Posted by Bugalugs on September 03, 2001 at 01:07:26:
Has anyone here in Tubenet Land ever made a $$major$$ tuba purchase without having test-played the instrument???? I suppose I'm focussing on new horns, or those which are in very good condition.
My query can also be interpreted as what people think the various reliable/consistent brands, eras, models, etc., are, and conversely, the unreliable, widely varying brands, models... (whish has been briefly touched on the the "Comparing tubas" thread just below).
Most stores would not have more than one or two horns of a particular (top line/pro/top$$) model... so it's not as if there's the chance to play-test 20 (except possibly at the factory. But even then, there are lots of "made to order" instruments...
I've only even purchased one tuba new and there were two I was able to play of the particular model.
How risky is the "blind date" with the reputable brands/makers?
Any tales to tell??