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Greetings everyone. This is my first official post aside from introducing myself in another thread.

I apologize ahead of time if this information is somewhere else on the forum. Please direct me to those threads if applicable. Otherwise, here is my question:

I am currently saving up to buy my own tuba, preferrably used. I've narrowed it down to either a KIng 2341W or an Eastman EBB534. These tubas both meet my personal budget and playing preferences as far as tone quality and style of tuba (American). My preference is specifically for a broad and fat sound that is not too bright and punchy. However, I still want agility to play when passages are faster, particularly in the upper range (think Circus Bee March). In your opinion, which of these two tubas has the deeper broader sound quality in the lower register? I currently play on a borrowed Holton TU331 (4 front piston valves). I'm using my own Laskey 28H which I absolutely love. If I had either of these two tubas, I'd probably also invest in a Laskey 30H as I'm told this mouthpiece would maximize the lower register on either tuba. I'd be interested to get your feedback.

Thank you kindly!

I cant help you as far as those specific tuba models. But I can pass on the advice that my teacher gave me when I was looking to upgrade in college. Try as many tubas as you can. You might come across one that really surprises you. I did this with my son when we were looking for a french horn and the one he got, he played it for a couple minutes and went, Wow! It's really important to try them.

Grumpikins wrote: Fri May 22, 2026 3:49 pm I cant help you as far as those specific tuba models. But I can pass on the advice that my teacher gave me when I was looking to upgrade in college. Try as many tubas as you can. You might come across one that really surprises you. I did this with my son when we were looking for a french horn and the one he got, he played it for a couple minutes and went, Wow! It's really important to try them.

Thanks for your input and advice. Yes, I had someone else recommend the same thing. The problem right now is that I don't have the funds, so I'm still in the research phase. I don't know that it's practical to go and try tubas and torture myself since I don't have the money. I'd find one I love and then have to put it down. That would be really frustrating.

Oh that's the best time... you are not tempted by an immediate purchase. Just tell them you are still in the find out phase and you don't know what you are looking for yet. They will completely understand. Just don't make is seem like you are ready to pull out a credit card and no one will bet an eye at you trying things out.

Also note, some places require you to make an appointment to try out horns. Just to be sure they have appropriate staffing to assist you and other customers.