Posted by J.D. Tolman on August 04, 2003 at 00:30:40:
The time has come for me to buy my own tuba. I've *mostly* been a clarinet player, but I've been playing tuba as well on the side. Now, I want to make Tuba my main instrument - I far prefer playing it, and I really am probably better at playing tuba these days. I'm looking to spend about $3,000-$3,500 MAX for an instrument. I play in a community band, will (most likey) be playing in my university's wind ensemble, and possibly a brass quintet. I don't really have aspirations to play professionally, but who knows what may happen later in life.
So how does one choose the perfect instrument for them? I will most likely be buying from an online retailer (hardly ANYONE carry's Tubas in the St. Louis area), so I don't have the luxury of playing a zillion horns till I find that one the speaks to me. ;) I've really only played on crappy instruments, with the exception of my friend's new Conn 5j. I do know that I want 4 valves, no real preference of piston/rotor. I very much enjoy play pedal tones and using the low end in general, so if some brands or models of horns are more adept for playing down there, I might want to look into those. I would also like something that really sings beautifully in the mid-upper register, that can give me a nice balls-to-the-wall sound overall when needed, but will still lend to softer more delicate playing as well. I'm a short guy, but I still think I want a nice big 4/4 tuba.
I'm also interested in hearing how the silent brass tuba mute works for people. I live in a high rise apartment, and I don't really want my neighbors complaining. (Too many doctor's and old people here!)
Some instruments that look and sound nice (based on their descriptions and reviews).....
Allora Model AA186 - http://www.music123.com/Item/?itemno=102153
Cerveny ABB 681 - http://www.music123.com/Item/?itemno=68624
VMI 2103 - http://www.music123.com/Item/?itemno=68917
Conn 2300 - http://www.music123.com/Item/?itemno=26338
Conn 5j - http://www.music123.com/Item/?itemno=22170
Can anyone make recommendations, or suggestions of other instruments in this price range that might best suit my needs? I really do appreciate any help you can offer.
Thanks,
J.D. Tolman