Chris, you said you were looking for a Bb tuba to compliment your C tuba. I never appreciated that there might be more difference than the key. Can you do a video explaining the pros and cons of each?
Thanks for these reviews Chris! They're great! I tried this tuba in the UK a few months ago and was very impressed with it. It's good to see a top level pro giving honest feed back, especially on the 'budget' brands. I'm also glad someone shares my view about 5th valves on BBflat, I wouldn't want to be without one
Thanks for another great video! I was highly anticipating the reviews on these three tubas, particularly the grand BBb. After playing the instrument, and hearing others play it, there is something that simply cannot be denied about the breadth of sound and presence with the grand BBb. I fell in love with this instrument. Chuck and I talked about possibilities for this instrument, as well as others, as it relates to hand hammered sheet brass. He stated that they did not have any definite plans one way or the other at this time, but he was quick to point out that they really want to make tubas that players really want or need, so nothing is automatically off the table. I am sure you already know, but for other viewers… Jonathan has revealed on Tubenet that a hand hammered sheet brass Kaiser BBb (based on an early Bohland & Fuchs model) is due out later this year. That is the one I am looking forward to trying the most. I am hoping one will be available for you to review. Thanks again for another thoughtful and well-made video, Chris. Keep them coming!
I love the BODY of TONE in the upper register....no trombone, no french horn, or bassoon quality... TUBA all the way!!! I wager folks in the back row of your venues will agree :) Thank you for these video gifts for the community. Joe
While listening to this tuba and cross referencing compared to the CC horns in your previous video I can definitely tell this tuba seems way more "tubby" in the sound. I would love to see a review on the Eastman 632 4/4 if you have the availability. It seems like a lot of people are picking up those tubas and I would love to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks for making these videos! Not only are they informative but they are a joy (at least to me) to hear you discuss equipment and play!
Chris Olka how would you compare this tuba to the Hagen BBb in response and tone quality in the orchestra? You spoke very highly of the Hagen (without any doubt I would too just hearing it) and this tuba you had mentioned the projection is not quite like the "York" models. How would this compare to the Hagen in that retrospect?
Wow! You're spot on re the "Wind Ensemble" foundation comment, IMHO! I'm thinking even a smaller bell might tighten up the sound...I Right now, my "Band" Tuba is an old 24-J, with a 19" upright bell from the fine folks at Kanstul! The difference between the stock 24' upright, and the 19" is pretty obvious with the thing sitting(and you think the Wessex is heavy!)on my lap, and even more evident in the back of the hall! Maybe that(smaller bell) would be a more economical "fix" for the average client? I still don't prefer the 24-J to my Wessex XL, a 5/4 BBb, for "heavy" orchestral playing, as you can feel the 24-J in the back of the hall, but it's almost indiscernible From the Double Basses, though the recording engineer noticed a difference with the 19" bell installed...This Grand BBb, could be just what the doctor ordered for my Band work, especially considering the insidious quirks brought on by the short stroke, elliptical ported valves on the old Conn! Jonathan Hodgetts began his business because he genuinely loves playing the Tuba, and providing affordable, yet playable instruments to those of us NOT born wealthy! His efforts at the JinBao factory have resulted in higher quality offerings by ALL the sellers of JinBao products! Your (Dylan) Cimbasso being a perfect example of this effect! I'm anxious to try the BAT's in April, if I can make the trek to Ellensburg, not too far from your old stomping grounds! BTW, i can't remember if you had the Seattle Symphony job when my superb band, and Orchestra mate, David Taylor, was the Contra-Bassoonist for that group. No offense, but i was always more familiar with the Oregon Symphony, living just 65 miles north of their Hall, and having had the privilege of a few lessons with the Late John Richards. Dr. John was in Longview quite a bit back in the day, especially when his Grand daughter blew Bass Clarinet in our local wind band...
This horn is NOT an example of a master making chicken salad from chicken manure! I had this on my old, semi-pro lap last Friday, and it's the real deal! Sounds awesome, slots well, and allows for intricate articulation deep in the basement! Not quite as "warm" as my trusty old 24-J, but very close! And without the wonky notes higher in the staff, or the horribly Flat, open "F" right below the Bass Clef! Spoiler alert: Jonathan (Wessex Founder) Hodgetts had a completed prototype of the "handmade" version of BBb Grand, and it was on a par with his Chicago CC's, IMHO! I have had one or two hand made, 6/4 BBb's on my lap in the past. A 345, and a York style, built by a master, so i have a reference! While hand made Grand certainly surpasses the several "factory" Cerveney's, Miraphone's I've tried, though with a much less "German " , more "American" sound, word is that it's price tag won't come even close to a new European ax! I heard from a little bird, that yet another modern Tuba Hero in Chicago may be trying All 4 of the new Wessex 6/4 BBb's, and CC's! I can't wait to hear a review. PLEASE! You do have all of your peers on speed dial, don't you, Mr. Olka? LOL!
