TubeNet

Apologies for all the self-serving posts and questions recently -- here's another one. In return, I will try to pay it forward and help other people with their questions:

1) Is the serial number anywhere on the tuba itself, or only on the removable leadpipe? I have 2 leadpipes (medium and large) and both have different serial numbers (so from two different horns). The medium pipe is the one that fits the most naturally, so I'm assuming the large is the mismatch. I need the serial number for insurance purposes, so it would be ideal to have it *on* the tuba somewhere else as well, and not on something that is easily removable or changeable. I can't seem to find it, but don't know if I'm overlooking it.

2) Does anyone know how to date it by serial number? Mine is labeled as a VMI (instead of B&S), and the s/n is 347xxx on the medium pipe.

3) Did all Neptunes come with hand-hammered bows? My top and bottom bows appear to be.

Thanks!

The only serial numbers of which I know are on the leadpipe. Yes, a rather stupid place when the Neptune lead pipe is removable.

Great, thanks!

German rotary tubas often have the serial # stamped on the bridge carrying the axle of the transmission springs. Try looking from the paddle side.

Klaus

Hello Bort,

A collegue of mine built your tuba. Shoot me a PM with any questions SN# etc. and I'm sure he would be more than happy to answer any questions you have.

Regarding your low D centering problem from another post. I've had two Neptune rotary models in my shop in Berlin and both had a similar problem although the solution was different for each one.

Neptune #1 simply had leaky corks on the tuning, 3rd, and 4th slides. Somehow it only affected that particular note...

Neptune #2 had a few broken braces and the resonance on the 4th valve D was considerably weakened compared to the surounding notes.

Best regards from Berlin,
TheBerlinerTuba (formerly 2165)

Wonderful, thank you! The 4th valve tubing is dented, so that would be my first guess for finding a fix. Checking the corks and braces is also a good idea. This horn is in outstanding condition, so my guess is those dents are just in the wrong nodal points to do any favors for that note. Will PM you when I am home and can send more info.

Vielen dank!

bloke wrote:fwiw...

I ain't sellin' my newly-acquired Neptune (piston) tuba...at least not for a good while.
I'm really enjoying that buttery bass sound.

Then it *must* be good... you've had them through your shop from time to time before though, right? Anything special or different about this particular one, or just the right horn at the right time?