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Why don't you check with stores online?

http://www.custommusiccorp.com/

Write them a letter.

You can get the snail mail address from the site.

You might even get some nice literature you will want to keep about some of the greatest tuba players in the world.

Pick up the phone and call them.

They seem to do anything they can to avoid having a price in writing, so you're not going to find out unless you call them or go visit in person.

Thanks, Tom.

Prior to 2006 the price was around the $8500 USD. However, since January 1st, the prices were expected to go up (due to increasing prices from the manufacturer). I'd expect a current price of $9000-9500 USD. If you talk real nice they may give you one at the old price... but act SOON!

Well, I don't know when you will have to money to buy it... but consider finance options. If you can take out a loan at a decent interest rate, such that the interest isn't more than $1000 USD (over the period you think you'll have saved enough) then go for it. Custom Music might even have some sort of financing options for you. Give them a call, see what you can work out. They want to make the sale, make them work for it!

Another option...
viewtopic.php?t=12390

Plus, he's even in AZ (closer than MI) and "motivated to sell."

i dunno, but you could try http://www.baltimorebrass.net

If you don't have a lot of money, seriously consider getting a USED instrument. A used instrument retains it resale value a whole lot better than a new instrument. Of course, you won't be able to get any financing through the individual (but possibly if you buy used through a business, such as Baltimore Brass). But then again, that's what banks are for.

It's outrageous how far into debt people go when studying law or medicine. I think we should allow ourselves, as musicians, to go into a little bit of debt to purchase a quality instrument.

Financing is what drives our economies!

a B n S is a nice horn, but you have to look at the point you are at now, i understand in one of your other posts, you said you were trying out for a youth symphony, and you were currently in the 8th grade. Its great that you have such enthusiasm at your age, but i think a B n S could be a purchase later in your career.

i understand that Mr. Fedderly will let you purchase a used tuba from him, and come back a few years later when you are in the market for a new horn, and you can use that same horn you got from him years earlier to trade in for a new horn where the value of the used horn will knock off the price of the used one.

yeah the PT4 is in the key of CC, my first horn was a BBb, and i think that is the same for a lot of students.

But if you really want a CC horn then go ahead.

Just remember that for the next few years, into college, you will be playing mostly concert band music, which tends to go into a lot of flats, so if you want a CC, get a 5-valve and make sure your pinky is up to it for the low notes. I also recommend you look at the PT-4 for sale on this forum, as well as the other brands at places such as Dillons, Baltimore Brass, and others whose names escape me (sorry!).

money is a big issue, BBb run in the lower price range, so i think your parents might like a BBb better than a CC for that reason. But i think to make your desicion, talk to your teacher, and have him here you and tell you whats best for you.