TubaForum.net

Hey all!

Thinking about getting a travel tuba so I can practice when I travel. Not any space in my home for more than two large horns, and I don’t like traveling with my Bruckner to family outings which is why I find these appealing.

What are y’all’s experience with these instruments? Does this affect the way y’all play your contrabasses when you get back, or do you find it to be an effective tool?

Thanks

I have nothing against the makers, but aren't impressed with the concept nor the resulting instruments (whether made in Germany or China).
They just aren't "tubas", just as "playing the tuba with a practice mute" is nothing like "playing a tuba".

I'd recommend saving the money, spending a portion of it on hotels in safer parts of town (or whatever...??), or paying down a credit card (and not worrying about "the tuba" when en route) - whether on a business trip or a pleasure trip.

fwiw...A euphonium (and some good-playing ones aren't all that expensive) are real musical instruments - for which there are some real uses.

bloke "sincerely, my very best advice"

The ZO may sound fuller but the ergonomics are dreadful.

The Wessex has a surprisingly good low range, but breaks up quickly on the way up.

If the Jazz version of the Wessex is portable enough, I preferred that one.

It is more versatile without going to the mic, I could see it being more likely to be used in a performance.

Neither of these are practical for me on vacation. I’m usually too bust keeping the beer cold to worry about practice!

Id look for one of the 3/4 York Eb’s, they play well and are smaller than you’d think.

I've tried the Wessexes in C and Bb and didn't like them very much. Just kind of annoying to play.

The ZO, on the other hand...I tried the CC one at NAMM 2020 and was blown away. It was honestly one of my favorite tubas that I've played, though perhaps it's because I'm a bass trombonist and the smallness was a good match. I thought it played and sounded awesome, and have wanted one ever since. I think it would record very well. Live use, not so much. But hey...it's a travel tuba!