Posted by Rob Perelli-Minetti on November 29, 1999 at 12:13:43:
In Reply to: C.G.Conn 38K Sousaphone posted by Steve N. on November 26, 1999 at 13:52:12:
The 38K was Conn's top of the line 'standard' sousaphone before the introduction of the short action valve 20K in the 30's. It was also available as a 4 valve model, 40K. Here is the (mostly puffery, but interesting) description of it from a circa 1930 Conn brochure:
"BBb Sousaphone Grand -- 38K"
"3 Valves; Adjustable, Detachable Bell"
"Conn sousaphones are the direct descendants of the original sousaphone. Conn created this popular instrument especially for Sousa's Band twenty-five years ago and no other sousaphone on the market has the rich backrground possessed by the Conn sousaphone. This accounts, in a great measure, for the exceptioanlly fine intonation, the smooth flexible scale, the ease of blowing and the artistic finish and outward appearance, which qualities have won the foremost position for Conn Sousaphones."
"When this fine design, originated twenty-five years ago and constantly improved in the Conn research laboratories, is executed by the famous Hydraulic Expansion Process, there is nothing more to be desired. This process was developed and perfected by Conn and is exclusive on Conn instruments. It alone insures accuracy of acoustical dimensions and a glassy-smooth inside surface for carry the delicate tone waves."
"This marvelous instrument is used in a majority of the finest bands and orchestras in the world and is highly praised by many of the world's greates sousaphone artists. Among the famous organizations using this excellent base are Sousa's Band, the Royal Band of King Alphonso XIII of Spain, the famous Mexico City Police Band, the Detroit Elk's Band, national champions in 1926, 1927 and 1928; the renowned University of Illinois Band; the Joliet, Illinois, High School Band, national champions for three consecutive years, 12926, 1927 and 1928; and the Senn High School Band, Chicago, national champions in 1929 and 1930."
"The Conn Sousaphone Grand bass is a champion whose big, flashing, 26-inch bell bowers above the heads of some of the finest bass players in the world and whose majestic, deep intone d voice has stirred thousands. There is no finer."
"$360. Satin silver, gold burnished inside bell, 38-K-2"
"Other finishes: Polished brass, 38-K-4, $300; satin silver, poished insdie bell, 38-K-3, $330; satin gold, points burnished, 38-K-0, $480; burnihsed gold, 38-K-00, $565."
"With 4 Valves - 40K"
"Identical in all respects with 38-K except it is equiped with four Conn light action valves instead of three. Prices: Polished brass, 40-K-4, $350; satin silver, plished inside bell, 40-K-3, $380; satin silver, gold burnished inside bell, 40-K-2, $400; satin gold, points burnished, 40-K-0, $530; burnished gold, 40-K-00, $615"