Posted by Matt Walters on April 17, 2001 at 21:04:28:
In Reply to: Retail Dealers and "Trial Periods" posted by A Guy in CA on April 17, 2001 at 13:48:34:
California Dude,
First I want to say thank you to Jeff R., Bob, and Thor for taking a few minutes to share their good experiences.
From a merchants view, we don't want to send a tuba to a customer who can't really afford to buy it. Hence, we have a policy at Dillon Music that the horn needs to be bought before we ship the horn. The seven day trial begins after the horn is received. It is difficult enough to maintain a horn in new condition in a store setting. Imagine the shape the horns would be in if people could have the use of the horn for 14 days trial (really just borrowing it) with no money but shipping (if it applies) up front. Some people will only take care of what is dear to them. Extensions are made for when a student's teacher had to miss a scheduled lesson, etc. Things like that happen. The truth is, you can tell if a horn is a good match for you (articulation, intonation, sound, comfort) in about 20 minutes. Take it to an ensemble rehersal to verify it blends in, yet projects. If you like it, it works in your ensemble, and the fellow musicians you trust like it, then you have a keeper. Mastering any new tuba, is then up to you. I keep threatening to write an article on "How to Pick a Tuba." When done right, you will know you have picked out or received a good tuba.