Posted by Russ Dickman on August 30, 2003 at 12:12:29:
I just wanted to post a photo of my new Miraphone 184cc as many of you are interested in the new release. The bell is 15" with a nickel silver rim. The lead pipe is nickel silver. I haven't measured the bore but believe it to be .705. The horn is about 37" tall. Valves 1-4 rotate in the same direction and the 5th valve is a flat whole step. The tuba is VERY well put together and of superb quality. The valve linkage has been updated to a type of mini ball connection and they are FAST and quiet. The tuba has a very good scale and the bottom end really rocks! The E in the staff (open) is a bit flat (15 cents) and lipable (1-2 is perfect). The rest of the scale is dead on or very close. I believe that I can set the slides and go. I am experimenting with various mouthpieces at this time and find the intonation to vary a little so the right mouthpiece really makes a difference. The sound is very focused, colorful and projects well. This will be a great tuba for quintet and small ensembles.
Have a good one,
Russ Dickman