Posted by Lee Stofer on August 11, 2001 at 09:49:58:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Re: Re: Professional BBb Tuba Census-suggestions posted by Charlie Krause on August 11, 2001 at 00:03:53:
Charlie,
I agree with you that these are well-made instruments that very well could be played by professionals. However, my personal taste and needs are such, that if I were looking for a new BBb tuba to play professionally, my top choices would be;
1) Rudolf Meinl "Bayreuth model" 5/4 BBb - has 3 interchangeable leadpipes, new fat, comfortable thumb ring - really fast valves - really great response and intonation.
2) Rudolf Meinl 5-valve 4/4 BBb - facility of a CC horn, darkness of a BBb - exquisite.
3) Rudolf Meinl standard 4/4 BBb - great horn.
4) Alexander 4/4 BBb - unmistakable sound and feel.
5) Hirsbrunner 5/4 BBb
6) Hirsbrunner 4/4 BBb
7) King traditional model 4/4 4-valve BBb, upright bell. I've played one professionally, and extensive work with the tuner showed I could consistently play it better in tune than a Mirafone 186.
8) Meinl Weston model 25 - a real bargain that plays really well.
There are a number of horns that can be played professionally, but these would be my top choices to be able to play my best, for years to come.
-Lee Stofer