Posted by Jay Bertolet on May 28, 2000 at 08:33:06:
In Reply to: Willson Eb vs other Eb posted by Kris Haag on May 28, 2000 at 04:37:53:
I own a Willson Eb and it is a rather large Eb, as they go. It is really great for the orchestral playing I do, especially in the pit during operas. I have also used mine as a solo tuba and it really works great. My conception of a solo tuba sound is not so different from my orchestral sound so if you're looking for a much lighter solo sound, like many players get on smallish F tubas, then the Willson might not be such a good choice for you as a solo tuba. I owned a Boosey Sovereign Eb before getting my Willson and it was a fine tuba as well but it was a compensating tuba (which I learned not to like much) and it only had 4 valves (I really prefer 5).
Bottom line is that it all depends on what you like and what tuba gives you the freedom to express yourself the way you want to. Try as many out as you can and go from there. Good luck!