Posted by js on July 01, 2002 at 02:26:59:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Re: Re: German and American "sound" posted by SkyviewTuba on July 01, 2002 at 02:04:37:
Willson tubas don't seem to have any sort of characteristic sound, and this is what the Willson "opponents" seem to criticise. Some others like this lack-of-characteristic characteristic.
For a large tuba (6/4 in disguise, as the bow would be fatter if the bell was shorter) the thing has very few intonation quirks (good). The low notes are easy, focused, and loud (good) but also can be very bright (good? bad?).
Ergonomically, the thing is OK, but most folks notice that it IS HEAVY (uhh, not go good).
I've only honked on one in two real concerts. Paul K. in Philly could tell you more. If he were reachable and willing to talk, I imagine that he would be candid about the good and bad of the thing.