Combination valves: Some tubas offer a combination of rotary and piston-activated valves.

They are only found as front-action tubas.

Rotary valves: Rotary valves go from left to right instead of up and down they require little maintenance and lubrication and are often the choice of experienced tuba players.

Top-action tubas are only available as pistons though front-action pistons can also be found.

Piston valves: Piston valves are a good choice for beginning students because their simple, spring-activated mechanism is easy to learn, clean, and use and keeps the tuba light.

The options are varied to give versatility to the musician the right choice for you has to do with what your musical intention for the tuba is. One of the biggest choices you will have when selecting a tuba is about the kind of valves, their location, and their number. What should you know about valve activation types and numbers?

Key: The most common tuba is keyed in BBb, but options are available in CC, Eb, and F.

Bell configuration: Bells can be front-facing or upward-facing.

Valve configuration: Valves can be piston or rotary activated.

Brass is the typical option for tuba construction, and tone can be altered by adding different amounts of tin and/or nickel.

Metal: Tubas come in different metals and metal alloys, each of which projects a slightly different tone.

Its a good idea to know what size you are looking for before you begin to shop to ensure that it fits your body. Size: Tubas come in different sizes and weights.There are several components to consider when looking for a tuba: Knowing what to look for in these new and used brass instruments is important if youre seeking to get an ideal sound from eBays selection. Tubas are large instruments used in symphonies and other bands that project a smooth, deep sound. It is the largest member of the brass family, as well as the lowest-pitched.

Old tubas for sale