Posted by Paul Scott on October 09, 2003 at 11:54:47:
In Reply to: Big BBb tubas? posted by Doug Fowler on October 07, 2003 at 18:52:31:
Just had to add my two cents about Martin tubas. These are great horns whether they are 3 or 4 valve models. The hard part is finding an upright bell for them-they're out there but they're rare. Bore is about .730 and the bell throat is bigger than the Conn. I tend to think that this huge taper is one of the reasons for their great sound. Pre WWII Martins are the best, post war models just don't play as well although they're still darn good. Pitch is outstanding and the horns are very consistent. Their is a saxophone website that has the best serial # list for Martins-other websites are very incorrect with Martin serial #s. I have a 30" bell and it is possible to balance the entire horn on it! Standard recording bell is 24" I believe.