Scott Triplett , by the time I got to try the handmade prototype I’d been playing the first prototype BBb for a month or so, warming up. I’ve really come to like it. The handmade was even better though! I’d go into more detail if I had a less hostile place to do it for public consumption. However, the current venue of choice has been hijacked by a mindless group of “Howler monkeys”!!! There’s a growing number of orchestra pros that are starting to see the attraction of a quality BAT BBb! Here’s hoping to have more available for everyone!
The major gripes about the Wessex, and other Chinese Tubas are being addressed, mainly QC of rotors, and related... I'm hoping Jonathan, and/or Chuck Nickels can find some time to visit a certain craftsman in Seattle, as he has much constructive criticism to share. As far as a BBb BAT, I've always been fond of them, especially for Band work... I think a bit more "German" edge is called for in an Orchestra setting, and many pros are wrapped up in a CC horn. Dr. John(Richards) could make any horn sound great. Years back, I was whining about the 3-piston 20-J my Community College issued me. He set the thing on his lap, stuck his mouthpiece in, and let out the warmest 1st. partial Bb I had ever heard. Without any articulation, the low Bb disappeared, exposing the F, then the next Bb, D, F and so on into the altissimo range. That inspired me to keep playing, and ,when the opportunity came, i bought my "poor man's 6/4", a 24-J equipped with a 19" Kanstul upright bell! I have a 5/4 BBb, and a Miraclone Eb now, but I love that warmth the old Conn gives. It's just not appropriate sounding for Orchestral playing, IMHO! I'm thinking something like that 20" Chicago would handle most of what I would need in a Contrabass Tuba for Symphony work...Which brings me to the subject of Bass Tuba. I would love to hear your thoughts re F, and Eb Bass Tubas, and what sort of mouthpiece differences, and general approach to playing vs Contrabass Tubas. I don't buy into the F vs Eb argument personally, but i'm sure your viewers would like to hear your thoughts...I started on Eb in Junior High, switching to BBb soon after. I was turned off to F Tuba, after spending a year with an old Miraphone 281! JinBao's copy is so good, it plays exactly as out of tune as the original! LOL! Really though, i wouldn't be disappointed in the least if i called for a Bass Tuba, and Baadsvik showed up with his Eb, or Brandstrotter came with an F! LOL! Thanbks again for giving your time to other players!
Thank you so much for doing videos like this. I would love to hear your thoughts on some of the budget friendly horns more geared towards beginners or people who haven’t played in 10 years and want to get back into it. The Mack brass 200 and 210, Wessex luzern, or Wessex dragon when it comes out, as a few examples. There are some short examples of the Mack horns, but they are only one excerpt on each, not the same excerpt, so it’s difficult to judge tone etc, and played by someone who has an interest in selling the horns. I think a lot of beginner/ just for fun tuba players would appreciate your professional opinion on these budget horns.
GREAT REVIEWS!!! A tuba I would be interested in seeing is a BMB( Big Mouth Brass) tuba. They seem very interesting but there aren't any great videos out there for them. Keep up the great videos!
Braeden Held , thanks for the kind words. If you have the interest, send an email to BMB and ask them to send the horns my way. That’s how these have come about. Hopefully it’ll happen! Best regards.
I've had the opportunity to play the BMB J765 and the MW 195/2 back-to-back several times at Buckeye Brass in Plain City. I even brought music the last time (I had to get my daughter's trumpet fixed). Both are magnificent instruments for vastly different prices. Once the pandemic has left us, I'm sure Rob Phillips could find some way to get you the instrument. As a side note, Gene Pokorny plays version of the same instrument.
Thank you so much for your awesome review. i am wondering if Wessex would let you borrow, and review the Viverna and Dragon, i am thinking about purchasing one and talked to Steve with Wessex, he told me they were going to start hand hammering the bells on those and I would love to hear you play them and i bet your reviews would help sell more of them :-)
Hi Chris, I started on tuba the summer before my 7th grade year on a sousaphone, 28 years ago. My school purchased a Yamaha 3/4 for me 1 year later. In college they had a beautiful Meinl Weston for me to play. After college, I couldn't afford one and didn't play for 20 years. I finally purchased a Schiller BBb but have been very disappointed in the sound and quality. I play in a couple of local community band in the summers and whenever I can get time in a pit orchestra here and there. I am on a budget and love the big 6/4 sound. I am by no means a professional but do appreciate a good quality tone. What BBb tuba would you recommend for someone like me that just loves to play? Do you feel the 6/4 is worth an investment or would a good quality 4/4 or 5/4 be equally as good? Thanks in advance for your time. I just recently found your video's and I really enjoy them.
