PT-6P Ergonomics and "big valves"?

[The Tuba Fish]

I know this is a somewhat subjective question, but how are the ergonomics on a PT-6P? I'm about 5'6"-5'8", so I'm just wondering what smaller players think of the ease of holding, the leadpipe height and angle, and how the big pistons on the horn feel with smallish-medium sized hands. Thanks!

[tubaport]

I'm about 5'7, 155 pounds, and was also worried about the ergonomics prior to buying my PT6P. Like all tubas, it just takes some time to get use to. If you sit it on the chair and angle the bell straight up, the leadpipe is lined up well. However, if you like to rest your left arm above the horn and use the first value slide, it is quite uncomfortable on the chair. I use a tuba rest stand, and have adjusted well. With the stand positioned slightly lower than the chair, I can angle the horn just enough to where the leadpipe lines up well and I can reach the first valve slide comfortably.

The big valve pistons never really bothered me, but if you are worried, you can always consider the rotary model. Personally, once you get the pistons moving smoothly, I've had no problems at all with comfort.

It is by far the best CC tuba I've ever owned and I wish I would have started with one from the beginning. Highly recommended! Hope this helps!

[The Tuba Fish]

Thanks, tubaport. It seems like it's a fairly ergonomically flexible large horn.

[Tom]

Just a general comment re: big valve ergonomics...

I currently own one big-valved tuba (and owned another in the past). I have also played many other tubas with big vales.

Initially I thought as if all big valved tubas were an ergonomic nightmare, but I've since realized that much of the problem [that I have] is because of the often terrible placement of the thumb ring and/or 5th valve paddle. It's something to consider if you like the tuba but can't stand the hand position. The 5th valve and thumb ring setup on my SLP was redone to resemble a 2165 (gets the 5th paddle more into your palm area), far more friendly than the stock location in which the 5th paddle is way up high. I could not and would not play that model of tuba without that modification.

Personally I think that the larger PT tubas have some of the worst stock 5th valve paddle setups around, but they're popular tubas, so I perhaps I'm way off base?

[Eric Fritz]

I am 5 8 and I've played a 6p for 10 years and love it. I find this tuba to be one of the most comfortable tubas for me to play. I rest the tuba on the chair between my legs which prompted me to buy a new practice chair and a chair for work which is rather flat without a slope backwards. I did have to get used to the stretch of the right arm to the valves but figured that out and have no problem playing for long periods of time. Good luck.