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If you could only have one tuba, what would you choose? Why? Doesn't have to be one you currently own.

I’m nearly certain that I would hang on to my F tuba, because - for several years in the 1980s - it was the only instrument I owned, and I got by just fine. Further, there just isn’t another F tuba in existence that plays as well as this one… Sorry, but it’s just not debatable.

I would be very sorry to see - in particular- two (three...?? four...??) others go, and my playing would not be what it is, where those sold.

If I suddenly found out that I was required to sell one of my instruments, I would quickly buy a 6/4 (hopefully, for below market), so that it could be that one that would be sold.

As things are, I just don’t know of any model of tuba that I wish I had instead of one of those that is here. There may not be that many players in this situation, so I guess I’m really quite lucky.

For those who know about my self-imposed rules (having to do with which tubas are allowed to stay here), I have suspended those rules during the panic-demic, but also have suspended buying anything for my own use - other than the bought- for-very-little Holton (transformation being documented in the Franken-forum)...and – who knows? – that one also might also be offered out.

CSO York #2

Not because I want it... I actually don't want it at all. But, if I had it, I could sell it, and get other stuff instead.

Real answer -- if I have the chance to buy back my old Miraphone 188, I would do it in a second. That was nearly 10 years ago, so it's made a lasting impression on me like nothing else has.

I'd like to say my Alex 163 is the answer to this question. It an incredible tuba, but it and I are still very new to each other. And @#$&!, do I miss having a fifth valve! The Miraphone had the better playability and intonation. The Alex the better sound and brings more thunder with it.

If my old Miraphone came back around some day (and I'm not at all counting on that for half a second), I'd like to think the 188 and 163 could live in harmony together.

Wait... Is my answer to this very clear and direct question to have two very similar tubas? Crap...

I’d also say a tuba I sold. The frankentuba similar to a 2341 played beautifully in tune with itself, had a gorgeous tone, and just resonated with me and the way I like to play. Next closest would be the Yamaha E-flat I played my last year in college.

In my current job(101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Band), and various community ensembles(wind band, dixieland band, large brass ensemble, pops/jazz/March brass Quintet) that I perform with, I would favor my Conn 24/25J. With the Kanstul upright bell as well as the original recording bell, I can get most jobs/concerts done without too much work.

If I had a lot of money, and I could only have one tuba, with my current performance requirements/opportunities, I would purchase a Miraphone 98 "Siegfried". Those tubas are absolutely amazing! (Even better than the MW 195P), as it doesn't require enormous hand strength, fairly nimble, excellent intonation, etc.

If I were a freelancer, performing primarily in small ensembles, solos, acrobatic BQ music, with occasional large ensemble work (orchestra, wind band), I would choose the Besson 980/982.

MW 2040/5 without hesitation. I love to play the pt6 in orchestra though and would surely miss it there, but the MW is not so bad for that either and great for everything else I do.

Polls without trolls are droll.

A large F or Eb horn.

You'd end up compromising a whole lot less on a whole lot fewer pieces/playing situations.

My Alexander 163 CC. I have used it professionally in many types of jobs including orchestra, band, quintet, jazz, recording sessions, solos, etc. For me it is the all purpose tuba. I now use it in a community band (with two other Alexander tubas).

Best,
Mark

Add on after my original reply:
Another thing that I like about my Alex is being able to blend with different sections (including low woodwinds, low strings, horns, etc.).

My Alex is the only tuba that I have had that I can take a break from playing and still sound like a musician. Clearly not as good as when I am in shape to play but it still works.

The Alex 164 BBb I tested at Custom Music in 1990. But since that's not an option, it might be really hard to choose.

Possibilities:
MW 2250 (play most anything and do it easily)
Willson rotary F (it can do it all)
My B&S Symphonie (I've done the F-tuba-as-my-only-instrument, and the Symphonie would work; it also has a terrific sound)
Kanstul 90 (it was a great tuba; very special sound)
My blokespecial 186 CC (so easy to play; classic Miraphone sound and intonation)
Eastman 632 CC (easy to play; easy intonation)
Rudy 3/4 CC (can sound larger than life; the sound is addicting)
184 CC (plug & play, no worries)
My Hagen 496 (it's a really solid player and everything about it is great - sound, response, valves; I think I'd have a hard time parting with this one)
MW 2155 (these are special IMHO, and the big, dark sound and intonation are superb)

I haven't tried a Kodiak F, 4460 F, or 2011RA BBb, but methinks they could be contenders, especially the 2011RA.

As much as I love my 1924 Conn 38K sousaphone, I'd choose my Wessex BBb helicon.
It's more comfortable and very easy to play.
Also, I can comfortably play it while sitting. Sousaphones, not so much.

If we're counting tubas and marching instruments separately, then I'd also keep my King 2341.

But for me, sitting gigs are in the minority.

