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I have big BBb Conn - I think 24/25J. 4 short action top action valves, with both upright and recording bells. I originally got it for the occasional outdoor concert where I'd be nervous about using my 163 Alex.

I've never really ever gotten comfortable holding the Conn - it's no lightweight after all. Finally thought I'd break down and ask the experts the best way of holding/supporting the horn, Come to think of it the BEST way would probably be to have someone else hold it for me, but failing that would like some suggestions for the SECOND best way.

Thanks much

Get a Wenger 'tuba tamer' and don't hold it at all!

At the very least buy a tuba rest. Baltimore Brass sells the best and the DEG would be my number two choice.

i have also heard some people use a sousaphone tuning bit,which alters the position of the tuba. I can not speak from personal experience, but I have read about this before.
k

With all due respect, there comes a point where a particular tuba simply isn't practical for a particular person (been there, done that!). Try the suggestions above, but if the Conn is too much to handle, that's okay... there are other bell-front options that are less unwieldy.

Good luck!

ken k wrote:i have also heard some people use a sousaphone tuning bit,which alters the position of the tuba. I can not speak from personal experience, but I have read about this before.
k

The 2XJ series of tubas were actually shipped with one bit. ... mostly for ergonomic purposes, I think.

Thanks for the suggestions. I think a lot of it is that I've played front valve horns most of the time and haven't quite got the hang of the "lefty" yet.

If the chair were big enough I could put the horn between my knees, but unfortunately I sort of fill the chair all by myself!

Do most folks hold these mostly vertical or leaning to the right?