Posted by LV on February 07, 2004 at 17:13:44:
I played 4 (yes, 4!) new 184 5 valve 3/4 CCs today and a 1291 BBb at The Brasswind with Roger today. Get 'em while they're HOT (no mustard required).
First the 184s: This horn is a riot to play. Great pitch, really well made, it's the little tuba "that could". Fun all around horn for smaller groups like dixie, quintet, solo, and maybe section playing with some others playing, say, in a concert band. Low register is really easy (think of the sound of canvas loudly ripping, as Roger said, when you really lean into it).
The 1291 BBbs: Damn. Tony Clements said it best with something like "If I was going to buy a BBb, this would be it!" This horn is tremendous. Soft, loud, high, low. If you are a BBb player, it is a must try. I haven't been that impressed with a horn since my PT6. BUT...
If the new 1291 CC is ANYTHING like the 1291 BBb, it will surely be the horn to beat (catch it if you can...).
FWIW,
LV