Posted by Joe Baker on June 09, 2003 at 16:36:33:
In Reply to: suggestions posted by David on June 09, 2003 at 16:23:03:
If a 3/4 IS enough, IMHO you should try out a Weril (680?) BBb, a Yamaha 621 knock-off. I tried out one of these in Joe Sellsmansberger's shop last fall and thought it played really well, even though I hadn't played much for quite a long time. These can be had new for right around $2000 including a very manageable hard case, and are available in quite a few places around the country (the picture is borrowed from Baltimore Brass).
Lee Stofer, whose opinion I hold in high regard, has also extolled the virtues of the Josef Lidl 3/4 BBb rotary, which is in about the same price range. I haven't had the opportunity to blow one of these (yet!), but on Lee's word I'd make a point to do so if I were in the 3/4 market.
Of course there are many more expensive alternatives from Yamaha, Miraphone and others, and some very good compact 4/4 instruments if you are willing to pay more (in some cases MUCH more) money.
Joe Baker, who really likes playing pocket tubas until he gets into a large group.