Posted by Steve Marcus on September 07, 1999 at 15:09:37:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Re: WTB: Conn 12 J 3 valve Bb tuba posted by Sam on September 07, 1999 at 08:28:11:
The Conn 25J is in excellent playing condition. I have played it in lessons with Rex Martin and Sam Pilafian (both of whom can vouch for its quality), in a Master Class with Arnold Jacobs, and in small and large ensembles.
In addition to my own experiences with the horn listed above, here are some comments from other TubeNet BBS readers and Tubaeuph subscribers about the Conn 25J: (sources identified upon request):
"Yes, those big Conn 2XJ series horns spoke very easily and played well
and were often outstanding instruments."
"Professionals still use the classic American BBbs from York, Conn, King
and Holton when they can find good 4 & 5 valve versions, and these horns
command substantial premiums in the market."
"Conn in its various forms was one of America's premier instrument
makers from the 1880's through at least the late 1960's. Some of them
were excellent tubas...and a really bad one was rare."
"What I recall most was that the big horn took very little effort to
play. In fact, it took far less effort than my baby Olds O-99 .... Other
than the fact that it was *big*, it didn't require the kind of exertions I
thought it would."
"I would look hard at one of the used items
from the heavy duty American instrument makers like C.G Conn..."
"This 6/4 size tuba...is truly a joy to play."
This large bore BBb horn, built in 1965, has 4 short-stroke valves, detachable 24" upright bell, and 3 water keys. Corks have been replaced recently when the horn was acid bathed. I would rather not sell the horn, because it is A LOT of fun to play. But I need the money to help pay for a CC horn that I just purchased.
The asking price, which includes a new custom Altieri Model 01 Pro Tuba gig bag, is $3000. The tuba is in the Chicago area.
Please contact me privately (847-382-1502) with your questions. Thank you!