TubeNet

Ok, so everytime I post I end up only looking for a specific kind of instrument but this time I am gonna be broad. I am looking for a good, get me through the rest of college but will never regret buying it horn. I want a horn that has good response, intonation, sound the whole deal. I am looking for a used horn obviously and my price range is 4500-5500(hopefully). Please let me know the possibilities. As far as brands go Meinl Weston, Besson, Getzen, Gronitz, yamaha ect. Thanks everyone.


JB

look one post down(Chuck Jackson-Yamaha 641)....and it's within driving distance of Flagstaff for play testing! These tubas are enjoyable to play and what I would call an all-around instrument.

forgot to add, I am looking for a CC horn, thanks for the reply though, I have had good experiences with the 641's

JB

The Meinl Weston 2145 CC is one of the best all around tubas available. There have been a couple listed here on this forum recently.

EO

I would ask Chuck Jackson whether it's a CC or a BBb. Also, there is a PT-4 being sold below for $5000!!! That's a great deal. I realize they recently replaced this model with the new PT-20 but if he's taken care of this horn you can't go wrong for the price. As far as the 2145, I know people jump on this band wagon. However, if you are a young person who hasn't really decided what you might want to pursue in 5-10 years I would advise going with something else. As a previous owner of this horn I can tell you it can be too light for ensembles over the size of a quintet. Lighter stuff within an orchestra works as long as you don't mind sounding like an F tuba until you get to C below the staff and lower (-even the E, Eb, D and Db below the staff sound too light and bright for a CC tuba). In fact, it has almost the same body as my 45slp. The 2145 is also very inconsistent(from horn to horn) in pitch and sound. I would say I got lucky with mine, so BE PICKY with a used one. If you are going to own only one horn and never play in a large(60-80 piece) ensemble for a living then the 2145 might be a good choice. Great response below low C. I would just say it's mainly a solo/quintet/chamber horn. I will say plugging a heavy weight mouthpiece into this horn can make it a cannon! Good Luck in your choice!

james

Just wanted to clear up that I don't think the 2145 is a bad instrument. In fact, if you find a good one it can be a great and very fun instrument to play. I would just say this is a different type of horn. It's either the only horn you'll own OR a middle horn for a small F/Eb and a large CC/BBb. I just wouldn't advise it for a 1 CC Tuba/ 1 F Tuba combo because it won't contrast your F tuba enough. If it'll be your only axe, go for it. It'll fit into just about any situation if you play it right with the right group.

viewtopic.php?t=7258