TubeNet

I make plans to buy an older compensated EEb Tuba (Boosey, Hawkes, Besson or others) 3 or 4 valves and with not too big bell.
Are there some links in the web, showing trade names and technical datas
for these horns? (like Conn loyalist, for example)
Thank you.
Ulli

If you want an older Eb comp, there is only one real choice: a Besson/B&H. For at least the past fifty years, it is the same instrument, with only cosmetic details differing, depending on which model. Oversimplified, the Besson, whether New Standard or Sovereign, was usually lacquer for brass bands and the B&H, usually the Imperial, silverplate for military bands. The older ones have a 15 inch bell and the newer ones a 17 inch bell. Bore is .689, similar to a King BBb bore. I've had my eye on the 3-valve one at Wichita Band Instruments, but I think the $1595 is a little much, even though it has been reconditioned really well. It's currently on eBay:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Rare-Concert-Tuba-i ... dZViewItem
But I want one to match my 3-valve BBb. Most people will want the 4-valve comp so that you get the chromatics you need in the lower register below AA below the staff down to pedal EEb. Most will have the smaller receiver, and will require something like a Wick 3 mouthpiece. They pop up occasionally. Good luck!