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B&S Gr55 Bb or Alexander 163CC
Posted: Tue Sep 21, 2010 5:55 pm
by cdatuba
Hello:
I have the oportunity to buy a 30 years old alexander 163CC or buy a new B&S Gr55 Bb.
The use for this tuba is band playing.
Is not important for me if its in Bb or CC.
I know that i have to try an decide for myself, but I want before heard your opinions.
Thank you.
Re: B&S Gr55 Bb or Alexander 163CC
Posted: Tue Sep 21, 2010 6:26 pm
by bort
A used 163 is probably a fair amount cheaper than a new anything...
Re: B&S Gr55 Bb or Alexander 163CC
Posted: Wed Sep 22, 2010 6:03 pm
by iiipopes
The new GR55 and its brother, the GR51 are two of the finest current production BBb tubas out there. I had the opportunity to play a GR51, and if I were 20 years younger and had the cash, I would have bought it then and there. These two tubas work great with the PT82 mouthpiece.
Re: B&S Gr55 Bb or Alexander 163CC
Posted: Wed Sep 22, 2010 6:19 pm
by Tom
It all comes down to what's important to you.
-New vs. used condition
-Work to play vs. "easy" to play
-Alexander sound vs. "B&S sound"
You really can't determine if you'll be happy with an Alexander by going about it this way, and the comparison to those B&S models is like comparing a pumpkin to a banana.
Especially with Alexanders, you really need to try that exact instrument to see if you love it, like it, or hate it. Not all Alexanders are created equal and you might find them too difficult to play (interpret that however you like). There are lots of posts here about Alexanders and what it is like to play one. You should read those to see what the typical experience is like...it might help you determine just how dedicated you really are to the pursuit of the Alexander sound.
I own an Alexander 163 that I am quite fond of. It is a fantastic sample and have has been written about on tubenet by me and others that have played it. This does not mean I would universally buy an Alexander over anything else. I cannot stress how important it is to try that EXACT Alexander before you buy!
Re: B&S Gr55 Bb or Alexander 163CC
Posted: Wed Sep 22, 2010 10:50 pm
by swillafew
If you have a specific need for a horn, consider what you think will meet the need. If there's a particular player you want to emulate (especially a teacher), consult with this person too.
I have two horns, but if I had to go with one it would have 5 valves, a compact wrap, a medium sized bell, and the best intonation I could find. Just a personal preference.