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......continuing a previous post on Brass Band style BBb's, I am
considering looking at a NEO BBb - I am hoping it may have a more
refined delivery over the old B&H 992 for orchestral applications.
Who is currently playing the old B&H 992 BBb?
-Do you have any issues getting this instrument up to A-440?
-The (treble clef) pedals Eb/D/Db are tough
-some pitch issues, but a great sound
Comments?

I sold my (good, used for last 20 years) 992 to buy a Neo if that's any guidance.....

Why don't American players use these instruments?

I have a sovereign 994 (before they were shortened) that I use with a wind ensemble and its great. It tunes well and can play at many dynamic levels easily. Stuffy at some different ranges on the horn but I would like to try the new Neo BBb. I wonder how the low register playability would compare with the Besson stock.

Hello, I recently tried a new NEO BBb. Compared to my mid 1980's Besson 992 BBb, the NEO is easier to play, more in tune, more consistent throughout the range. It has most things, BUT, it does not have the “B&H sound" or the workmanship. I like a bit of a grind in the tone - not to suggest vulgar or rough - but the NEO is just a bit too smooth for the delivery I prefer in a brass band BBb. In fact, it does not play much differently than my EEb Sovereign of the same vintage. The only reason I am considering a NEO, is that it would fit more easily into the orchestral sound, which would be a harder trick on the old 992.

Hi Kathott,
I suppose your post shows that it really does take all sorts - Both Andy Catt and Simon Gresswell play Neo BBbs in Brighouse & Rastrick band and you won't find a finer sounding bass section than they have.
My opinion is that you need a smoother sound in a band than an orchestra where your 'blend' isn't so exact.

Phil.

I have to agree with Phil. The concept of the bass section is to blend to create a homogeneous sound within the band. It is difficult but not impossible with a mixed set of orchestral horns. It can be done with mouthpiece selection and a lot of sectional time. With the British componsators having that smooth tone they can all blend easier. The orchestral horns all have their own flare and personality which is what you want from an orchestral setup. Your own voice and timbre within the orchestra. To blend with the trombones is key but to have that solid "Tuba" sound is what makes each tuba with an orchestral design have its strong and weak points.

Two years ago i traded my besson 992 for a brand new neo here in westen canada.I have owned and played many tubas in my 35+ years of playing and i can honestly say that the neo in heads above anything else. Yamaha has done a masterful job. The tuba has great pitch, excellent tone and is easy to hold. Yamaha has lowererd the valve block and repositioned the fourth valve so it is almost in the middle of the horn. Ther was nothing really wrong with my 992. The neo was just better. I have used the neo in every conceivable playing situation and it is now my "go to horn". Where i used to take my besson 981 ee flat when i was not sure what the rep would be i now take the neo.I know the valve configuration may not be everyboby's cup of tea, especially on this side of the pond,it sure works for me.