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Since my playing opportunities have recently shifted from mostly CC to mostly BBb, I am parting with one of the CCs that just hasn't been in the limited current rotation.

This 2165 was modified by Joe Sellsmanberger, to replace the stock leadpipe with the 45SLP leadpipe (like the 2265); and also to include a unique very short tuning valve in the open horn, taking the place of a slide pull. The pitch on the horn is very good, but a couple of notes tend to ride high (for me, mostly if I was playing loud on an F, for example). The L thumb-operated valve, allows kicking in the tuning loop to address that. Even if one ignores the tuning valve, I believe the horn to play very well. YMMV, of course.

The tuba includes the tone ring, though it is secured in place with silicon adhesive, so is readily removable if desired. I found the horn to have exceptional projection, which was its niche for me, and I never experimented with removing the ring.

Apart from the unlacquered areas with the new leadpipe, and the tuning valve, and a couple of areas with burned lacquer from the mods, the lacquer is in very good condition. there are (to me) very minor nicks where the left hand would hold; and rubbing off of lacquer on that same side protective rib.

This horn was on loan to a member of the forum for a while, and I will leave it to him if he wishes to offer any thoughts.

The horn is located in Columbus OH. I am not willing to ship the horn, but will drive three hours to meet someone halfway.

The price includes a wheeled hard case.

More photos are available to seriously interested buyers, on request.

Mike L 3985 at m a c (dot) com

I liked it and mostly tuned it using the 1st slide and some lipping. I used the tuning valve only on (IIRC) second space C. It projects very well and has a lot more clarity than any other 2165 I have played, being very close to the 2265 I owned years ago.

Honestly, this is a very good price. I would have put it up for sale for more like $12,000, knowing how well it works in a large hall and large ensemble. It has a commanding tone, to be sure. I liked it. I do not generally like these horns, but this is a good one, especially for this price.

Someone will be very happy with this tuba…

Here it is (on the right) with my Holton 345. Both are outstanding tubas for this size category, and pretty dang good for *any* tuba.



Mike is the very definition of a "great guy" and is a straight shooter. If you chat with him on the phone at length about this tuba, you will just about be able to buy it sight unseen, as his knowledge of tubas (from his massive collection of instruments and his skill as a player) allows him to give exceptionally accurate information about how the instrument plays (and what to expect from it), to include interesting advice regarding mouthpiece choices and so forth.

My one caveat is that if you use a mute in it, the thing will have to be corked specifically to fit around the tone ring. This is not difficult, but using that mute in other tubas might be an issue, once it fits this tuba. Very minor issue, but it bears mentioning. I had to play it muted right after I got it from Mike, and had to scramble to make the mute fit this bell. (The profile of the bell is identical to my Holton's, but the tone ring is a large protrusion that has to be accounted for in this situation.)

This tuba is a winner, especially at this price. Buy it. Go meet Mike. He is truly a great guy.

If you've been following my posts and want pretty much what I will have when it's done, buy this for WAY less than what you'd have in it doing it the hard way like me!

This seems like a "no nonsense, buy me NOW" price.

Best of luck with this sale. Truly a one of a kind 2165 you've got there. Great looking instrument.

Many thanks to Wade and Sousawag for the kind words and comments on the tuba.

Hey Mike, I just sent you an email earlier this morning. I’d love to chat more about the horn and I’d be willing to drive all the way to you. I’m a serious buyer!

Best,
Shahab

I am interested, will send an email soon.

Good morning!
Question on the 5th valve? Is it long 2+3?

The 5th valve is a flat whole step.