AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Bb Tubas 2026
The top pick is Yamaha YBB-321WC Intermediate Bb 4-Valve Tuba ($7,406). Jupiter JTU1010 Intermediate 4-Valve 7/8 Size Compact BBb Tuba gives you the most for the money at $3,849. Melton 195-L "Fafner" Bb-Tuba leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 61 models across 14 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
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All Bb TubasTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Yamaha YBB-321WC Intermediate Bb 4-Valve Tuba
YBB-321 Bb-Tuba · Yamaha
4 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight10 kg
This tuba feels solid but heavy at ten kilos. The four valves move smoothly, and the big bell helps the sound fill the room. It comes with everything you need to start playing right away.
Pros
- Four Perinet valves offer smooth action and easy playing.
- Lacquered brass surface ensures a bright and responsive tone.
- Large 443mm bell projects sound clearly in large halls.
Cons
- Heavy 10kg weight makes setup and moving difficult.
- No internal mute or additional accessories are included.
82AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$7,406 now$7,406€6,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Jupiter JTU1010 Intermediate 4-Valve 7/
8 Size Compact BBb Tuba JTU1010 Bb-Tuba · Jupiter
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight9 kg
The Jupiter JTU1010 is a solid, dependable tuba for collegiate players and serious amateurs. Its 3/4 size makes it manageable, while the gold brass leadpipe gives it a surprisingly rich tone. A great balance of quality and affordability for those looking for a reliable workhorse.
Pros
- Gold brass lead pipe offers a warm, responsive tone.
- Durable brass body and bell provide excellent projection.
- Nickel silver slides ensure smooth, reliable action.
Cons
- 3/4 size may feel cramped for larger players.
- The finish, while decent, isn't as lustrous as higher-end tubas.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,849 now$3,849€3,429 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight10 kg
The Miraphone 91A GM is a serious tuba for the seasoned professional – or a very dedicated student ready to step up. The gold brass construction provides a warm, powerful sound with excellent projection, while the conical rotary valves make technical passages surprisingly easy. It's a true workhorse, built to last and deliver consistent performance for years to come.
Pros
- Gold brass body delivers a rich, resonant, and projecting tone.
- Miraphone’s conical rotary valves offer exceptionally smooth and fast action.
- Nickel silver rim provides a comfortable and responsive embouchure feel.
Cons
- The 5/4 size and 10.00 kg weight make it physically demanding for smaller players.
- The gold brass/nickel silver key system, while beautiful, adds to the premium price.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$12,794 now$12,794€11,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight10.5 kg
The Miraphone 496A Hagen GM is a serious tuba for serious players. The gold brass construction delivers a rich, resonant tone that cuts through an orchestra or dominates a brass band. This is an ideal choice for professional tuba players and advanced students seeking a top-tier instrument with exceptional response and projection.
Pros
- Gold brass provides exceptional warmth and projection.
- Hagen GM voicing offers a focused, powerful, and controlled tone.
- Minibal ball bearing linkage ensures incredibly smooth and responsive valve action.
Cons
- The weight makes it demanding for players with less strength.
- The Hagen GM voicing, while powerful, might lack versatility for some genres.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$13,414 now$13,414€11,950 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight11.5 kg
The Melton 195-L Fafner is a serious tuba for advanced players and professionals. Its robust build, responsive valves, and powerful tone make it ideal for orchestral and solo work – if you’re looking for a tuba that truly sings with authority, this is a top contender. It’s a workhorse instrument designed to last a career.
Pros
- Fafner valve design offers exceptional responsiveness and speed.
- 21.5mm bore provides a powerful, resonant low end.
- Heavy-bottomed bell delivers a focused, projecting tone.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- Weight (11.5 kg) can be demanding for younger or less experienced players.
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$15,488 now$15,488€13,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight12.04 kg
This Thomann 894L is a fantastic option for serious students and advancing players looking for a reliable and well-built Bb tuba. The compensating system makes it surprisingly manageable across a wide range, and the brass body delivers a warm, full sound – it's a great workhorse instrument.
