Posted by Rob P-M on June 18, 2002 at 07:28:19:
In Reply to: Re: Re: sousaphone for concert band posted by Lew on June 18, 2002 at 07:05:21:
I think the length works OK on the Conn 20K using the 2XJ upright bell, based on the fact that Conn catalogs in the 1950's (e.g. 1957) list as available a 21K Sousaphone with upright bell. As a joke in college, I once put a 25J upright bell on a Conn 20K for a pep rally. It seemed well enough in tune, but I admit to sufficient beer before and during the gig that I really have no clue how it really sounded.
Based on the difference in length of the King sousaphone bell and the King recording bell, I'm not sure it would work the same way, but the collar will surely fit. The difference in the open bugle might be 2-4 inches between the upright bell and the sousaphone bell. Could be it could be compensated for with tuning slide or bits. Anybody ever do this successfully?