Mark E. Chachich wrote: ↑Thu Jan 14, 2021 10:59 am My Alexander 163 CC. I have used it professionally in many types of jobs including orchestra, band, quintet, jazz, recording sessions, solos, etc. For me it is the all purpose tuba. I now use it in a community band (with two other Alexander tubas).

Best,
Mark

Mark is one with his tuba. We should all be so lucky to find our soulmate instrument like he has!

As per the actual poll...

I am always glad to get the carrot rather than the stick.

Not yet wise enough to comment on 1 tuba, but i'd make sure i could take it for a walk.

But if i may redirect...

If you were only allowed to play piece of music?

Kirley wrote: ↑Thu Jan 14, 2021 12:18 pm As much as I love my 1924 Conn 38K sousaphone, I'd choose my Wessex BBb helicon.
It's more comfortable and very easy to play.
Also, I can comfortably play it while sitting. Sousaphones, not so much.

If we're counting tubas and marching instruments separately, then I'd also keep my King 2341.

But for me, sitting gigs are in the minority.

I'm really liking the Eb Wessex helicon. I still haven't had a chance to try a BBb, but the positive comments I've heard about them are encouraging. If I needed a wearable tuba, I'd definitely go with a helicon instead of a sousaphone.

If comfort is the thing with the helicon, make sure it's one with mouthpipe adjustment bits.

On the other hand, if it hits you in the mouth like it's supposed to, an oval shape (e.g., Cerveny F) is very nice - hangs in position, unlike the circular version.

But if I could have only one, a helicon would be about my last choice. I guess if it had a removable bell, maybe, but I haven't seen many like that.

I would take the time to regain BBb proficiency and own a Miraphone 497, GR51, Eastman 562 or Lidl 715. Whichever came out on top after playtesting.

I'd love to see a video comparing these models. There is a video in Japanese comparing the Eastman, Lidl and a GR-55. But, it's in Japanese so I have no idea what they are saying. They seem most excited about the Eastman... but that's a total guess on my part. However you slice it, I love this design.

cktuba wrote: ↑Thu Jan 14, 2021 3:42 pm I would take the time to regain BBb proficiency and own a Miraphone 497, GR51, Eastman 562 or Lidl 715. Whichever came out on top after playtesting.

I'd love to see a video comparing these models. There is a video in Japanese comparing the Eastman, Lidl and a GR-55. But, it's in Japanese so I have no idea what they are saying. They seem most excited about the Eastman... but that's a total guess on my part. However you slice it, I love this design.

The 496 is good enough for me.

I have not tried (nor seen) the Lidl.

I'd be most excited about the Eastman too. It's 90% as good for 50% less. (US)

cktuba wrote: ↑Thu Jan 14, 2021 3:42 pm I would take the time to regain BBb proficiency and own a Miraphone 497, GR51, Eastman 562 or Lidl 715. Whichever came out on top after playtesting.

There is a 497 within knocking distance I can test (not for sale), but when Coronamadness started, trying it was less of an option. It's probably a good thing - I'm afraid of liking it to the point that I sell my 496 and lighten my wallet in the acquisition of one. But that day of testing (reckoning?) will come eventually.

cktuba wrote: ↑Thu Jan 14, 2021 3:42 pm I would take the time to regain BBb proficiency and own a Miraphone 497, GR51, Eastman 562 or Lidl 715. Whichever came out on top after playtesting.

I'd love to see a video comparing these models. There is a video in Japanese comparing the Eastman, Lidl and a GR-55. But, it's in Japanese so I have no idea what they are saying. They seem most excited about the Eastman... but that's a total guess on my part. However you slice it, I love this design.

It's a great design, but I wish it existed more readily in CC.

I very nearly bought a GR-51 a number of years ago. Settled on the GR-55 instead. And then chickened out from BBb altogether before I bought anything.

I love the Fafner sound. I'm not sure which large BBb would do it for me, but there are numerous candidates. Also.just learned yesterday that a tuba friend (not bloke) has obtained a Miraphone 190 BBb, and couldn't be happier with the gigantic sound.

Well, I've gotten by with just one tuba since 1990, tho' there have been times when I've desired something different for a specific purpose. The 345 still does it for what I do, being primarily a concert band guy who fills in for a couple of local orchestras at times; however, at age 62 I'm looking ahead to the next 20-30 years of playing. In that regard, I believe a medium to large bore, 4/4 sized, relatively compact (well, compact-er than the 345) 4 or 5 valve BBb will do it for me. I'm thinking a 783 Arion (or Packer 379B) or the King 2341 (or Eastman version). The Cerveny gets points for being easiest to drain water during concerts and for the red brass, which I think just looks classy, especially when coupled with the nickel silver bell ring. Anyhow, for concert bands, church bands and offertory solos, stand-up Dixie, and just rehearsal fun, I think I'll be satisfied with either one. Will be a good retirement gift to myself when that rolls around.
Tim