Tuba: Alexander 163 CC Five Valve, Rotary Start Price USD 4,999.99 Current Price USD 4,999.99 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price USD 5,300.00 Reserve Price - Start Time Sunday, October 05, 2008 End Time Sunday, October 12, 2008 Location Columbia, SC See more about 'Tuba: Alexander 163 CC Five Valve, Rotary' Description This is a classic Alexander CC tuba. The number on the lead pipe is 91XX-A. When I bought it 4-5 years ago, it was suggested this was likely from the late 1960s, but I do not know how to check Alexander serial numbers.It does of course have some Alex dents and dings and scratches. I have had some dents rolled out of the top bow and one of the tuning slides, but nothing major that prevented playing the horn. I don't see any evidence of any major crushing or a smashed-up bell. That is my reflection at the bottom of the photo of the bell's throat--not actual ripples.It's bare brass, although I buffed it up one long weekend when I was bored and pretty much keep it that way. It does have the extra large leadpipe that I think is called called the "emperor" or “kaiser.” But at some point a pressure fit insert was put in place that does a good job of holding the standard "European" shank, but not the smaller American. You should be able to find a European shank tuba mouthpiece at any of the three well-known tuba dealers on the East Coast and likely elsewhere, and I can probably toss in a mouthpiece if needed, although it may not be the size cup or rim you prefer, because you will definitely want to play this horn the minute it arrives. I have replaced it with a used Yamaha because I mainly use a tuba to double in big bands I play in and need something with a brighter, blatty-er sound. Alexanders tend to be on the dark side and lovely in tone.It has a very nice, sturdy hard case w/ handles and wheels. The valve linkages were in a mess when I got it, with bits and pieces of at least three different manufacturers in place and nylon cracking. I had those replaced with the radio-helicopter parts system, and I've been very satisfied with how quiet and smooth they are compared to what was there before. 4th valve can stick a bit if you don't oil it once or twice a week at least, but it does not require to be oiled 4 times a gig or rehearsal, and when I was quinteting, if I'd oiled it the night before, I would have no problems in a 2-hour rehearsal.There are a few patches, and one is on the leadpipe, somewhat down from the mouthpiece receiver, and one is on the main tuning slide. I tried to show those in the pictures. There is no spit valve on the main slide, that looks to have been removed and closed off w/patch, but the tuning slide is incredibly easy and smooth to yank, so I just yank and dump. Faster and easier than rolling around trying to hit the spit valve's sweet spot anyhow.It plays decently in tune for an Alexander, although a 163 can be challenging in that regard until you get used to its quirks. I worked out with a tuner (which I do routinely on any horn I play, keeps me honest) and I used this in a brass quintet for 3 years, and the group and I were well satisfied with the intonation. Others who have played it feel it is one of the “good” ones.Tuba will be shipped in the hard case. I will use lots of packing tape to ensure it stays shut in shipping and can try to tape some pieces of bubble wrap around the latches and handle, but the case will not be packed in a box. I will also place cloth/bubble-wrap inside to provide extra protection for the bell and valve section.Seller may reject bids from bidders who have “zero” experience (if you have a zero by your name when you look at eBay, this is you).Seller may reject bids from people with negative feedback. Please query the seller if you want to bid and fall into these categories.Payment is due within 7 days of the close of auction, or the seller may then cancel the winning bid. Winning bidder is responsible for timely payment, regardless of whether acting as an agent or representative for someone else. PayPal only, please. No other payment method accepted.Shipping in the lower 48 states (U.S. only) is a flat $250.00, which will include insurance for the amount of the winning bid. The seller will take care in packing but does not assume responsibility for damage during shipping, hence the shipping insurance. It is the buyer's responsibility to initiate and follow up on any claims with the shipping agent. If the winner prefers to pick the tuba up in Columbia, SC, then I will waive the $250.00 shipping cost, but the tuba must be picked up within two weeks of the end of the auction, as I cannot store it longer than that or accept responsibility for it once it has become your property at the end of the auction. This item is not for sale outside of the U.S. or in Alaska or Hawaii. Place a Bid!