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I would consider getting one, if only i was built like "the baer." and i might go fo it when i get into college, but for now im just a bit small for this baer.

You're right, probably a lot of Fafner in both of them.
The 5/4 "Thor" seems to have a lot in common with the old prototype rotary 2155's, specifically the bell and overall body layout. It may be a little harder to see because the photos are angled differently, but it looks like that is the root influence vs. the later model piston 2155/2000. FWIW, the rotary 2155's have a killer sound top to bottom, great response, and huge low register, but a stinker of a 3rd partial. If they fixed that and kept the other positive qualities it should be quite a horn(with the obligatory trendy 4P+1R valveset)

"Danger-Genius at Work"
Glad to know you guys have these new horns all figured out just by looking at the pictures.

Mike wrote:"Danger-Genius at Work"
Glad to know you guys have these new horns all figured out just by looking at the pictures.

I'm thinking that people "in the know" can tell that the bugle sections of these horns are pretty much the same and do exactly that...

Far from figured out. But, when I saw the new "Thor" my first reaction was "OMG, that looks just like a piston version of my horn!"
It was a major departure from their 21xx design of the last 10 years and a throwback to what they were toying with 15-20 years ago.
Everything old is new again. Even the playing characteristics as described seem similar. But we all know how that goes, putting sound into words.
But maybe I haven't figured it out
Have you?

so Mr. Baer has three "signature" tubas from two different companies? (miraphone 1291, firebird f, and this MW one)???

Signature mp and three tubas? This guy is hotter than hot right now apparently. dang. I only hope someday that I have half his success in the tuba world. I could settle for 1.5 tubas.

I was at one of the development sessions in Geretsried in October and I have to say that, to me, the Thor is a great horn. I was instantly amazed with how much sound and resonance it had and how well in tune it played. There is a resonance there that I have not found before in any horn and the low register speaks very quickly and easily.

I think once you play one of these instruments, you will experience the same "WOW!" effect. The R&D people at Menil Weston were great to work with and really know what they are doing. Just wait and see.