Posted by Sean Chisham on January 06, 1999 at 15:48:38:
In Reply to: Alexander opportunity posted by Dean Norman on January 06, 1999 at 15:39:33:
Alexander still makes instruments, but is currently better know for their horns than their tubas. They will make a tuba, I understand, if you are willing to pay enough, ie custom built. They are sort of a cult tuba now. They were one of the only games in town when they were being made. Most people I know who have played them or owned them say they are notorious for having intonation tendencies which were squirrelly. Seems there really is no "liking" the instrument. You either love it or you hate it. These are just observations made from conversations. I have never actually played one myself.
As far as being a 4 valve instrument, several place around the country have trusty repairman who could add another valve for a modest charge. Personally, I would make the addition of a 5th valve a priority if I were to purchase it.
sean