Posted by Jim on August 22, 2003 at 12:15:18:
In Reply to: Re: Buying New Tuba - NEED HELP PLEASE! posted by Paul on August 22, 2003 at 09:00:02:
Both of the horns mentioned (Fafner and 1291) are great horns. I have played both and they play very easily; but consider that you don't or will not have a player or players who can fill the bottom end of the Fafner or the 1291 clearly and on pitch, without a lot of work. It has been my experience that the Miraphone 186 (.770 bore) is hands down, the best horn on the market. It has rotary valves which are low maintenance (given that they get the correct maintenance at the correct intervals/situations)and a beautiful sound that blends well in concert/symphonic bands. You really owe it to your students to play (or have played for you) several horns. I recommend Dillon Music in New Jersey as the place to do it. You don't mention where you are located (I have not read the all the posts,yet), but there are at least 4 other places around the country, where you could 'try before you buy.'
Should you wish to discuss this further; please e-mail me off board.