Pros
- Solid 18.53mm bore promotes a robust, resonant low range.
- Nickel silver outer slides ensure smooth action and reliable performance.
- Perinet valve system offers excellent intonation and compensating capabilities.
Cons
- The 12.04 kg weight will be challenging for younger or less experienced players.
- While a good all-around tuba, it might lack the extreme projection of higher-end models.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,254 now$4,254€3,790 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YBB-641 Professional Bb Rotary Valve Tuba
YBB-641 E Bb-Tuba · Yamaha
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This tuba plays like a classic German instrument with a warm, deep sound. The rotary valves make it easy to play and keep notes in tune. It works great whether you are playing alone or backing up a whole band.
Pros
- Rotary valve design gives classic German sound quality.
- Warm and deep tone with rich character.
- Highly accurate intonation for easy playability.
Cons
- No specific bore size listed in the description.
- Bell dimensions are not provided in the text.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$11,784 now$11,784€10,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight8.3 kg
This Lidl Moldau is a serious instrument for the dedicated tuba player. The build quality is superb, offering a warm, rich tone with excellent projection – it’s a workhorse for professional orchestral and solo performance, particularly suited to those seeking a traditional European tuba sound.
Pros
- Exceptional intonation across the range, a hallmark of Lidl craftsmanship.
- The nickel silver lead pipe contributes to a focused, resonant tone.
- Robust brass body offers excellent durability and projection.
Cons
- The 4/4 size and 8.3 kg weight will be challenging for smaller players.
- The clear lacquer finish, while attractive, may require diligent maintenance.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$7,855 now$7,855€6,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YBB-105WC Standard 3/
4 Bb Tuba YBB-105 Bb-Tuba · Yamaha
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight6.4 kg
The YBB-105 is a fantastic student tuba—seriously well-built and easy to play. Its 3/4 size and Perinet valves make it approachable for younger players or those new to the tuba, while still delivering a surprisingly rich and resonant tone. It's a great entry point into Yamaha's professional tuba line.
Pros
- Excellent intonation across the range, thanks to Yamaha’s precision engineering.
- The lacquered brass finish offers a professional look and resists tarnish.
- 3/4 size makes it manageable for younger or smaller players.
Cons
- The 16.8mm bore might feel slightly constricted for experienced, advanced players.
- Lacquered brass can still develop wear marks with heavy use and improper care.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,433 now$4,433€3,949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight8.8 kg
The 282A M is a fantastic choice for intermediate to advanced players seeking a professional-grade Bb tuba. Its 3/4 size makes it manageable for a wider range of players, while the Miraphone build quality and conical valves deliver a rich, powerful tone that's perfect for orchestral and solo work.
Pros
- Miraphone’s renowned conical valves offer exceptional response and intonation.
- The nickel silver leadpipe contributes to a warm, resonant tone.
- The 420mm bell projects a powerful, focused sound across the range.
