Posted by Alan Newman on December 10, 1998 at 14:09:26:
Season's Greetings!
I started tuba shopping a couple of weeks ago and have heard lots about the St. Pete and the VMI 2103. I need some more advise about FINDING the right horn.
Question 1 : Is it worth it to drop another $1,000 for a Miraphone/Meinl Weston etc over the VMI or St.Pete?
Question 2 : Where is it possible to comparison shop in the southeast? ((AT)TE, I test drove the St.Pete and liked it, but from what I've read makes me want to keep looking.)
Yesterday, I spoke with Pat at the Brasswind. I asked if anyone close had purchased a VMI that I could call or visit to "see for myself." No luck. (this was a little hard to believe, but he did invite me to visit - but Chicago area is a long haul from Atlanta.)
He offered to send the tuba to me to try out for a nominal?!? shipping fee ;(
I decided against it for $$ reasons. (there also seens like there should be a better way, especially if I didn't like the VMI).
All help is appreciated.
Quickley about myself: amateur, love to play, looking for BBb, 4R, 4/4, and I want to do this without feeling like I threw money away (been there, done that).
Cautious