manoa - Yamaha Performing Artist
Steve, my current horn is a PT-4. I'm looking for a good basstuba to add to my collection. My struggle seems to be which keyed instrument to buy. Both F and E flat have their advantages and disadvantages. So I'm looking at the PT-22P, PT-10/15.
One more thought. . . The PT22, to me, sounds a heck of a lot like a PT4. (Big Eb vs. normal size CC) Check out bore and bell sizes, I'd guess they're fairly similar. So, what are your goals? Do you want a big change in sound when you switch to bass tuba? In that case, something smaller or even rotary might be the way to go. If you're trying to sound as even as possible on all horns, maybe it is the way to go. Personally, I feel like the reason for switching horns is to swich tone colors. Otherwise, why not just play it on your CC, is the Eb a cheater/easier fingering/easier high range horn? This is not the way I've always felt, though. And I may change my mind again, so make your own conclusions. . .
--T. J.
Thomas J. Ricer, DMA
Royal Hawaiian Band - University of Hawaii at Manoa - Yamaha Performing Artist
I like the 22P as well. I was considering switching from my 3400S, but the only real complaint was ergonomic. I have good sized hands, but the big valves were too far apart.
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So, yeah. I highly suggest this instrument!
