Travel Tuba - Practical or Paperweight?

[DiveBomber]

Hello Everyone!

I was wondering if anyone has any thoughts on "Travel Tubas." I am going to be in a situation for work where I will be unable to play my regular horns for a couple months, but I might be able to bring something smaller with me. I didn't ever think this is something I would even consider, but wessex and schiller both make small mostly tuba shaped bits of metal. I don't expect either option to really be a "useable for ensemble" kinda of instrument, but maybe they can be a way to maintain some face while away. For under a thousand dollars that schiller tuba could be a fun party toy and potentially helpful for my situation, or maybe its just a $900 paperweight.

Thank you for reading my ramble, hopefully some of it made sense. I look forward to hearing your insight.

[tubalex]

https://youtu.be/fxnzYPNPZbk?si=Y3SfcoNcZKq9wGAq

[kathott]

Because a travel tuba’s size presents a compromise, I wanted the best playing qualities I could get. I have had a Meinl-Weston ‘Trolley’ F for many years. Some time later, I ordered a 5th valve as well. This instrument has exceeded my expectations. As per it’s raison d'être, I have mostly used it for travel, but I play it regularly, so as to be always up to speed on it’s performing characteristics.
I have yet to find a perfect practice mute for a regular tuba.

This player makes a good case for it: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=fNRF0buv2Q8
K.

[Dylan King]

Here’s my “review”….

https://youtu.be/SoG4lJJ3pIY?si=XkWfK5przyh1faU2