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Just curious if anyone played the Wessex solo compensating e flat tuba and th Gnagey and how they compared against each other and also the John packer e flat tuba.
Any thoughts would be appreciated, and yes I realize there might be quite a few opinions. . Thanks for the help. Unfortunately I don't have the opportunity to play all three back to back. How is the valve layout on the Gnagey compared to a B&S? Any smaller valve block or easier to depress?

I've played both the JP Sterling and the Wessex Solo. The JP Sterling in my opinion was a much better instrument. The fit, finish, and pllaying characteristics on the JP Sterling are on par if not better than tbe new Besson 981s. However, you will pay more for the JP Sterling than the Wessex Solo. The Wessex Solo is a very nice instrument, it just depends on your budget .

Was the jp easier in the low register ? Did you try the Gnagey model?

Were the Packers the 277 or the 377?

The packer here is the 377

The JP responded better in the low range and overall had a more resonant sound. The JP Sterling isnt just a good tuba for the money it's the real deal. I owned a JP for a while as well as a new Besson 981 and the JP was as good if not better than the Besson.

I haven't played the new Wessex Gnagey.

The low register is more open on the Gnagey than is possible on a compensated Eb due to the wide open 4th valve loop, but can't compare the valve layout to B&S.

The 17" bell on Solo, Gnagey, or Besson 980 will give more focused tone than the regular 19" as on Packer.

The fit and finish on the latest Wessex is noticeablely better than just one year ago (we are improving rapidly), while the latest have new hardened bells that improves response and projection.

Which to go for depends on personal taste, requirements and budget. Go to ITEC in June and compare all models under consideration if you can.

My thoughts on the "Solo" and "Gnagey" are here:

viewtopic.php?f=2&t=70211&start=24#p574 ... et="_blank

Sorry, but I don't know the Packer horn.