Posted by Tabor on January 28, 2003 at 10:37:00:
A few years back I decided to purchase a Mirafone 186 tuba. The mouthpiece which came with the horn was a c-4. Can anyone actually get a substantial sound on a BBb tuba with a mouthpiece this small? The sound was zippy and overly bright. I immediately switched to a Pt-88 and found the results pleasing. The 88 gave the Mirafone a nice full sound...but with the edge I like for lower register playing. For a smaller MP I use a Jacobs Helleburg. The sound is MUCH more compact. The vast difference of tone from MP to MP on this horn is amazing to me. I previously used a R&H heavy wall Helleburg MP on the Mirafone and it gave it a very centered and unique timbre. Does anyone have a favorite mouthpiece for a 186, and why?