Owners of the Conn 20K Sousaphone

[WoodSheddin]

Handles bus trips through graveyards. 40mph winds driving rain in 35 degree temperatures don't faze it. Does seem to have a problem with mud sticking to it and fouling up clothing. Holding the horn very very still for 1 hour under a cloudless 100 degree noon sky does little to deter the mechanical function. Overall I give it a 4 out of 5 stars.

sean "should work for Consumer Reports" chisham

[TubaRay]

It's good that you have kept you sense of humor, Sean.

[Hank74]

Well I can't qualify about the Conn, since I own a silver Jupiter instead. But I like what I have and would at least suggest that you shop around different brands before making a decision.

As for the mouthpiece, I'd go with the Helleburg cup/funnel shaped one. That's a popular item you can get from WWBW. Great tool to get to the really low notes.

Hank74

[Lew]

I had a lacquered one that I was very happy with. Silver plate is nice for looks, but does require additional maintenance. I used it to play with my college alumni marching band, and for the occasional outdoors community band concert. It was great for the solo part on Tuba Tiger Rag.

I sold it when I needed money more than a horn that I used a few times a year. I would suggest not even considering buying a new one. You can find them used in very good condition for much less than a new one. I paid $1200 for mine in excellent condition with just a few insignificant dings. That's probably a little less than the market, but you can find them in playing condition for as little as $2000 sometimes, or for much less on ebay needing some work.

[MichaelDenney]

I played a satin silver 20K in college and found that the finish needed very little maintenance. A 24AW worked well for me in the day, but I have read that a Conn 2 is the choice of many for this horn.