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I played on an Amati CC for a couple of years. It worked well for me but it was just too small for the work I was doing.

Harold is absolutely right, $3000 is too much to pay, even if it's new. You ought to be able to pick up a used for for significantly less. For that matter a used Miraphone will be less and (if it's been well maintained) probably play better (the consistancy issue).

You should consider the switch to CC if you are seriously considering a career in music, otherwise keep playing BBb tubas.

Take your time and look around. You'll find what works for you.

A high quality used tuba (perhaps a Very high quality model, with a few dents) is always a better investment than any cheap new tuba. Most importantly, you will have a better playing instrument now... plus, you will save on repairs later on, and it will have a significantly higher resale value than the cheap new tuba if you need to sell it someday. A well maintained used tuba generally does not depreciate in value.