Lightweight Sousaphone for NO Style Brassband

[GBattista]

I'm looking for a new sousaphone for my New Orleans-style brass band. Right now I play on fiberglass Conn that's ok, but I prefer the older & lighter fiberglass King that we have floating around in the tuba room. Since the group is almost always amplified (with a mic shoved down the bell), i'd prefer a horn with easy flexibility and clear articulation rather than a big-projecting dark sound. And yes, most importantly, light weight. There is no budget, it just has to be a new instrument.

I've checked out Woodwind and Brasswind and noticed that they have the big brands (yamaha, conn, king, etc.) but are there any other options and manufacturers out there that put out a good product.

What are your thoughts?

Greg Battista

[Steve Oberheu]

I've gotten great results with a King 2350. All brass, lightweight, nice tight response and big enough sound. Taylor Music in SD refurbishes lots of older ones. Check them out: http://www.1800usaband.com" target="_blank

[Donn]

I see Conn-Selmer describes the current King 2370 as a "slightly smaller bore than the 20K", so ... same as the old one?

[ken k]

ask bloke for a custom paint job...

[GBattista]

Thanks for the responses everyone. Seems like I need to just get my hands on some different models.