Re: Re: Alex double tuba


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Posted by Brent Herhold on April 22, 2003 at 11:35:51:

In Reply to: Re: Alex double tuba posted by T. J. Ricer on April 21, 2003 at 14:50:46:

I e-mailed Tony, re this ax, and this was his reponse; thought you might be interested:


The 166 is an excellent F tuba, but the CC side is a challenge to play on.
It is NOT a full double, but rather a compensating double. When playing on
the CC side, the air goes through BOTH sets of valve slides as you engage
them, rather like the compensating euphonium. Some notes are kind of funky,
very typical of the low notes on a small rotary F, but not unworkable by any
means. Low Bb on down play fine. The chief advantage, is that you have
accessible notes from both tubas. For instance, the flat 5th partials (f#,
g, ab, a) on the f tuba, can be played on the CC, making them 6th or 8th
partial noted on the CC. Similarly, the first line G and the F# just below
it, rather than playing them as 4 or 2&4, can be played open or 2nd valve on
the CC. Like any tuba, you are purchasing a sound. If you like the Alex F
sound, or are looking for a unique sound, this might work for you. It is a
BIT expensive (about $7200) but cheaper than the Yamaha 822 or PT's. The
valves are brass with a teflon core; all the friction areas are solid brass.
Weight is not really an issue, I have played Meinl F's that are heavier.
Email me privately if you need more info. I need to make a decision on this
within a week or so. If no interest, back it goes. Thanks.

Tony Clements



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