Posted by Rick Denney on February 24, 2001 at 22:44:04:
In Reply to: Re: Pls read before flaming: BBb vs. CC? posted by Dale on February 24, 2001 at 16:45:49:
I've heard several people play Miraphone 184 BBb tubas in quintet and solo settings, and I have to say I'm not fond of them. The last quintet I heard with a tuba player using a 184--you couldn't hear him.
Now, I know it's just that guy, and all that, so I don't need to be corrected by hearing a list of Great Players who do wonderful things on 184's.
But I've also heard a number of regular, non-great players using 186's in quintet, and they sound Just Fine. It is a small enough horn for quintet, especially if you are bringing two horns (including your Besson).
And the 186 will hold its own in any ensemble that allows amateur or semi-pro players.
I love my York Master, but it ain't for sale, and they don't make 'em anymore. And I'm not selling my Miraphone (for a reason), but they DO make those for a good price, and even good used examples are generally available.
Rick "a 186 BBb is as good as the 186 CC Steve was thinking about" Denney