Miraphone 186 question

[Monty]

Im looking at a Miraphone with 5 valves- only I dont know what notes the 5th valve is for.... can someone please enlighten me?

Also, does anyone have experience with these 186 Miras? Thanks

[Chuck(G)]

Im looking at a Miraphone with 5 valves- only I dont know what notes the 5th valve is for.... can someone please enlighten me?

Also, does anyone have experience with these 186 Miras? Thanks

Depends on the vintage and origin--Miraphones are made with both a long whole-step valve and one that corresponds to a 2+3 fingering (5 semitones). The idea of either is the same--to enable you to play the low register in tune.

Let's assume that you need to play a low Eb on a 4-valve BBb tuba. 14 will usually be too sharp and 124 will be too flat. You could use false tones and play it open, but the better solution is to use the 5th valve. So, for example, on a long-whole-step system, 45 will nail Eb perfectly. As a side benefit, 5 valves will allow you to play chromatically down to the pedal BBb.

As mass-produced tubas go, the 186 is hard to beat for uniformity, workmanship and good intonation.

[Monty]

Thanks - I knew I could count on the force.....