Posted by Hal Issen on December 22, 2002 at 08:36:25:
In Reply to: Tuba Returnee seeks Eb advice posted by Don Shirer on December 22, 2002 at 00:09:46:
Don,
Welcome back. I laid off for tuba playing for 10 years after High School; I've been back playing again for 15. I am also an Eb man. I agree with the advice already given; you can get by very well with a 3 valve Eb; they are inexpensive ($500-600) and available. A 4th valve is nice, but be prepared to pay $1000 more. It is a budget decision.
My best advice is to buy from a reputable dealer. The links in the 'shops 'section are the best place to look; Dillion's has a nice crop of Ebs right now including a Conn Giant Wonder that is pretty interesting and a decent price. Also you may want to contact Lee Stofer, a repairman and dealer who may may a horn in stock. His email should be somewhere among the postings. I strongly recommend avoiding eBay unless you know who you are buying from someone with a good reputation.
Good luck
Hal