1900's Conn Eb tuba

[royjohn]

Hi Tuba Gurus,

I was offered a 1900's era Conn Eb tuba with four upright valves. From pix it appears to be a regular size Eb rather than a Monster. Since a valve job will be factored into the offered price, valve condition is not a big concern. I just wondered if anyone had played one of these, whether there are big intonation issues, a stuffy bottom, bad tone, etc. If reviews here are good, I do plan on having someone proficient try the tuba [which is way far from me] before making an offer.

Thanks for any help you can offer.

Best Regards,
royjohn

[Alex C]

Depends on the demand of your playing.

I picked one up many years ago and had tons of work done on it. The valves were redone at Andersons which almost required that the horn be disassembled so almost all the dents were taken out and care was taken on re-assembly soldering.

It never came up to my hopes and the quintet I was playing in felt relieved when I quit using it. Couldn't sell it in those days so I had to give it away.

ERGO... I wouldn't recommend you take on this project. Save your $ for something better.