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After spending the past 5 years acquiring too many trombones, I picked up a Holton BB-664 tuba. Serial is 7174xx which is supposed to put it in the early to mid 80's. I would guess it is 4/4 in size and the mouthpiece receiver states Czecho Slovakia stamped on separate lines. I haven't been able to find out anything else about this horn, so asking if anyone has any more info. Also, being a small bore tenor player, I am inclined to go with a smallish mouthpiece, both in cup and diameter. My intended use for the horn is to fill in Bass Bone, Euphonium, and easier Tuba parts in Brass and Trombone quartet/quintet/choir settings. Any thoughts from more experienced players (meaning every one of you reading this).

Thanks,

Should have also mentioned, 3 upright, piston valve configuration.

Having made the same transition 10 years ago, let me say "welcome to the doubler's club!" You will find a wealth of information, humor, attempts at humor and diatribe on this site. Enjoy! As for your original question, I too started off small but transitioned over a number of years to a medium large rim, smallish cup. YMMV. You may want to invest in a screw rim MP that will let you try various combinations. Let us know how we can help.

My bone choir absolutely refuses to let my tuba in the door. They are happy when I show up with the Bass Bone but not the tuba. I never before understood how small minded trombone players can be, and I are one.

A slide cimbasso maybe? I can't hold the contra-bass trombone up to play it! Takes too much air for an old guy anyway.

You will be assimilated. Resistance is futile. Welcome to the trenches!

KiltieTuba wrote: That's what a contrabass trombone is.
The cimbasso in the modern sense, is a valve contrabass trombone.

I know. It does however sit on the floor. You have to hold a contrabass bone up all by yourself. I also have a stand but it is awkward. I shouldn't be stealing the OP's post though, so I will shut up now.

13 - 3/4 inch bell.