Re: BBb tuba vs CC tuba


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Posted by Lew on July 23, 2002 at 13:13:21:

In Reply to: BBb tuba vs CC tuba posted by Wes on July 23, 2002 at 11:04:12:

Equivalently sized tubas in BBb or CC can produce the same "size" sound. I have heard some people claim that a CC tuba produces better clarity vs. a BBb. I don't find this to be true. Professional CC tubas tend to have a 5th valve to allow them to reach the low end more easily and with good intonation. The 5th valve is less important on a BBb tuba, although it can still help with the extreme low end.

For me, the reason to use a CC tuba is to play orchestral music. A CC tuba will make the fingering slightly easier for the keys you are likely to encounter. I prefer a BBb tuba for band music and the "flat" keys that are prevalent. If you are comfortable with playing a BBb and you are playing primarily band music there is absolutely no reason to switch. The other benefit of sticking with a BBb is that prices are generally lower, for equivalent horns.


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