Posted by Mark Preece on May 30, 2003 at 03:01:03:
I am wondering what the thoughts are re: 5th valves on Bb and Eb tubas. For example: The VMI 3301 has 4 pistons. The 3302 has an added rotory valve (4+1). The VMI 3199 F tuba (PT-10P)has 5 valves (4+1), but also has additional Eb slides.
I guess my questions are:
1) What are the advantages/disadvantages of having a 5th rotor added to a Bb or Eb tuba? 2) How would this set up react to the compensating system?
3) What would the additional Eb slides do to the F tuba playing wise... other than change the pitch... (for those smarties)
I have seen Bb and Eb tubas with 4 valves, and there doesn't seem to be much of a problem, especially for ones equipt with the compensating system. I own a 6/4 VMI CC 5198 "Mel Culbertson", and the 5th valve is of great use. I am just not sure if it is needed in the same way as a CC. Thanks.