Best way to get info thru serial #s?

[bentuba7]

Hey, I'm looking for the best way to find information on my two instruments. I own a Meinl Weston (Division of Getzen) 46, and a Hirsbrunner HB-2. Should I email the the respective companies? Does someone somewhere out there have a big magic book of serial numbers? Basically what I'm looking for is CarFax, but for tubas... So TubaFax.

I know there are some historians on this site

Both horns were made in 1981 I believe.

Thanks in advance!!!

[rodgeman]

I e-mailed Miraphone for information for my tuba. I would start with the companies.

[bort]

I agree, the companies can tell you some things, or at least a more precise date for the tuba or that model. They may know a little more info than that, but I'd guess that especially for a 30 year old tuba, they wouldn't have much more to add. Sales and marketing depts usually have "just enough" historical/background information to keep people happy. After all, their real job is to design and sell new instruments.

Also, unless you know the previous owner(s), you will never konw the full background/history of the instrument and it's repairs!