Posted by Shimshon on December 22, 1999 at 01:40:36:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Cerveny 693 vs ST.Petersburg.HELP!!!!!!! posted by Gary S on December 22, 1999 at 00:49:09:
I'm playing an old St. Pete 3 valve BBb fromthe 70's(Leningrad?). It had been
poorly cared for before I got it, but after a thorough cleaning, and oiling,
it's still a good tuba(after~25 years). If it had been treated better, it'd
probably be a lot better. I enjoy playing it and its tone is to my liking.
Nickel plating is still 99% intact. Newer, improved, 4 valve horns should
definitely be worth considering. It's a good tuba with a big sound. As someone
in Germany said to me, "...almost a Kaiser".
The 693 is a Kaiser, weighs 20% more, and has nickel-silver parts in all the right places. I'd fare to say that the Cerveny is worth the difference in price.
You've just got to decide if it's worth it to you. Is this a one-time, long-term investment? Do you have the money? Where are you going with your playing?
Personally, i think that both the St. Pete, and the Cerveny are great buys.
Up to you.