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Three months ago, I added another tuba to my collection. I wanted to test drive the horn for a while before posting comments. It's a Jupiter 482 "Pro" model 3/4 BBb. It came with a very nice case with wheels. My other horns are Cerveny, Miraphone, and Meinl Weston. The fit and finish of the new Jupiter equals or exceeds all the others, and the horn arrived CLEAN inside and out. All slides are smooth. The valves appear to be stainless steel, and are very fast. Best of all, the intonation is the best of any tuba I've ever played, and the tone quality is very good. Response in the low range is surprisingly resonant.

Now, don't count on cranking this horn in a large band or orchestra, but as a small ensemble or quintet tuba, this thing is great. This instrument is the little cousin to the jumbo BBb Jupiter 582 concert tuba which has been favorably discussed on this board in the past.

I hope this photo link works.

http://tinypic.com/9igvgg.jpg

"Pro" model?

Is there a "pro" model for the 482?

What is the difference for the standard student level 482?

I believe the "Pro" nomenclature came from a Brasswind catalog several issues back. I no longer have that copy. However, checking the Brasswind online site, the Jupiter 382 is referred to as a student model, whereas the 482 and 582 now are referred to as "concert" models. I guess the implication of those hype words is that the 482 is a step above Jupiter's student line. (?) Whatever the case may be, I really like the way the 482 is built and the way it plays. It's a lot of horn for the money.

How does this instrument compare to a Yamaha 621, Weril J680
or Melton 18? Did you have the occasion to compare with any of these?

I played both the 482 and the 582.

I find the 582 better then the smaller one.

Sounds very well and it's very easy to play.

The MW 25 has a warmer tone. But not as easy to play. And far more expensive.

I like the 582. For the money or not for the money its a tuba fun to play with a good sound.

Very nice open wrapping. and graduated bore.