Re: Fixing up an old miraphone


[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ TubeNet BBS ] [ FAQ ]

Posted by Doug Whitten on January 16, 2003 at 13:12:25:

In Reply to: Fixing up an old miraphone posted by DC on January 16, 2003 at 11:43:53:

4th Valve - The Sharp 4th valve, actually tuned like a 2and 3 combination, is rare. However, it was used by a few "big names" in the tuba community such as Bill Rose (I think). Point being, it may not be poor tuning, it may just be a different tuning.

It is possible to add some tubing if the 4th valve slide is on the back of the tuba. Morons like be would be best served to have a professional do it.

As for the Bell, it may be easier to just get a new one piece bell, but the horn will lose some of its uniqueness. Measure the collar and check with Taylor Music or other stores that do a lot of school horn trades or refurbishing... maybe there is something similar out there. Likely, a new one piece bell will be much more available.

Lastly, The valves. There are cheap and easy ways to replace linkages. However, I know of no easy way to replace the clock springs on the cheap. At a minimum you will have to replace the lever/ paddle assembly and but new springs. Probably you will have to replace the bridge and pin also. The good new is that they are available.


Follow Ups: