Re: Re: Tuba manufacturers


[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ TubeNet BBS ] [ FAQ ]

Posted by Chuck(G) on December 12, 2000 at 15:29:12:

In Reply to: Re: Tuba manufacturers posted by Joe Baker on December 12, 2000 at 12:24:21:

Consider that tuba construction requires some pretty specialized talent and equipment. Mandrels for bells are huge hunks of steel, spun on gigantic lathes, requiring the right touch from an experienced worker. Valves are essentially a precision machining operation, with some hand assembly and finishing. Bows are hydraulically formed.

This doesn't mean that all bells produced by Meinl Weston for other manufacturers are the same as those found on MW horns. Just that one outfit has the necessary equipment and talent and is willing to contract work.

I've heard that during the American tuba's heyday that bells for several manufacturers were spun by an outfit called True Tone just outside of Chicago. Don't know if it's true, but it seems plausible.


Follow Ups: