Posted by Gus Pratt on March 04, 2003 at 05:01:12:
I'm looking to purchase a large 3 valve Eb tuba, top action in the $500 range. Something with a 18-19" bell like the monster Conns, Yorks, Bueschers, Holton or Martins. This tuba will be used for a conversion to left handed for a person who has had spinal damage and can no longer use their right hand. Silver is preferred as the instrument will need to be completely disassembled and reassemmbled. Top action is necessary to be able to reverse the first and third valve tubes. My preference is an old Conn with the tuning slide in the leadpipe so long as the knuckles on the valve casing are symmetrical. Valves need to be decent, minor denting is not a major concern as complete disassembling will occur and some dents will be able to be removed at that time if so desired. Large dents would be a problem as I don't have the ability to remove such dents.