Posted by Ken on February 15, 2004 at 00:07:46:
I'm trying to decide on a horn to buy but, as a 37 year old retread tuba player, on a cops salary, I can't just run out and pick up a Miraphone. This being the case I've been trying to find something I can pick up fairly cheap that will sound decent and won't give me repair problems. (I'm currently playing a beat-up old King 3v front action with a recording bell and worn out valves)
Being in N. Cent. Florida, I'm also not where I can stop by Balt Brass or WWBW. That leaves me with the internet.
I'm certainly not a pro so I can't justify (to my wife) making a huge investment on what amounts to a hobby. Bottom line is - I want something that sounds and looks decent, is fairly versital and that won't break on me the first time I play the thing (as and inexpensive as I can find it!).
So far I've looked at Jupiters, Cerveny's, F. Schmidts, VMIs, Alloras and Amatis. ANY info on any of these brands would be helpful.
My playing will consist of quintets and community band.
Thanks in advance !