Posted by Kenneth Sloan on February 15, 2004 at 14:09:22:
In Reply to: Re: Re: ?s on low budget tubas posted by K on February 15, 2004 at 05:48:18:
"The fourth valve is essential"
Hogwash.
The fourth valve is *useful* and *desirable* - but if we are talking about budget priced tubas, I would be a lot happier with a section-mate playing a quality 3V instrument (usually taking the top line of a divisi) than only playing a cheap 4V instrument.
When you are on a budget, you have to decide where to cut corners. Largely because of silly prejudices, quality 3V instruments are available at true bargain prices.
The original poster would be well served by acquiring a sound 3V instrument and getting back to playing. When he gets into a situation where the 4th valve is really "essential", he can sell the 3V for what he paid for it, and trade up. by then, he'll be strongly motivated to work with a larger budget.