Cons
- The 3/4 size, while versatile, may feel cramped for larger players.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$9,821 now$9,821€8,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 61 bb tubas
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Miraphone 494 Hagen GM Bb-TubaMiraphone57Stable$11,896€10,598$11,896€10,598Check ↗
- 12
Miraphone 86A GM Bb-TubaMiraphone57Stable$12,009€10,698$12,009€10,698Check ↗
- 13
Miraphone 496A Hagen M Bb-TubaMiraphone57Stable$12,682€11,298$12,682€11,298Check ↗
- 14
Miraphone 495 Hagen M Bb-TubaMiraphone57Stable$12,885€11,479$12,885€11,479Check ↗
- 15
Miraphone 495 Hagen GM Bb-TubaMiraphone57Stable$13,244€11,799$13,244€11,799Check ↗
- 16
Miraphone 289A GM Bb-TubaMiraphone57Stable$13,345€11,889$13,345€11,889Check ↗
- 17
Miraphone 87A GM Bb-TubaMiraphone57Stable$13,468€11,998$13,468€11,998Check ↗
- 18
Miraphone 497 Hagen M Bb-TubaMiraphone57Stable$22,214€19,790$22,214€19,790Check ↗
- 19
Thomann Wotan II UL Bb 4/4 RawThomann55Stable$4,263€3,798$4,263€3,798Check ↗
- 20
Thomann Symfonic GM Bb-TubaThomann55Stable$4,816€4,290$4,816€4,290Check ↗
- 21
Melton 2011FA-L Front Action Bb-TubaMelton55Stable$8,750€7,795$8,750€7,795Check ↗
- 22
Melton 2011RA-L Bb-TubaMelton55Stable$10,100€8,998$10,100€8,998Check ↗
- 23
Cerveny CBB 681-4 Bb-TubaCerveny53Stable$6,733€5,998$6,733€5,998Check ↗
- 24
Cerveny CBB 683-4R Arion Bb-TubaCerveny53Stable$6,957€6,198$6,957€6,198Check ↗
- 25
B&S 798 International Bb-TubaB&S53Stable$7,631€6,798$7,631€6,798Check ↗
- 26
Cerveny CBB 684-4G Bohemia Bb-TubaCerveny53Stable$7,631€6,798$7,631€6,798Check ↗
- 27
B&S 796 International Bb-TubaB&S53Stable$7,846€6,990$7,846€6,990Check ↗
- 28
Cerveny CBB 686-4 Bb-TubaCerveny53Stable$7,855€6,998$7,855€6,998Check ↗
- 29
Cerveny CBB 783-4R Arion Bb-TubaCerveny53Stable$7,855€6,998$7,855€6,998Check ↗
- 30
Josef Lidl Moldau+ LBB 884-4GR Bb-TubaJosef Lidl53Stable$8,945€7,969$8,945€7,969Check ↗
- 31
Josef Lidl Moldau LBB 784-4M GM Bb-TubaJosef Lidl53Stable$9,642€8,590$9,642€8,590Check ↗
- 32
B&S GR51-L Bb-TubaB&S53Stable$11,111€9,898$11,111€9,898Check ↗
- 33
B&S GR55-L Bb-TubaB&S53Stable$13,312€11,859$13,312€11,859Check ↗
- 34
Jupiter JTU705 Bb-TubaJupiter52Stable$3,365€2,998$3,365€2,998Check ↗
- 35
Besson BE186-1-0 Prodige Bb-TubaBesson52Stable$3,995€3,559$3,995€3,559Check ↗
- 36
Jupiter JTU1140 Bb-TubaJupiter52Stable$4,712€4,198$4,712€4,198Check ↗
- 37
Besson BE994-2 Sovereign Bb-TubaBesson52Stable$14,590€12,998$14,590€12,998Check ↗
- 38
Besson BE994-1 Sovereign Bb-TubaBesson52Stable$15,601€13,898$15,601€13,898Check ↗
- 39
Willson 3100 RZ-4 Bb-TubaWillson50Stable$14,029€12,498$14,029€12,498Check ↗
- 40
Melton 195/5P-L "Fafner" Bb-TubaMelton · 2 finishes48Stable$19,080€16,998$19,080€16,998Check ↗
- 41
Yamaha YBB-201WC Standard Bb 3-Valve TubaYBB-201 Bb-Tuba · Yamaha44Stable$6,733€5,998$6,733€5,998Check ↗
- 42
Yamaha YBB-621 Professional 3/4 Bb TubaYBB-621 Bb-Tuba · Yamaha44Stable$11,784€10,498$11,784€10,498Check ↗
- 43
Miraphone 494 Hagen M Bb-TubaMiraphone42Stable$10,325€9,198$10,325€9,198Check ↗
- 44
Miraphone 84A M Bb-TubaMiraphone42Stable$10,549€9,398$10,549€9,398Check ↗
- 45
Miraphone 86A M Bb-TubaMiraphone42Stable$12,345€10,998$12,345€10,998Check ↗
- 46
Miraphone 98B M Siegfried Bb-TubaMiraphone42Stable$24,356€21,698$24,356€21,698Check ↗
- 47
Thomann "Junior" Bb-TubaThomann40Stable$1,682€1,498$1,682€1,498Check ↗
- 48
Thomann "Little Bear" Bb-TubaThomann40Stable$2,131€1,898$2,131€1,898Check ↗
- 49
Thomann Odin Bb-TubaThomann40Stable$3,805€3,390$3,805€3,390Check ↗
- 50
Thomann Wotan II L Bb-TubaThomann40Stable$4,488€3,998$4,488€3,998Check ↗
Bb Tubas by the numbers
Measured across all 67 models we track, not a sample.
