Posted by Klaus on March 25, 2002 at 10:19:40:
In Reply to: New Besson BE980 Eb Tuba posted by Tom Fox on March 25, 2002 at 09:49:46:
Below a direct quote from the Boosey & Hawkes site.
The comparability to the 981 seems to be mostly in the visual and ergonomical areas. Wheras the playing characteristics of the 980 are closer to the 983. I own a 981 and have first hand knowledge of a 5 valve B&S Symfonie in F. They are VERY different instruments.
Klaus
"The Besson BE980 EEb Tuba is an exceptional professional instrument. It has the same layout as the 981/ 982 tuba but with a 17" bell. The playing characteristics are more in line with the front valved 983 tuba. The sound is very well centred and focused, clear and direct. This tuba is a very good choice for the soloist who prefers the brass band style valve layout."