King Giant Sousaphone – Late 1920s

[Nigel]

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Here we have King “giant” ready to play: model 1270 with serial number 93619, probably from around 1927. For those unfamiliar with these horns, they were part of a craze in the early 20th century for exceptionally large tubas. This one has a 28” bell, 0.750 bore, and weighs about 30 pounds. The horn is in very good condition with most of the gold lacquer intact and a nice assortment of dings and dents appropriate to its age. The valves work smoothly and have recently been serviced. All slides move. The guard on the lower bow has become slightly loose at one end and may need to be re-soldered. I’ll include two goosenecks: one about an inch taller than the other, and two Conn bits.

I’ve had this horn for 20 years and have always enjoyed it’s rich, powerful sound. It blows easily and is not at all stuffy. My director says is projects strongly, so it’s not necessary to work hard to make a big sound.

Asking $2,700. I’m located in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, so you’re welcome to stop by and give it a try. I’m not comfortable trying to pack the horn for shipping, but we can discuss other ways of getting it home. (I’ve had good luck shipping tubas with a courier service called “Roadie”.) Payment by PayPal only.

Just in time for tuba Christmas – impress your friends with this massive horn!

Nigel

[Nigel]

More pictures.

[oscarcahue]

Looks in great shape.
I've been wanting to try a giant to find out how the sound compares.
& how back killing it is. Good Luck !

[Steve Oberheu]

Pm sent.

[toobagrowl]

I played on an overhauled/refurbished silver-plated King 'Giant' sousa back in the day -- excellent sousa For those wondering, they are the same general size as a Conn 20k or Yamaha 411.

[Nigel]

Sold!