Buying my first tuba or sousaphone

[mesnyder1]

I'm new here, but have enjoyed lurking for a bit.

I played tuba in college and high school (Lane Tech in Chicago, under Maurice Golden), and I'd like to start playing again. I had always used a school horn, so I've never owned one. I don't have a lot to spend right now, and I'm just looking for something that works to get started. I'd prefer a BBb tuba, but a BBb sousaphone would be ok for now as well.

Is something like this one I found on eBay worth pursuing and getting repaired, or am I better off getting something that I know works? This guy is local, so I'm hoping I can do local pickup and avoid shipping. Any advice or input is appreciated. Thanks!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/York-sousaphone ... 20ec3b6eaa" target="_blank" target="_blank" target="_blank

[iiipopes]

First, set a budget. Then start looking to see what is out there. Used tubas for community band can be anywhere from $500 to $5000, depending on the make, model and condition. New MiraClones are @$2500. Have someone else who knows about tubas, as you have done here, review any horns under consideration. Since you have played substantially in the past, do everything you can to try before you buy. You will know if any particular horn feels good to you.

Welcome back!

[ufonium2]

I sent you a PM about some local options I know of.

[michael_glenn]

I think this would suite your needs very well. viewtopic.php?f=4&t=61646" target="_blank

[mesnyder1]

That sousaphone is in Eb.

Thanks. That's what I suspected, looked to small to be a BBb.

[mesnyder1]

First, set a budget. Then start looking to see what is out there. Used tubas for community band can be anywhere from $500 to $5000, depending on the make, model and condition. New MiraClones are @$2500. Have someone else who knows about tubas, as you have done here, review any horns under consideration. Since you have played substantially in the past, do everything you can to try before you buy. You will know if any particular horn feels good to you.

Welcome back!

Thanks!

My budget is at the low end now, but better in a few months. I'll definitely reach out on any I'm looking at.

[bort]

Decide what your uses will be first... A lot of the time, a Sousaphone is not the best option, so unless you really need one, I would stick with a tuba.

[Donn]

Fiberglass-or-whatever sousaphones have their good points, but I'd check rather careful for anything that's broken or loose at any connection anywhere on it, from the bell collar to the leadpipe. craigslist is worth a look, you've got some local options there that could be good in the $1000 - $1500 range.

[ghmerrill]

Is something like this one I found on eBay worth pursuing and getting repaired, or am I better off getting something that I know works? This guy is local, so I'm hoping I can do local pickup and avoid shipping. Any advice or input is appreciated. Thanks!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/York-sousaphone ... 20ec3b6eaa" target="_blank" target="_blank" target="_blank" target="_blank

A $10 York E-flat Sousaphone? Be still my heart.