TubaForum.net

Part of this thread is to satisfy indexing need for SEO.

Another part is to compile a list of copies, old and new, and perform some analysis.

I’m still of the opinion, between the Hirsbrunner, Nirschl, and Yamaha clones that exist, via sheer number alone, that at least one plays better overall than the original.

Will I ever be able to prove this? Highly unlikely.

The Chinese-made versions from Eastman and Wessex also seem to be a good option for those looking for a 6/4 tuba (for whatever fun reason).

I've played them all, though not close enough together to rank them against each other

The zo thunderbird was the one I played last month when I visited mack brass. I can't say 100% that it's the best just because it had been 18 months since I played the others, but it deserves to be right up there in the conversation with the wessex and the Eastman.

We need a 3 way shootout.

Much discussed threads should be rehashed here considering much knowledge has been lost in the great purge. Well done.

Holton 345 BBb - copy of the York but in BBb.

Bore .750" (1-3), .790"-810" (4)

Bell 19" or 20"

Here is one example next to a Conn 21J:

Front





Back



Next to a Bb tuba (not a baritone or tenor tuba, but a 9-foot tuba)

I had a Holton b flat that began life as a 3 valve. Baltimore brass installed a new b&s 4 valve silver plated valve set for me . the horn body was satin silver that had been rubbed almost shiny from age and use. I sold on eBay and shipped to California. Anyone happen to know where it is now. Great sound.

Mithosphere wrote: ↑Mon Aug 24, 2020 8:57 pm Holton 345 BBb - copy of the York but in BBb.

Also available in very limited numbers in CC. Jacobs had one and it eventually came down to a former poster on TubeNet and was beautifully restored by Dan Oberloh.

The YorkBrunner that I played was an incredibly disappointing instrument from every possible aspect. I couldnt compare it to the Nirschl or the Wessex, (both very decent clones) at all. It felt like an unplayable instrument. And I played a Hirbrunner for several years.

tubanews wrote: ↑Wed Aug 26, 2020 3:57 pm The YorkBrunner that I played was an incredibly disappointing instrument from every possible aspect. I couldnt compare it to the Nirschl or the Wessex, (both very decent clones) at all. It felt like an unplayable instrument. And I played a Hirbrunner for several years.

I never played a Yorkbrunner, but I’ve heard tales of them being vastly different copy to copy.