Miraclone CC (best bang for buck)

[DouglasJB]

Hey guys, trying to find a way to get back into playing, and as much as I want a Willson 3400 (or Tubby Eb (2nd choice)) the finances are not quite there yet.

BUT...

The Miraphone 186 CC clones have been out for a while and offered by MANY companies. With what is currently out there. Who has the best Miraclone CC currently, and which years are best (and which to avoid)

Thanks everyone!

[arpthark]

I have owned a fair number of these from different importers.

In my experience, newer has been better.

I've had:

2013-ish Tuba Exchange
2015-ish Mack Brass
2019-ish Dillon

Intonation was fantastic on all of them. In general, they all seem to go for around $1500 used, so I would opt for a newer one. I could definitely tell that the linkage/valves weren't quite kosher on the two older ones I've had. I feel like this has improved recently. Valve slides are a bit smoother/easier to deal with, too; just better fit and finish all around.

At some point between 2015-ish and 2019, Jin Bao switched from the "flat paddle" fifth valve mechanism to the (much more ergonomic IMO) bar-style fifth valve, like on modern Miraphones. A good move.

[MKTuba]

I had a Mach 410 I bought in 2018, and received in 2019. It was a fantastic first tuba and would have been great horn to keep had I decided not to pursue music at a higher level. Honestly, I think you should go with the newest one you can find, as the chinese companies are constantly upping their game. Anything made after 2017-2018 will probably be really good, so you won't have to worry about them being bad. Good luck on the search, and I hope you are able to find something good!