This is a rip-off of the (rarely sold) M-W 186, isn't it?

[aqualung]

No, it's a rip-off of the E. F. Durand model.

[PMeuph]

No, it's a rip-off of the E. F. Durand model.

[Ken Herrick]

So the advertised specs would imply, though I always thought the real thing had a slightly larger bore......

"Designed after the 186 series of Germany's most famous tuba makers, this tuba plays and performs like tubas costing thousands more. Featuring four rotary valves with mechanical linkage and metal ball joint. This tuba is made for the band director and performer for many years of dependable service. Other features include a 16mm bore, 38 cm brass bell, nickel silver lead pipe and inner and outer slides, lacquered finish, and a lightweight case with wheels and back pack assembly."

Maybe the word "after" is the key if taken to mean "later".

One might well ask; What ever happened to truth in advertising?

Wonder if they would take my real 186 as a trade in to cover a downpayment - then I'd have a shiny new horn that I could then rebuild when it falls apart in 18 months.

[Dan Schultz]

.... Wonder if they would take my real 186 as a trade in to cover a downpayment - then I'd have a shiny new horn that I could then rebuild when it falls apart in 18 months.

+1