New 2341 inspection

[sffz]

I am going to test a new King 2341 for my HS band program. I know there have been some issues with valves etc. in the past. Have most of these issues been solved? Does anyone have some specific things to look out for on this model? The last tubas were purchased in the 60's. If were gonna hang on to this for the next 40 years, I want to avoid a lemon.

Thanks

Randy

[Uncle Markie]

I would make an agreement with the dealer to have the valves lapped in a little better if necessary - by hand - by his repairman. I had this work done with mine, and since then several other tuba players (we're talking professionals who shall remain nameless) have been Jonesing me for this horn because of its slick valve action. These guys owned the older Kings. "Let me know if you ever want to sell it..."

I have had no problems with valve plating - just a lack of "final finish" that can be done by a competent repair guy. Mine has aftermarket nylon valve guides, which are quiet and do not hang up - ever. I don't think those are hard to find.

Take your first chair player down to the dealer and check 'em out before accepting delivery. I find mine has a easy scale, big fat sound in the bottom, and remarkably good intonation. The open notes check out. I've used mine for everything, including orchestra gigs. Sounds great in a band.

I've always wondered what three-valve version plays like - might actually be BETTER...

Mark Heter

[sloan]

One small testing tip - which was (for me) 100% effective in separating the sheep from the goats.

Play notes that can be played with/without the 4th valve (e.g., the F at the bottom of the staff).
While playing, push the 4th valve up and down. Pay attention to the tone quality and response.
If there is virtually no difference - you have a winner. If not....not.

This certainly doesn't cover everything you care about - but, as I say, it turned out to be remarkably effective for me.

[SousaSaver]

King 2341 Tubas are good horns. Fit and finish on these are usually pretty good. I haven't had any complaints with them in my own experience.

[sloan]

King 2341 Tubas are good horns. Fit and finish on these are usually pretty good. I haven't had any complaints with them in my own experience.

I emphatically agree with the first sentiment, and can't argue with the third - but the second is dubious. Kings are well known for high variance in fit, finish, and sometimes sound. Try before you buy!

When I was looking, I probably played 10 before picking one (and on the day I bought, I was able to choose from among 4 or 5).

It made a difference (in my opinion).

[EdFirth]

Many acurate observations here. I have an old style as well as a new style King and the one thing that hasn't been mentioned here is the one problem I had with my newer one. Like Uncle Markie mentioned the plastic valve guides quiet them down and a little lapping is usually OK on a new horn but my valves were still hanging up and it turned out to be burrs in the groove where the valve guide moves. Bloke has made mention of this and I experienced it with a Meinl Weston 2155 and a Conn 5J as well. The fix is simple and easy if, like Bloke, or Matt Walters, or Tom Treece, or Lee Stofer you are aware of the problem. Lesser repairmen can lap the valves into oblivion and they will still stick because lapping doesn't correct this condition. All of this being said Mark's suggestion about taking your best kid down to pick one is excellent and if the valves Do eventually begin to stick(and cleaning doesn't help) just get someone who is familiar with the procedure to do it. My horns havn't had ANY valve issues since Tom fixed them except when they are dirty.These are really great sounding tubas. Good luck. Ed