Question about NEW Miraphone 188's

[bort]

A question for the owners of NEW (last few years) Miraphone 188's... Am I remembering correctly that the linkage of the 5th valve is in the style of the Miraphone 1291? (i.e., the lever is a "bar" and not a "spatula")? If so, could someone please be so kind as to post or send me a photo?

I am considering having my 5th valve re-fit with this "bar" type, since I liked it a lot on my 1291 and since the 188 lever is a bit "wide" for my hand as-is anyway. And for any repair folks reading this, any sort of wild guess what it might cost (parts and labor)?

Thanks!

[Ferguson]

Yes, new 188 tubas come with the 1291 style 5th linkage. Here's a pic of a 186 with that linkage:



I can arrange the parts for you. If we're quick to arrange something, I'll be in Germany in 2 weeks and may be able to pick them up from Marcus Theinert there, thus saving some shipping.

I recently got a quote from them for some trigger parts for a main tuning slide. It was about $250. I'd bet this is half of that. Trigger, bridge, spring, rod, and?

Best,

Steve Ferguson
sales@hornguys.com" target="_blank

[tclements]

I prefer a nice, wide paddle for the 5th valve, rather than the little bar....

[Bob Kolada]

I prefer the wider bar over the paddle, but anything's better than those tucked in MW paddles. Bleh...

[bort]

Thanks Steve! I always liked the bar, very comfortable. Worth a shot at least, nothing that can't be undone!

[Joe Stanko]

Brett, you have been given a wonderful opportunity by Steve..RUN, don't walk to accept this terrific offer!

Joe

[Wyvern]

Go for it Brett if that's what you like!

I recently tried a Norwegian Star with such a bar at Mr.Tuba and did not like the feel myself, preferring the paddle as on B&S tubas. However when I mentioned to Mark Carter he said most customers prefer the bar - interesting how our likes vary and good there is a choice!

[Norm in Bellevue]

When Steve Ferguson brought a gold brass 188 to the Jan. 2009 SEATEC in Seattle, it had the new linkage, as did the wonderful Petruschka. I definitely prefer the new linkage to the old, but not enough to have my 188 converted. I recall it being quicker and lighter action.

[bort]

I received a nice little box of parts from Steve Ferguson this morning with my new linkage. Now, to have it installed!

Thanks, Steve!