Dependant 5th valves?

[Allover]

I have on my Mira the 51234 valve setup, with the valves slanted in a Marzan style.
Therefor the leadpipe is short, maybe 2/3 of the 186?
It can also be delivered as a 4 Valve configuration, then the leadpipe is equally longer, going directly into the 1.Valve.
When I ordered this I wanted the 5 Valve version, I mostly play alone, but is "allover" helping other bands missing a tuba..
I'v never been comfortable with the "false notes", and avoided these as often as I could, missing out of the depth often necessary in some music.
Now I didn't hesitate at all dropping the hammer. Still haven't got the hang of pulling
the first. Don't have the ears to tell me I need it.
Maybe they will tune in if I start?
Get Your 5th valve, friend.

[southtubist]

I have a dependent 5th on my F tuba. I've never had any comments about my low range being inadequate... As long as you can manipulate the 2nd valve slide, you won't need an independent 5th valve. I have a nice kicker on my 2nd slide. I absolutely love my F tuba- especially in the low range. I've never used a 5+2+3 combination on any tuba I've played.

Heck, my Alex has a 2+3 independent 5th valve. I don't remember what it is like to play with an independent flat whole step fifth valve. That was years ago...