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So I bought this Meinl Weston 2165 S not too long ago and I am trying to find out about the custom modification of the leadpipe. As you can see from the pictures, http://groups.msn.com/MyTubaPictures/mw2165.msnw , it is not origional. I am trying to see if I can either locate the person who had this done or if anyone knows anything about it. It doesn't appear to be a MW2000 leadpipe but I guess it could be some kinda hybrid.

The serial number on the valve set is 004330, and the number on the leadpipe which is hand engraved is 002515 and the word custom is engraved above the leadpipe. Also the same owner appears to have crushed the bell and had it re-rolled out. Don't know if that will help find someone.

At some point someone sold this tuba to Baltimore Brass (where the previous owner purchased it) after the custom work. So far, this is all I have been able to find out.

Thanks in advance for any information that is out there.

Jim Langenberg

Did they perhaps put a smaller (i.e. 45SLP) leadpipe on? Which would bring it a step closer to being a 2265.

The main difference between the 2165 and 2265 (to my knowledge from talking with Matt Walters) are a smaller 45SLP leadpipe and slightly smaller/shorter bell ( I forget what the dimensions are)
If I am wrong please do correct me

The 2265 comes with the smaller 45S-LP leadpipe (Matt's idea) and the slightly smaller bell from the Fafner.

The 2265/2 Is the same, but is handmade, like the 2000. I had the opportunity to play the 2265/2 that will be going to the USAB conference with Dillon, and it is purely spectacular. There is no other word. Retail? IIRC, about 16 grand.

I don't recall there being two interchangeable leadpipes, but then I didn't ask.

Actually, the original 2265/2 came with 4 interchangable leadpipes (I have it in my home). The Dallas Symphony purchased another 2265/2 for my use in the orchestra which has the 45SLP leadpipe installed (soldered onto the bell) and is silverplated. This is the best tuba that I have used.

As for the original post, I can not tell if another leadpipe has been installed on the 2165. I had a 45SLP leadpipe installed on my old 2165 by the famous Mr. Bloke. It was the best tweak that I ever did to that tuba.

-Matt