Posted by Lee Stofer on June 11, 2002 at 14:16:39:
In Reply to: Built like a tank posted by Tim C on June 09, 2002 at 14:30:34:
Without a doubt, the most bullet-proof tubas made were the Conn 2XJ's, and their 3XJ predecessors. Tomorrow night, I'll play yet another concert on a 34J from 1935 that has never been completely overhauled, and has not had a case in the 6 years I've owned it. It is just an unbelievable workhorse that just keeps on tickin'
Some other sturdy horns I've encountered have been made by Besson, Willson, King and Martin. Yorks were reasonably sturdy, too, as well as some Yamahas. Most of the European horns are quite fragile, even if well-made. It's all in what you're looking for.
Lee Stofer