Todd, the Wessex Grand or Prokofiev are both great tubas. I’d also say look at the Eastman EBB562 rotary valve. It’s a real sleeper and quite easy to play. Probably a tad easier than the two Wessex I mentioned. Those three would be at the top of my list, in no particular order. Hope that helps.
The tone quality is pretty much OK, but it seems to have some intonation issues, especially the first valve, in spite of Mr Olka's effort to adjust it.
After 15 years of playing brass instruments 6 of which Baritone ( not euphonium) i recently made the shift to BBb Tuba. After testing, I bought a new Besson international 794. It is silver plated and compensated 3+1 piston valves. But I've never seen a great review video or anything like that on YT. So what is your view on those basses ? They are very common and probabely the most played brand and style of bass tuba in our region. ( Belgium). Maybe it is a Europe vs America thing ;)
What is your opinion on whether to buy a C or Bb Tuba? I already got a f-Tuba for smaller groups, but am not rly sure what to buy for a big Orchestra. Thx for all your Videos, keep it up and greetings from germany.
Sugarflash with as many great models of both BBb and CC tuba available, I think it is really personal preference which to buy for contrabass tuba work. It’s a great time for tubists!
For a good comparison between the massiveness in sound between the BBb and CC's... 13:28 Then jump over here- czcams.com/video/4U5GWZl0u4E/video.html 14:54 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- While the sound is certainly fuller and darker, you couldn't pay me enough to carry that horn around or play it without a stand for more than 10 minutes at a time. The thing is just HEAVY, way too heavy (especially for someone like me who likes to carry my horn around in a gig bag). It's got a nice sound if you want a very big, dark sound, but as Mr. Olka said, the horn could benefit from a thinner, hand-hammered brass. A smaller bell option like the CC might help to tighten up the horn as well; of the 3 6/4's available this one is the hardest to control IMHO. It's also got intonation challenges, but because Mr. Olka is the player that he is it's difficult to notice it. Then again, the CC's definitely have challenges as well- they're not horns you would be able to pick up and just 'get' right away, especially if you're not used to typical 6/4 tuba intonation. For anyone seriously considering one of these instruments- do NOT buy sight unseen. You have to HOLD the horn and play it for yourself. For anyone in the market for a 6/4 york-style tuba, give these horns a try. For the price offered, there is a lot of sound for the dollar. But try them at least, it may change your mind one way or another, especially when you hear a virtuoso who could make a piece of PVC plumbing sound great vs. the sound that most of us mere mortals can make out of it. Either way, if you're potentially spending that much money on one of these horns to begin with, please do yourself a favor and take the opportunity to give them a try. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you Mr. Olka, the videos are fantastic and give good *unbiased* insight into the nature of the horns. Now, if they only sold a tuba that could make me sound as good as you do...
Chris Olka It is my pleasure to input my 2¢ into the discussion. The videos have been a great raw analysis of the horns and I wanted to just build off some points mentioned that I noticed. By the way, adding those bookmarks is much simpler than it seems. When you find the timestamp of the video that you would like to send the video to, just enter that time as follows: --:-- (with the first dashes representing the minutes followed by seconds after the colon). You can additionally add a second colon with a third set of dashes for hours as well by using the following; --:--:-- (hours being first, followed by minutes, followed by seconds). Just replace the dashes with the numbers for the times and you're good to go. When you post the timestamp in the comments or description of the video (it works for both comments/description), youtube will make it automatically click-able (the blue colored "hyperlink") so that one can click on it to go to the selected time. Thank you again for everything Mr. Olka, your services are well appreciated by all who have watched your videos. Can't wait to see the next video with the updated horn, which I am only guessing will happen... ;)
Mr. Olka, I am a high school junior looking for a 5/4 CC for an introductory orchestral horn as I am playing in the Idyllwild camp orchestra this summer. It will also be my all around horn until I can afford a few more specialized instruments. Given your experience with Wessex I wonder if you had any insight on if the "Wyvern" would be an appropriate choice. Thanks for the excellent reviews and exercises!
Chris Olka TubaDylan has a review of the Wyvern on his channel. Personally, I prefer my Miraphone 1291 Clone after doing so work to make it more like an actual Miraphone 1291.
Great review. I have a unrelated question about your suggestions on practice daily schedule. We have concerts scheduled throughout the year. How do work your concert music practice time with practicing your fundamentals? How much time should be spent on each? A breakdown please.
Mr. Olka can clarify. But his drill of the week series is one of the most amazing series of tuba instructional videos I have ever run across. I’d say that it’s obvious he spends a lot of time on fundamentals.
Hi Mr Olka! Long time no see since we met in a duet recital in Tokyo last summer! Thank you all your videos. One small request: could you state what mouthpiece are using in every T&E videos? or maybe u did, but I didn't notice that.:) Thank you very much.
