Opinions on Meinl Weston F Tubas

[erictuba]

Hey,

Im trying to get some feedback on what people think about Meinl Weston F tubas, specifically the meinl weston 45SLPS (silver, 5 valved piston model). I am starting to look around and want to know what people think of these horns. Specifically and most importantly how the horns sound and if there is alot of color in the tone. Also, how the low range is, and if the horns hold up well in a quintet setting. Any information that you guys have would be greatly apprecieated.

Thanks
Eric

[Paul S]

Eric,

Depending on how set you are to have a silver horn or buying new, you might want to drop a note to Tim Olt, professor of Tuba/Euphonium at Bowling Green State University in Ohio. Tim, who is also principal tubist with the Lima Symphony Orchestra, is offering his excellent laquer 45SLP w/ Dillon AGR, on the TubeNet right now.

viewtopic.php?t=5831

He has used the horn in a variety of settings and would be able to offer some insight for you. His horn might be just what you are looking for at considerably less than new price too.

[JCradler]

You might also look at the 45 SLZ. This is a rotary companion to the 45 SLP, I believe. One of my students just bought one, and it is a great horn. On the big side as F's go, super even sound and pitch. If the ergonomics of the MW pistons aren't for you, then the SLZ may be the ticket. Durn things are gettin' 'spensive though.

JC

[phoenix]

I've never tried it, but I've heard Velvet Brown play it. The MW 2182 F tuba is looking pretty decent.

[Mark]

After trying many F's, the 45slp is the one I would buy.

If you'll recall, a lot of pros were selling their 45slp's a year or so ago. Of the ones I talked to, they pretty much agreed with your opinion, but they were all tired of the extra effort it required in the high range.

BTW, the Miraphone 181 and the MW 2182 seemed to be the replacements of choice.

[Thomas Maurice Booth]

I just purchased a used 45 slp at the beginning of January. I am very happy with it so far. My biggest hang up as of now is the speed of the valves. I feel like I have to work much harder to play it in terms of finger quickness. The horn slots really well throughout the partials and the low range is great, a nice full sound. The horn is very large so playing in the back of a large group is not going to be a problem; however, the horn is also great in smaller more intimate settings.

Thomas Maurice Booth

[MikeMason]

i feel you need at least one naysayer,so... the one i tried had nothing below a Db below the staff. i buzzed in what i thought was a good solid C and WHIFFFF! a swing and a miss. no could do. got an 822 instead...