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Can anyone provide feedback on the Dillon Music line of BBb tubas, especially models 1795, 641 and 12915? I'm particularly interested in the intonation, build quality, valve quality and reliability of the Dillon tubas compared to other Chinese made tubas, and their relatively value compared to new or used instruments like the Cerveny 686, Miraphone 184 / 186, Meinl Weston 25, or B&S GR51 models. Thanks.

I've played the 1795 model, oddly named after it's price, or so it seems.

It feels between 3/4 and full size but is light, has decent sound and a long stack on it.

I don't know what it is a clone of.

The lead pipe is oddly placed and interferes with where I naturally hold onto the tuba and fear I could damage or crush it.

Although I prefer pistons, the paddles on this rotary felt smaller and faster than other full size tubas.

I liked its feel and sound while playing.

I can't speak for the durability of the valves except that which is well known and documented on these pages for affordable JB/Chinaclone tubas.

I owned a 1795 for about a year, and sold it because I never really got used to the feel of rotary valves (not these rotary valves, particularly, just any rotary valves). I didn't have any issues with build quality, and I think it's a decent horn at that price point. I wouldn't expect the 1795 to be of a quality similar to Miraphone, MW, etc. although I haven't owned those horns.

Hup

We have 2 of the 641's we purchased for our school. The rotors need to be oiled more often than the actual Yamaha 641 we have, but I love them. The intonation is actually a little more consistent in the staff. KILLER low range. I have them on PT-48's. I am a believer!!!!!

I have used one of these in a pops orchestra setting, and it put the
bottom on our 90 piece group with no effort...

The case sucks.......