Posted by Miraphone Owner on January 25, 2004 at 22:39:33:
In Reply to: best Miraphone posted by Scott on January 25, 2004 at 20:55:26:
If you have a few months, you should try a 188 and the new 1295. I have a 186, which I am quite fond of, but I have heard great things abou the 1295. I think if I had it to do over, I might have gotten a 188, but my budget would not allow it at the time. Go to Brasswind in South Bend, Indiana if you want to try Miraphones. Like one of the followups says, this is a big investment. You should invest some time in money in playing some instruments before you buy. Don't overlook the Meinl Westons and other instruments. Ignore the label and go for something you like, because you will be stuck with it. Also, pay attention to the difference between rotary valves and piston valves. I have always had rotary valve tubas, but I believe that pistons are faster and cleaner. On the other hand, rotary valves are easier to care for and less tempermental. That said, my next tuba will have pistons.