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Opinions on PT-4 or PT-20

Posted: Sun Nov 15, 2009 10:54 pm
by UTSAtuba
Like the title says, I'm just looking for opinions on the PT-4 (Rotary or Piston) or PT-20 (R or P) or even a comparison.

Thanks!

Joseph

Re: Opinions on PT-4 or PT-20

Posted: Mon Nov 16, 2009 1:17 am
by Casey Tucker
I've owned a PT20-PS for the past 6 years and I love it. I've thought about putting it up for sale and have even advertised it on the board but I always end up reminding myself of why I love the horn. I use a Stofer Geib and the pairing is heaven. The horn has a solid low range; very free blowing. The mid and high range just sing and the tuning throughout the horn is pretty on (slight adjustment on 1st space A). For being a 4/4 instrument it sure can put out some sound! I've used it on everything from quintet/solo literature to wind ensemble and orchestral literature. Overall, I would say it's a SOLID instrument and definitely deserves a blow or two.

-CT

Re: Opinions on PT-4 or PT-20

Posted: Mon Nov 16, 2009 2:20 am
by Bob Kolada
I play with a guy with a rotary PT4 and it's the only PT tuba I've ever played or heard that I've halfway liked. I've only played it once, but intonation seems really very good on it.

Re: Opinions on PT-4 or PT-20

Posted: Mon Nov 16, 2009 3:18 am
by Wyvern
I may have remembered wrong, so don't take this as gospel, but I understand the original reason for replacing the PT-4 with the PT-20 was to correct intonation problems with the piston version of the former.

I have only ever played the rotary PT-20. Had one and sold - since missed so much I am getting a replacement (Expected any day now. Can't wait to have available for use again).

The PT-20 is a really solid 4/4 CC with good rounded tone which it can really project when needed, a secure high register (I tended to use in preference to the Eb for real high register stuff!), an open low register and the best intonation of any CC I have come across.