I hear your point about the 5th valve providing every note you could possibly want but how many times have you seen a pedal B-natural in any music in band or orchestra? I don't know I ever have... I think that's the only note you need it for (although false tones work well on that note without the 5th). Is the extra weight really worth it for the note you might play once a year?
You also need it for Eb, Db, and C if you want to actually play in tune, and 2-3-5 is a more ergonomic and often better in-tune option than 2-4 for B and E. You can even use 1-5 as a somewhat flat substitute for 2-3, avoiding the awkward 23/1/23/1 dance that comes up with Eb and Db sometimes, for example. 5th valves are way underrated.
Wessex hadn't released the "Prokofiev" model when this video was made. I'm guessing that when they made the updated horn, they simplified the Grand a bit. Don't know why though. Also, this could have been a prototype horn before they finalized the design for production.
In this video, you can see that there is a fifth valve, and he even comments on that, but on the wessex website, there is no mention of the fifth valve, nor is it there in the photo. Is it just an old model shown in the video or the wessex page?
BBM ' , originally Wessex offered the Grand with five valves, as they hadn’t planned on another large piston BBb. After consulting with me they implemented my changes and the Prokofiev is the result. Since the release of the Prokofiev, they only offer the Grand with four valves.
It's actually a 5 valve Grand, Wessex used to make them like that before the Prokofiev. And the Prokofiev has a totally different valve set. The Grand looks like a 6/4 Dragon but the Prokofiev looks nothing like a Dragon or Viverna.
It doesn't sound like a pro tuba. Even with a pro player. You cannot generate a truly aggressive sound, if you hammer it just BLATS harder. 6/4's are not the way forward.
Chris, you said you were looking for a Bb tuba to compliment your C tuba. I never appreciated that there might be more difference than the key. Can you do a video explaining the pros and cons of each?
Even with the Ipad, you can tell this thing has a huge sound. Hope I get to play it one day. Thanks for the reviews too they're awesome.
Thanks for these reviews Chris! They're great! I tried this tuba in the UK a few months ago and was very impressed with it. It's good to see a top level pro giving honest feed back, especially on the 'budget' brands. I'm also glad someone shares my view about 5th valves on BBflat, I wouldn't want to be without one
I got to play this beast at NABBA, and oh my lord is it huge. Could barely pick it up.
Thanks for another great video! I was highly anticipating the reviews on these three tubas, particularly the grand BBb. After playing the instrument, and hearing others play it, there is something that simply cannot be denied about the breadth of sound and presence with the grand BBb. I fell in love with this instrument.
Chuck and I talked about possibilities for this instrument, as well as others, as it relates to hand hammered sheet brass. He stated that they did not have any definite plans one way or the other at this time, but he was quick to point out that they really want to make tubas that players really want or need, so nothing is automatically off the table.
I am sure you already know, but for other viewers… Jonathan has revealed on Tubenet that a hand hammered sheet brass Kaiser BBb (based on an early Bohland & Fuchs model) is due out later this year. That is the one I am looking forward to trying the most. I am hoping one will be available for you to review.
Thanks again for another thoughtful and well-made video, Chris. Keep them coming!
They made the 64 compensating tuba now its fucking huge
I love the BODY of TONE in the upper register....no trombone, no french horn, or bassoon quality... TUBA all the way!!! I wager folks in the back row of your venues will agree :)
Thank you for these video gifts for the community. Joe
Miss Duke thanks!
i love your videos and as a young tuba player myself i look up to you and your one of the greatest ever.
Thanks for this, I'm one of the UK BBb Bass players with interest in this!
Andy Cattanach , thinking this beast will be a hit with you guys! Especially compensated!
Would love to hear you with one, Andy!
bit of a dead comment, but i'm just wondering how you got into playing BBb in the UK?
i'm in the UK, but I've always been on EEb
@@PilliamWilliam Brass Bands use Eb and Bb tubas
All I can say is WOW!
While listening to this tuba and cross referencing compared to the CC horns in your previous video I can definitely tell this tuba seems way more "tubby" in the sound. I would love to see a review on the Eastman 632 4/4 if you have the availability. It seems like a lot of people are picking up those tubas and I would love to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks for making these videos! Not only are they informative but they are a joy (at least to me) to hear you discuss equipment and play!
Chris Olka how would you compare this tuba to the Hagen BBb in response and tone quality in the orchestra? You spoke very highly of the Hagen (without any doubt I would too just hearing it) and this tuba you had mentioned the projection is not quite like the "York" models. How would this compare to the Hagen in that retrospect?
I play a Conn 20j. Gotta love those BATs.
