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So in my nearly 10 years of playing the tuba, not long compared to a lot of you, the only key I can't play in is EEb, or tuba key. I've only played like 3, but every time I played it had a warmth that the F tuba didn't have, so I'm considering buying maybe an old Besson Compensating EEb, or something comparable, so I can learn it and say that I can play in all 4 keys.

I figure since all I do is play in community band anyway it shouldn't matter too much. I have taken time with an EEb, I borrowed an OLD one that had been redone, it was from the 30s or 40s. It only had 3 valves.

So I guess I'm asking if I was to go through with this, what EEb would be good to buy? I know the Yamahas are great, because I've played one of those and it was spectacular, the Bessons are good, but what else is out there? I'm itching to learn a new key tuba, since I've done the traditional BBb, CC, and F.

Thanks in advance!

I can recommend a Besson New Standard or a Boosey Hawkes Imperial for a good used tuba or if you want a newer design a Besson 981 or one of its clones.
4 valves is a must if you want a full easily accessible range

I suggest you try the Wessex horns before you buy anything - particularly the Wessex Gnagey.

jeopardymaster wrote:I suggest you try the Wessex horns before you buy anything - particularly the Wessex Gnagey.

Where can I find a dealer or a person with one in the US?

KiltieTuba wrote:You're talking about the ~13.5 ft Eb not the ~27ft EEb, right?

Yes, the standard Eb.

Here's a small one for sale:

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=61391" target="_blank" target="_blank

I like my Norwegian Star a lot!

I'm playing a Wessex Eb Solo and love it. Low end is impressive and the sound is very rich. I've been very pleasantly surprised by it.