Tuba buying suggestions

[pficky]

Hello All!

I'm a student tuba player, and while I only began last year after 5 years of trumpet, through practice and lessons I've progressed quite quickly (I think!). I'm now thinking of buying my own tuba, and was hoping I could get some tips on things such as whether I should be looking at CCs or BBbs, sizes, models, and ways I can find lower prices so I don't break the bank. I've been really looking into used tubas because of the cheaper prices, and I don't really care if it's brand new! Just something I can call my own.

Thanks,
Peter

[TUBAD83]

I too agree with Bloke--please hold off on buying and learn more about your instrument--lots of information out there!

J "ex-trumpet player also who saw the light" J

[Gilligan]

Look seriously into an Eb Tuba or a BBb. Eb fingering in bass clef are nearly identical to Bb Trumpet fingering in treble clef. Stay away from a CC unless your seriously studing orchestral music or are planning a long tuba career But most important learn what you really want to do with tuba before your drop any serious money...

Before you start figure out if your more comfortable with valve front or valve up designs.

Then identify your preference of valve type. Piston or Rotor.

Then 3 valved, 4 valved, or 5 or more valves.

If you know what is most comfortable for you personaly then it will be easier to hunt for a horn as you will be able to eliminate models which have configuration that are uncomfortable

[Donn]

Before you start figure out if your more comfortable with valve front or valve up designs.

Then identify your preference of valve type. Piston or Rotor.

Then 3 valved, 4 valved, or 5 or more valves.

If you know what is most comfortable for you personaly then it will be easier to hunt for a horn as you will be able to eliminate models which have configuration that are uncomfortable

Is that how it is for most of us - these basic design / configuration issues are paramount?

A local long time professional bass/tuba player I was playing with a couple weeks ago, had a big 3 top valve Martin, bell front, that for him had flawless intonation and tone. I'm guessing he doesn't go for that configuration, so much as he goes for that type of sound. (And he got it ridiculously cheap.) Maybe I'm not fussy enough, but (aside from the odd 3+1 configuration) I would expect most players to adapt pretty easily to whatever.

[Bob Kolada]

My version of the blanket 186 suggestion is a King 2341. Nicer sound, easier to play.