That thing is frigging huge. Lol
Very Good, Great Job
Wow! You're spot on re the "Wind Ensemble" foundation comment, IMHO! I'm thinking even a smaller bell might tighten up the sound...I
Right now, my "Band" Tuba is an old 24-J, with a 19" upright bell from the fine folks at Kanstul! The difference between the stock 24' upright, and the 19" is pretty obvious with the thing sitting(and you think the Wessex is heavy!)on my lap, and even more evident in the back of the hall! Maybe that(smaller bell) would be a more economical "fix" for the average client? I still don't prefer the 24-J to my Wessex XL, a 5/4 BBb, for "heavy" orchestral playing, as you can feel the 24-J in the back of the hall, but it's almost indiscernible From the Double Basses, though the recording engineer noticed a difference with the 19" bell installed...This Grand BBb, could be just what the doctor ordered for my Band work, especially considering the insidious quirks brought on by the short stroke, elliptical ported valves on the old Conn! Jonathan Hodgetts began his business because he genuinely loves playing the Tuba, and providing affordable, yet playable instruments to those of us NOT born wealthy! His efforts at the JinBao factory have resulted in higher quality offerings by ALL the sellers of JinBao products! Your (Dylan) Cimbasso being a perfect example of this effect! I'm anxious to try the BAT's in April, if I can make the trek to Ellensburg, not too far from your old stomping grounds! BTW, i can't remember if you had the Seattle Symphony job when my superb band, and Orchestra mate, David Taylor, was the Contra-Bassoonist for that group. No offense, but i was always more familiar with the Oregon Symphony, living just 65 miles north of their Hall, and having had the privilege of a few lessons with the Late John Richards. Dr. John was in Longview quite a bit back in the day, especially when his Grand daughter blew Bass Clarinet in our local wind band...
Scott Triplett I did in fact play with Dave Taylor and his wife for a number of years, until he retired. Great guy!
Wish i had that kind of air 👏
This horn is NOT an example of a master making chicken salad from chicken manure! I had this on my old, semi-pro lap last Friday, and it's the real deal! Sounds awesome, slots well, and allows for intricate articulation deep in the basement! Not quite as "warm" as my trusty old 24-J, but very close! And without the wonky notes higher in the staff, or the horribly Flat, open "F" right below the Bass Clef! Spoiler alert: Jonathan (Wessex Founder) Hodgetts had a completed prototype of the "handmade" version of BBb Grand, and it was on a par with his Chicago CC's, IMHO! I have had one or two hand made, 6/4 BBb's on my lap in the past. A 345, and a York style, built by a master, so i have a reference! While hand made Grand certainly surpasses the several "factory" Cerveney's, Miraphone's I've tried, though with a much less "German " , more "American" sound, word is that it's price tag won't come even close to a new European ax! I heard from a little bird, that yet another modern Tuba Hero in Chicago may be trying All 4 of the new Wessex 6/4 BBb's, and CC's! I can't wait to hear a review. PLEASE! You do have all of your peers on speed dial, don't you, Mr. Olka? LOL!
Scott Triplett , by the time I got to try the handmade prototype I’d been playing the first prototype BBb for a month or so, warming up. I’ve really come to like it. The handmade was even better though! I’d go into more detail if I had a less hostile place to do it for public consumption. However, the current venue of choice has been hijacked by a mindless group of “Howler monkeys”!!! There’s a growing number of orchestra pros that are starting to see the attraction of a quality BAT BBb! Here’s hoping to have more available for everyone!
The major gripes about the Wessex, and other Chinese Tubas are being addressed, mainly QC of rotors, and related... I'm hoping Jonathan, and/or Chuck Nickels can find some time to visit a certain craftsman in Seattle, as he has much constructive criticism to share. As far as a BBb BAT, I've always been fond of them, especially for Band work... I think a bit more "German" edge is called for in an Orchestra setting, and many pros are wrapped up in a CC horn. Dr. John(Richards) could make any horn sound great. Years back, I was whining about the 3-piston 20-J my Community College issued me. He set the thing on his lap, stuck his mouthpiece in, and let out the warmest 1st. partial Bb I had ever heard. Without any articulation, the low Bb disappeared, exposing the F, then the next Bb, D, F and so on into the altissimo range. That inspired me to keep playing, and ,when the opportunity came, i bought my "poor man's 6/4", a 24-J equipped with a 19" Kanstul upright bell! I have a 5/4 BBb, and a Miraclone Eb now, but I love that warmth the old Conn gives. It's just not appropriate sounding for Orchestral playing, IMHO! I'm thinking something like that 20" Chicago would handle most of what I would need in a Contrabass Tuba for Symphony work...Which brings me to the subject of Bass Tuba. I would love to hear your thoughts re F, and Eb Bass Tubas, and what sort of mouthpiece differences, and general approach to playing vs Contrabass Tubas. I don't buy into the F vs Eb argument personally, but i'm sure your viewers would like to hear your thoughts...I started on Eb in Junior High, switching to BBb soon after. I was turned off to F Tuba, after spending a year with an old Miraphone 281! JinBao's copy is so good, it plays exactly as out of tune as the original! LOL! Really though, i wouldn't be disappointed in the least if i called for a Bass Tuba, and Baadsvik showed up with his Eb, or Brandstrotter came with an F! LOL! Thanbks again for giving your time to other players!
