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Thinking about getting a CC tuba and learning CC fingerings. There's a piggy available locally, but for the shape it's in, I think the asking price is too much. I plan to play-test the instrument within the next few days, but I want to be armed with a bit of Piggy Pricing knowledge beforehand in case I really like the horn, so I can make a fair and informed offer. Assuming the horn's a good player, what would be a fair price for a used Piggy in less-than-aesthetically pleasing condition?

frankly, that looks to me like it's mostly lacquer spottiness. Possibly some bell dents?

If it plays well, that's not bad these days, IMO.

Keeping in mind that I have not seen this tuba in person (and obviously haven't played it), my observations are as follows:

Pros:
-Cerveny tubas, this model in particular, are generally regarded as being well made and very good players.
-The "damage" looks mostly cosmetic (lacquer "issues") along with some bell creases (???) and a dented bottom bow (???). Would be easy to strip, polish, and leave bare brass for a uniform look
-Unlikely to find a CC tuba of comparable quality in comparable condition for less money. Could take a gamble on an ebay Schiller or just buy this and be done with it

Cons:
-Might have "hidden issus" not apparent in photos or excessively worn valves (???)
-Only 4 valves (not an issue to me, but it could be to you and can hurt resale value--smaller market)
-Linkage might need an upgrade (consider Dubro links)

I'm not sure what your budget considerations are, but a new piggy (still 4 valves) is priced at c. $4,300 new. Once you hit that c. $4,500-$5,000 price point, options for used CC tubas open up considerably (used 186s, etc.)

that looks a LOT like the piggy I used to own, same vintage and similar condition. The thing played REALLY well, it even held its own against a 90+ piece orchestra in a big hall. Intonation was not great but manageable. wonderful strolling tuba too. I bought mine for about $2k and never felt like the price was a problem.

my 2¢, fwiw, ymmv, etc etc....

Yeah, if lacquer wear is the only real problem here, then the 2K price is pretty fair. That's about as cheap as any CC you'll find. If it plays well and all other things work, grab it!

Ditto. You won't find many tubas less than $2k. If you like it, buy it. If you like it, but don't buy it...post here to tell us where it is.

$2K seems fair provided the valves aren't TOO clanky and the leadpipe isn't rotted. I used to own an early 70's piggy and it served me very well. I had it re-lacquered for about $1000(including some dent removal) and it cleaned up really well. I sometimes regret selling it, but in reality it was just sitting for months at a time.

John

Thanks, all! I was hoping that you'd all say that the instrument was way overpriced!
The Seller isn't able to get together until next week - if I try it out and don't like buy it, I'll be sure to post the Seller's info here (or in the "For Sale" forum).

As said before, if it's a good player, 2k's a decent price. Take it to a really good tuba guy(Lee Stofer, Bloke), get it in good playing shape, with a uniform stripped finish(Lee calls it an "orchestral" finish), and you'll thank yourself later. It's just a fun, easy horn to play and can sound wonderful in the right hands.

Ike