$1495 + $295 ground shipping to CONUS only.
Pics here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/3ZyU9Fze3ARrcz629
No PMs please: email bobstubahaus@gmail.com
Reynolds Contempora BBb recording tuba/forward bell, 3 valves with fully functioning first valve slide tuning mechanism. Manufactured appx. 1959. S/N 55###, made during the Roth-Reynolds era in Cleveland, OH. (I've had a couple of Abilene horns, and frankly they are inferior to the Cleveland horns. The sound and the valves in particular are better on the Cleveland horns. YMMV)
I believe this tuba suffered some pretty nasty damage to the bell (now repaired) and most likely spent many years sitting on a repair shelf or passed over in the tuba closet because of its appearance. This is my theory anyway - just because the valves have so much plating for a 60-plus year old horn. Due to the overall condition of the horn I do not believe the valves have been replated , but I could be wrong.
Shortly after purchasing this horn last year, I stripped off all the repair damaged lacquer from the bell. The last photo in the linked album shows before and after. The raw brass is settling in nicely to match the rest of the horn. I have applied some "Wenol" protective polish to the bell interior.
Sound:
- This is a large 5/4-size recording bass. The overall sound and response is very similar to the old model King 1241/2341, but a bigger sound. If the King is a 4/4, this is a 5/4.
- The scale is as good or better as any American-made recording tuba, IMO.
- With an appropriately large funnel-type mouthpiece plugged in, this thing is a weapon.
Mechanical Condition:
- Valves: As you can see from the pictures the valves still have plenty of plating on them. The action is smooth. The valves have very good compression. My repair tech put on new valve guides and felts.
- Slides: The slides all move, but they are stiff. All could use some work, but they are adequate as is. #1 upper slide operates well enough for on-the fly fine tuning, but could certainly be made better to take more advantage of the tuning trigger. #3 upper slide does not operate well enough for on-the-fly fine tuning.
Cosmetic Condition:
- There is evidence of prior repairs, lacquer wear, dents, scratches and dings. The most notable dents are pictured.
- The lacquer finish is worn and shows areas of discoloration.
-- I like the finish on this horn. The aging bronze-colored lacquer and raw brass all contribute to a nice vintage patina. The lacquer continues to degrade: I see little glittery pieces come off as I handle it, fine by me.
No case or mouthpiece is included, but if you need a mouthpiece I have several available for purchase.
Of the 5 examples of this model horn I have owned, this is the one I like best. The original configuration (forward bell, three valves) sounds and responds best for me. Only selling because I have another of this model, and this one is more marketable.
Specs per https://contemporacorner.com/low-brass/bass-tuba/:
Reynolds BB♭ Contempora Tuba (Recording Bass)
Bore: .687"
Bell: 23" adjustable, detachable front-facing bell
Weight: 28½ lbs
Height: 50½"
Local pickup in Tucson, AZ 85745 or can be ground shipped for $295 to CONUS/Lower 48 US states only - no other countries or other US states/territories, etc.
Thanks for looking.