Hermosa tuba me gustaría poder tener una de esas saludos desde Argentina
Excellent! Thanks for your work in this regard. Lots of solid information here.
Another tuba to review from Wessex would be the 5/4 Wyvern model! It seems very interesting and versatile.
He already reviewed it
Hi Chris for a perfect Bb orchestral tuba you should really have a look at a Melton 197 . Thanks for your inspiring videos :-)
Such a great sound love it
Thank you so much for doing videos like this. I would love to hear your thoughts on some of the budget friendly horns more geared towards beginners or people who haven’t played in 10 years and want to get back into it. The Mack brass 200 and 210, Wessex luzern, or Wessex dragon when it comes out, as a few examples. There are some short examples of the Mack horns, but they are only one excerpt on each, not the same excerpt, so it’s difficult to judge tone etc, and played by someone who has an interest in selling the horns. I think a lot of beginner/ just for fun tuba players would appreciate your professional opinion on these budget horns.
Chris Yarbrough duly noted.
GREAT REVIEWS!!! A tuba I would be interested in seeing is a BMB( Big Mouth Brass) tuba. They seem very interesting but there aren't any great videos out there for them. Keep up the great videos!
Braeden Held , thanks for the kind words. If you have the interest, send an email to BMB and ask them to send the horns my way. That’s how these have come about. Hopefully it’ll happen! Best regards.
Chris Olka, good news, Richard Barth from BMB is interested in making this happen. Best of luck.
I’ll look forward to trying one!!
I've had the opportunity to play the BMB J765 and the MW 195/2 back-to-back several times at Buckeye Brass in Plain City. I even brought music the last time (I had to get my daughter's trumpet fixed). Both are magnificent instruments for vastly different prices. Once the pandemic has left us, I'm sure Rob Phillips could find some way to get you the instrument. As a side note, Gene Pokorny plays version of the same instrument.
Me and my friend are arguing about procusion over tuba and I need to show him this
Well played! It would appear to be that you have tamed that beast!
Fenomenale👏👏👏👍
wow wow love it!
great tone
Thank you so much for your awesome review. i am wondering if Wessex would let you borrow, and review the Viverna and Dragon, i am thinking about purchasing one and talked to Steve with Wessex, he told me they were going to start hand hammering the bells on those and I would love to hear you play them and i bet your reviews would help sell more of them :-)
Do you know exactly where I can find a Wessex Grand with a 5th valve? I agree, I enjoy the full range without having to lip the pedal C down to a B.
Hello Chris! What do you think about the Prokofiev? Is there a big difference in sound between the Grand and Prokofiev?
hello I'm watching you from France your videos are very interesting... what model of mouthpiece do you use to play the bb or cc tuba
Greetings from Panama Mr. Olka. A video with the Wessex Eb *Champion* please and thanks.
I'd love to see the Champion and the Cavalry, both compensating Eb's, compared.
wow im impressed by the breathing at 13:30 how do you do that
My teacher at Juilliard called them “catch breathes”. Grabbing quick, small breathes as needed to avoid large ones.
i have a Conn 26 J , 4 front action, short action, 38 pounds !
Hi Chris, I started on tuba the summer before my 7th grade year on a sousaphone, 28 years ago. My school purchased a Yamaha 3/4 for me 1 year later. In college they had a beautiful Meinl Weston for me to play. After college, I couldn't afford one and didn't play for 20 years. I finally purchased a Schiller BBb but have been very disappointed in the sound and quality. I play in a couple of local community band in the summers and whenever I can get time in a pit orchestra here and there. I am on a budget and love the big 6/4 sound. I am by no means a professional but do appreciate a good quality tone. What BBb tuba would you recommend for someone like me that just loves to play? Do you feel the 6/4 is worth an investment or would a good quality 4/4 or 5/4 be equally as good?
Thanks in advance for your time. I just recently found your video's and I really enjoy them.
Todd, the Wessex Grand or Prokofiev are both great tubas. I’d also say look at the Eastman EBB562 rotary valve. It’s a real sleeper and quite easy to play. Probably a tad easier than the two Wessex I mentioned. Those three would be at the top of my list, in no particular order. Hope that helps.
The tone quality is pretty much OK, but it seems to have some intonation issues, especially the first valve, in spite of Mr Olka's effort to adjust it.
