Whither Rudi?

circusboy · Post by **circusboy** » Wed Apr 04, 2007 1:27 pm

Who's currently selling the Rudolf Meinl line of tubas in the USA these days?

I've looked at all the stores' websites with which I'm familiar, and nary a Rudi was to be found.

Not that I'm looking to buy one just now, but it's comforting to know that they're available should I win the lottery.

Tom · Post by **Tom** » Wed Apr 04, 2007 2:14 pm

Lee Stofer deals with Rudy Meinls.

WWBW did at one time and might still have a few around, though they might be a little picked over.

Not sure where else...

Hope that helps,

Tom

circusboy · Post by **circusboy** » Wed Apr 04, 2007 5:16 pm

Lee Stofer's certainly a great guy, and I'd trust him on any horn purchase, but he doesn't have a single RM horn in stock now. Too bad he or someone else doesn't keep at least one each of their more popular models on hand at all times for trying out.

Alex F · Post by **Alex F** » Wed Apr 04, 2007 9:53 pm

Dealers don't receive horns for free. They have to be paid for up front and then sit around depreciating until someone "wins the lottery" or otherwise scrapes up enough money to buy them. The dealer bears the risk of damage or theft until that happens. Given the cost of most "high end" tubas, you won't find too many sitting around the shops of too many dealers.

Captain Sousie · Post by **Captain Sousie** » Wed Apr 04, 2007 10:27 pm

Alex F wrote:Dealers don't receive horns for free. They have to be paid for up front and then sit around depreciating until someone "wins the lottery" or otherwise scrapes up enough money to buy them. The dealer bears the risk of damage or theft until that happens. Given the cost of most "high end" tubas, you won't find too many sitting around the shops of too many dealers.

Spoil-sport

Even with that fact in mind, it would be nice to actually be able to try or even view a multi-thousand dollar item before making the investment should one win the lottery.