Vintage Besson Sousaphone

[duderubble]

I haven't logged in in a long time, but I was antique shoping today and saw a Sousaphone for what seemed like a decent price, valves were free and it looked to be in decent usable sousaphone shape (plenty of little dents in the main bow but nothing critical. Seemed small for a sousa. The price on it was $140. Is that worth getting just to flip?

In fact I'm so nice I would divulge the location if someone wanted to just go pick it up for themselves in the Missouri Ozarks. It has a Conn Euph/Trombone mouthpiece in it you could send me as a finders fee, lol.

[David Richoux]

If it looked small it was probably an Eb, so not quite as desirable as a BBb. At $140 you might get a few hundred more by flipping, but it all depends on condition and quality of the horn.

If it actually is a BBb it would be worth going back for it!

[WilliamVance]

I used to own a 1930s era Besson BBb Sousa, which was a good player. It ook ordering the right neck and bits for and a first piston with honing job. $140 is a steal if all the parts are present.

[pjv]

and if you're into a heavy sousaphone.

[duderubble]

Thanks for the replies. I'll have to take a closer look next time.

[imperialbari]

Bring your mouthpiece and a bottle of valve oil for a realistic try-out.

Klaus