13:10 Nice low notes!
Unfortunately, the newer version of this horn does not include a 5th valve.
That’s too bad. It really helps having the 5th valve.
Bravo!
Very late comment but would you recommend this instrument to a starting college musician? I plan on majoring in music education if that helps
This tuba is quite large. If you’re looking for something more flexible, I’d look at 4/4 sized BBbs
Which mouthpieces are recommended for this tuba?
That thing is only 5,000 dollars
Still a lot.
This particular silver one is $6500. Lacquer one is $5000. Not too bad tbh.
Try $15000
@@Bubbles-ij7vq nope. The earlier posters are correct.
That is absolutely ridiculous. I was anticipating 15K+.
After 15 years of playing brass instruments 6 of which Baritone ( not euphonium) i recently made the shift to BBb Tuba. After testing, I bought a new Besson international 794. It is silver plated and compensated 3+1 piston valves. But I've never seen a great review video or anything like that on YT. So what is your view on those basses ? They are very common and probabely the most played brand and style of bass tuba in our region. ( Belgium). Maybe it is a Europe vs America thing ;)
What is your opinion on whether to buy a C or Bb Tuba? I already got a f-Tuba for smaller groups, but am not rly sure what to buy for a big Orchestra. Thx for all your Videos, keep it up and greetings from germany.
Sugarflash with as many great models of both BBb and CC tuba available, I think it is really personal preference which to buy for contrabass tuba work. It’s a great time for tubists!
For a good comparison between the massiveness in sound between the BBb and CC's...
13:28
Then jump over here- czcams.com/video/4U5GWZl0u4E/video.html
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While the sound is certainly fuller and darker, you couldn't pay me enough to carry that horn around or play it without a stand for more than 10 minutes at a time. The thing is just HEAVY, way too heavy (especially for someone like me who likes to carry my horn around in a gig bag). It's got a nice sound if you want a very big, dark sound, but as Mr. Olka said, the horn could benefit from a thinner, hand-hammered brass. A smaller bell option like the CC might help to tighten up the horn as well; of the 3 6/4's available this one is the hardest to control IMHO. It's also got intonation challenges, but because Mr. Olka is the player that he is it's difficult to notice it. Then again, the CC's definitely have challenges as well- they're not horns you would be able to pick up and just 'get' right away, especially if you're not used to typical 6/4 tuba intonation.
For anyone seriously considering one of these instruments- do NOT buy sight unseen. You have to HOLD the horn and play it for yourself. For anyone in the market for a 6/4 york-style tuba, give these horns a try. For the price offered, there is a lot of sound for the dollar. But try them at least, it may change your mind one way or another, especially when you hear a virtuoso who could make a piece of PVC plumbing sound great vs. the sound that most of us mere mortals can make out of it. Either way, if you're potentially spending that much money on one of these horns to begin with, please do yourself a favor and take the opportunity to give them a try.
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Thank you Mr. Olka, the videos are fantastic and give good *unbiased* insight into the nature of the horns. Now, if they only sold a tuba that could make me sound as good as you do...
Chris Olka It is my pleasure to input my 2¢ into the discussion. The videos have been a great raw analysis of the horns and I wanted to just build off some points mentioned that I noticed.
By the way, adding those bookmarks is much simpler than it seems. When you find the timestamp of the video that you would like to send the video to, just enter that time as follows: --:-- (with the first dashes representing the minutes followed by seconds after the colon). You can additionally add a second colon with a third set of dashes for hours as well by using the following; --:--:-- (hours being first, followed by minutes, followed by seconds). Just replace the dashes with the numbers for the times and you're good to go. When you post the timestamp in the comments or description of the video (it works for both comments/description), youtube will make it automatically click-able (the blue colored "hyperlink") so that one can click on it to go to the selected time.
Thank you again for everything Mr. Olka, your services are well appreciated by all who have watched your videos. Can't wait to see the next video with the updated horn, which I am only guessing will happen... ;)
Hey Chris! Thanks for the enlightenment and the inspiration. I've been meaning to ask, what is your preferred lubrication for first-valve slides?
Toobalicious1 depending on the tuba and how tight the slides are, either Ultra-Pure light grease, or Yamaha slide oil.
Thanks!
Hey there Chris. Can you please review the Wessex BBb 6/4 Tuba with 5-valves 'Prokofiev' - TB693H. But if you had then please send me the link
Sempre assisto seus vídeos.
new version this Tuba is a TB 691P Leviathan
Mr. Olka,
I am a high school junior looking for a 5/4 CC for an introductory orchestral horn as I am playing in the Idyllwild camp orchestra this summer. It will also be my all around horn until I can afford a few more specialized instruments. Given your experience with Wessex I wonder if you had any insight on if the "Wyvern" would be an appropriate choice. Thanks for the excellent reviews and exercises!