Median $10,325 — half of all bb tubas here cost less.
median of 40 models · 6.4 kg–11.8 kg
How to choose the best bb tubas
Material (Brass Type)
Cheap tubas often use cheaper brass alloys - you'll hear it. A good, solid yellow brass or even better, rose brass, will resonate better and offer a warmer, more complex tone. Cheaper brass can sound clangy and lack sustain.
Valve Type & Action
Piston valves are more common, but rotary valves can offer a different feel and sometimes a slightly darker, more focused tone. The action needs to be smooth and consistent; sticky valves kill articulation and slow you down, especially in a fast-paced ensemble.
Bell Size & Flare
The bell is where the magic happens. A larger bell generally means more volume and a wider, more projecting tone. Too much flare and you'll get a muddy low end; it's a balancing act to get that low-end thump without sacrificing clarity.
Neck Profile & Ergonomics
Seriously, this matters. A poorly designed neck can make playing uncomfortable and impact intonation. Think about the hand position and how it fits your body - a tuba you can't comfortably play for an hour is useless, no matter how good it sounds.
Intonation & Tuning Stability
Low brass is notorious for intonation challenges. A well-made tuba will maintain decent intonation across its range, especially when dealing with temperature changes on stage. Listen carefully for notes that consistently drift sharp or flat.
Buying guide
So, you're in the market for a Bb tuba? Smart move - a well-chosen tuba can really anchor a band or brass ensemble. It's a bigger investment than a trumpet, for sure, and the low-end thump you get from a good Bb tuba is something you just can't replicate. Let's break down what to look for, because not all tubas are created equal - especially when you start looking at different budgets and intended uses.
Don't chase the cheapest option - you'll pay for it in frustration later. Student-level tubas are often made with thinner brass and simpler valve systems, which means a brighter, less resonant sound and a more challenging action. If you're serious about playing, invest in a horn that's built to last and has a decent level of craftsmanship; a well-maintained used tuba from a reputable brand can often be a better value than a brand-new budget model.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 67 bb tubas from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a Bb and a CC tuba?
Bb tubas are generally brighter and more common in British-style brass bands, while CC tubas have a darker, richer tone and are favored in German-style bands. It's largely a stylistic preference, but Bb is more versatile overall.
Are student tubas any good?
They're fine for beginners to learn the basics, but they often cut corners on materials and valve quality. Expect a brighter, less resonant tone and potentially a stiffer action. Consider upgrading sooner rather than later.
What's a good budget for a Bb tuba?
You can find playable Bb tubas starting around $800, but expect compromises. $1500-$3000 will get you a solid, well-built instrument that will last for years. Above that, you're looking at professional-level horns with advanced features and craftsmanship.
Should I buy new or used?
Used is almost always a better value, especially for tubas. Just be sure to have it checked out by a qualified repair technician before you buy it - valve leaks and dented bells are common issues.
How important is a case?
Extremely important! Tubas are bulky and expensive to repair if damaged. A good, sturdy case is essential for protecting your investment during transport and storage. Don't skimp on this.
