Holton E-flat BAT questions

[WC8KCY]

Hi, all...I've got the Holton E-flat BAT pictured below.

1. Has anyone encountered the 4-valve version of this? The only one I've seen is a Chicago-era example on eBay, and it was too damaged to bid on.

2. Any recommendations for a technician in the mid-Michigan area?

[tclassen]

I don't know about top valves. But if you are talking about the front valve version, Dave Fedderly at Baltimore Brass has one in raw brass for sale.

http://www.baltimorebrass.net/pic.php?id=1473" target="_blank" target="_blank

[WC8KCY]

I have eyesight issues that dictate that I use a top-action tuba.

I live in Manistee, so a drive to Lansing for major service is no big deal.

My Holton needs its valves replated. I am contemplating adding a fourth valve to it--but the privileged tones are so strong and accessible as it is now, I'm not 100% sure it would be worth it.

[Jess Haney]

I have seen one done as a 3+1 without a compensating system from the Holton factory. A friend of mine owns it and claims it was owned by Jacobs. Not sure if that is true but it does have 4 valves.