Parker Burkey I’ve not played the Wyvern so can’t comment on it. I will be trying one in the next few months.
Chris Olka TubaDylan has a review of the Wyvern on his channel. Personally, I prefer my Miraphone 1291 Clone after doing so work to make it more like an actual Miraphone 1291.
Great review. I have a unrelated question about your suggestions on practice daily schedule. We have concerts scheduled throughout the year. How do work your concert music practice time with practicing your fundamentals? How much time should be spent on each? A breakdown please.
Mr. Olka can clarify. But his drill of the week series is one of the most amazing series of tuba instructional videos I have ever run across. I’d say that it’s obvious he spends a lot of time on fundamentals.
Hi Mr Olka! Long time no see since we met in a duet recital in Tokyo last summer! Thank you all your videos.
One small request: could you state what mouthpiece are using in every T&E videos? or maybe u did, but I didn't notice that.:) Thank you very much.
Chak Sum Lee I used an old Perantucci 10 with a “U” shaped cup. Same on the Hagen 497 video.
I see! Thank you for ur reply! How about on those C Tubas? Did you use Dillon Mouthpiece for those Yorks? Thank you!
I used the Dillon Olka CB1-A for the Chicago models.
sorry what does the A stand for?
btw hope we can meet in Redlands soon! I am gonna apply the Gene Porkorny Low Brass Seminar!
Chak Sum Lee , the A stands for American/small shank. E stands for European/Large Shank.
I hear your point about the 5th valve providing every note you could possibly want but how many times have you seen a pedal B-natural in any music in band or orchestra? I don't know I ever have... I think that's the only note you need it for (although false tones work well on that note without the 5th). Is the extra weight really worth it for the note you might play once a year?
In brass band repertoire that note comes up more often than you think.
british brass has it all the damn time lol
You also need it for Eb, Db, and C if you want to actually play in tune, and 2-3-5 is a more ergonomic and often better in-tune option than 2-4 for B and E. You can even use 1-5 as a somewhat flat substitute for 2-3, avoiding the awkward 23/1/23/1 dance that comes up with Eb and Db sometimes, for example. 5th valves are way underrated.
So on this video the horn has 5 valves. On Wessex' website the horn only has 4. What's up with that?
Wessex hadn't released the "Prokofiev" model when this video was made. I'm guessing that when they made the updated horn, they simplified the Grand a bit. Don't know why though. Also, this could have been a prototype horn before they finalized the design for production.
13:00 topp
13:40 Anyone know the excerpt?
Very end of Das Rheingold. Entry of the Gods into Valhalla.
Do you have a preference between piston and rotary valves?
Jeremy Henninger I generally prefer pistons, as that’s what I’ve always played. I’m open to rotors if the horn plays well though.
他のレビューに比べると少し吹きづらそう
Why is it called BBb? like double B
wessex日本で吹いてる人いるのかね？
どんな感じなんだろう？
In this video, you can see that there is a fifth valve, and he even comments on that, but on the wessex website, there is no mention of the fifth valve, nor is it there in the photo. Is it just an old model shown in the video or the wessex page?
BBM ' , originally Wessex offered the Grand with five valves, as they hadn’t planned on another large piston BBb. After consulting with me they implemented my changes and the Prokofiev is the result. Since the release of the Prokofiev, they only offer the Grand with four valves.
@@cheers623 Ok, thanks.
15: 47
Height in millimeters?
7:53
What Mouthpiece do you play on?
Its_Shxblvrbs on the BBb tuba I’m currently using an old Perantucci 10 model. On CC tuba I’m using the Dillon OlkaCB1 model.
Weird question, you should buy a cheaper one (maybe a euph) and purposefully dent it, try to fix it. Just a warning it probably won't fix
Show up to quintet rehearsal with that monster lol
Oi tudo bem eu toco tuba ré demol fa maior escala de mib grave na tuba
That's actually the profokiev the grand is only a 4 valve
It's actually a 5 valve Grand, Wessex used to make them like that before the Prokofiev. And the Prokofiev has a totally different valve set. The Grand looks like a 6/4 Dragon but the Prokofiev looks nothing like a Dragon or Viverna.
The slides on my luzern are missaligned they no way move like that.
It doesn't sound like a pro tuba. Even with a pro player. You cannot generate a truly aggressive sound, if you hammer it just BLATS harder. 6/4's are not the way forward.
Well…it still seems to be quite popular. Also, Prokofiev model addresses many of your observations.
who is the manufacturer? It sure isn't wessex as they are merey a purchaser and importer. Please let's keep it real.
Well their instruments are manufactured in China at the Jinbao factory but they’re completely exclusive to Wessex. Wessex is the manufacturer