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The most obvious differences between the 2182 and the 2182W is the bore size. The 2182 is a 0.708" primary bore, and the 2182W is a 0.750" primary bore. Also, the 2182W is about $500 more expensive and comes with the Pvak system. There is also the handmade version, the 2182/2

Ive played two 2182Ws. One was great, One was okay, but Ive never played a regular 2182.

Can anyone who has played/owned both attest to the playing differences?

Thanks!

I owned a 2182 for 14 years, and have played 2 of the newer 2182W F tubas. The original 2182 with .708" bore piston valves plays like a modern version of the classic Alexander 155 rotary F tuba. They share the same bell, and have some similar challenges in the low register. Of the many 2182 tubas I've gotten to playtest over the years, no two played the same. Some of them had great low registers.

The 2182W has the same large piston set (0.750" bore) found on most of the MW piston tubas. For me, the low register is more easily accessible, but the sound is less interesting. For anyone considering a 2182 (either version), I highly recommend an extended trial period if it can be arranged.