Posted by Rick Denney on February 03, 2004 at 21:07:13:
In Reply to: Re: Jupiter 582 posted by big Jon on February 03, 2004 at 20:24:35:
That word "best" assumes you have a means to measure relative quality.
I'd say that the Jupiter is the best 4/4 front-action piston tuba that you can buy new for under $3000 (it's also the only one). At the same price point (or very nearly), I'd take the VMI 103 or one of its stencils in a heartbeat if I was willing to consider rotary tubas. If a smaller instrument was acceptable, the Weril is easily as good for what it is as the Jupiter. If both size and valve type are up for grabs, the Lidl is easily as competent as the Jupiter, and if anything a bit cheaper. The Jupiter is a decent instrument and a good value, but "best" is a big word.
Rick "who agrees that for at least $500 more, the King is a better instrument" Denney