Any comments on 5j's?

ArnoldGottlieb · Post by **ArnoldGottlieb** » Sun May 07, 2006 9:34 pm

Hi there,
I'm checking out a 90's 5J BBb and wondering what anybody's thoughts are regarding this horn. Thanks.
Peace.
ASG

quinterbourne · Post by **quinterbourne** » Sun May 07, 2006 10:51 pm

Much like the 3J CC, a great smaller ensemble horn but it tends to "break up" if you pump it too much. Definitely not a good horn if you're the only tuba in a larger sized band.

Otherwise, great intonation and great blend.

Art Hovey · Post by **Art Hovey** » Mon May 08, 2006 12:14 am

I have one that I picked up last year on Ebay, with some minor damage. I had to shorten the main slide by about 3/4" and the 3rd slide by an inch and a quarter to get it to play in tune at 440. With those modifications it plays very well, especially above the staff. (I do have to use 3rd valve for high G in the staff, though.) I find that it's hard to get a nice round tone on low F; it wants to blat down there. It is very comfortable to hold, and is designed well, with good solid construction. I put pull rods on the 2nd and 4th slides and freed them up so that they can be manipulated easily with the left hand. (The first and third are also accessible.)