Expert: Carl M. Jones - 8/3/2009

Question
I am in the process of buying a new tuba after a 30 plus year absence. I used to play an old King three valve front action BBb
three valve tuba. One of the things I liked about it, was that it always seemed to stay in tune with only a minimal movement of the
tuning slide. It was also an easy blowing tuba. I have researched
over twenty tubas and always seem to come back to the King 2341 four valve front action tuba. I also have looked at a new Harvey Phillips BBb tuba. However, Holton does not make this model anymore. I have found two of them in stock at one of the on line instrument companies. I have $6,000.00 to spend on a new tuba. I want a four valve front action piston valved tuba. I do not care for rotary valves. What is your opinion on these two tubas or any other four valve front action piston keyed BBb tuba you think I should look at in my price range. I do not want a used tuba. I will be playing for myself. I plan to test the tubas first before buying. Thanks and have a pleasant day. Ted Cumuze

Answer
Hi, Ted!
It's great to hear that you're coming back to the world of performing. You have a happy decision in front of you: choosing a new horn, and you also have a fair amount of funding to do it with. It seems that rarely in life to we have both!
OK, what I'm about to give you is my personal opinion. I don't think you can go wrong with the King 2341. If I were in the market for a front-action, four piston BBb tuba and had $6K to spend, that would probably be the one I'd choose. Nice, full sound, solid construction, good intonation and made in the USA. The Harvey Phillips model Holton is OK, but never seemed to get much of the market. Other models of horn I would consider that are also in your price range is the Kanstul 902/4B 3/4 BBb and the 900/4B 5/4 BBb. Both are have the specifications you like, and are also in your price range.
You are also very wise to play-test them first. Most reputable retailers will offer a trial period, and the only thing you stand to lose is the cost of shipping and insurance.
Ted, I hope this information is helpful. Good luck and happy hunting!
Regards,
Carl