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Hey everyone, I’ve recently been invited to play in a friend’s orchestra, and I’m really excited to get back into playing the tuba after being away from it for a while.

I’m currently looking for a horn but don’t have a super steep budget—ideally something under $2,000. I’m totally open to used instruments and not too picky about appearance, just want something solid that’ll hold up in an ensemble setting.

Any recommendations on brands/models to look out for, or places (online or in-person) that might have good deals, financing, or rent-to-own options would be a huge help. Thanks so much—I appreciate any advice you’re willing to share!

Whereabouts are you located?

One thing you can do yourself is peruse ebay and reverb for (I assume) BBb tuba --- and ask here about candidates. Like, I saw an Olds BBb on the bay for $850. You didn't say top action, front action, piston or rotary -- and the BBb is an assumption. Arpthark knows where everything is, too.

-- A decent condition King 2341 BBb -- tall older model, with detachable bell.

-- Old decent condition B&S Sonora BBb


Both are good BBb tubas that play and sound very good, well made, and have 4 valves and would do great for a lot of bread-and-butter orchestra work. Especially utilizing various mouthpieces

In addition to eBay and Reverb check out Facebook Marketplace and the FB Tuba/Euph groups. Even craigslist can be decent if you're near a good-sized city. SearchTempest helps with searching craigslist.

If you're near Baltimore or NJ then Baltimore Brass and Dillon Music are also worth the trip.

Just beware with Facbook Marketplace --- quite a few scammers. Don't buy unseen from there.