AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Melton Bb Tubas 2026
The top pick is Melton 195-L "Fafner" Bb-Tuba ($15,488). Melton 2011FA-L Front Action Bb-Tuba gives you the most for the money at $8,750. Melton 197/2-S "Original" Bb-Tuba leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 8 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
Top 8
Full detail for the 8 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- 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 ↗ -
- Weight8.95 kg
The Melton 2011FA-L is a fantastic choice for collegiate and professional players seeking a responsive, powerful front action tuba. Its brass construction delivers a beautiful, resonant tone, while the 3/4 size makes it comfortable for a wide range of players. This is a true workhorse instrument built to last.
Pros
- Exceptional projection and resonance thanks to the large 440mm bell.
- Front action valves offer quick, precise response for agile playing.
- Solid brass construction ensures durability and a warm, rich tone.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- The 17mm bore may feel slightly constricted for some experienced players.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,750 now$8,750€7,795 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight8.9 kg
The 2011RA-L is a serious tuba – beautifully voiced with a dark, commanding tone. It’s ideal for advanced collegiate players and seasoned professionals needing a reliable and expressive Bb tuba. The rotary valve action is a joy to play, offering incredible responsiveness.
Pros
- Exceptional resonance from the yellow brass bell and body.
- The 18.5mm bore promotes a dark, rich, and powerful low range.
- Rotary valves offer incredibly fast and precise articulation.
Cons
- The 3/4 size, while manageable, can still be tiring for smaller players.
- The clear lacquer finish, while attractive, requires diligent maintenance to prevent tarnish.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$10,100 now$10,100€8,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This German-made tuba has a huge bell that sounds big and loud. The five valves let you play very low notes easily. It is built of solid brass and looks clean with a clear coat. It is great for big bands but too big for small players.
Pros
- Large 48 cm bell creates powerful, projecting sound for big bands.
- Five valve design offers extended range and smooth low notes.
- Solid brass construction ensures durability and consistent response.
Cons
- Heavy 5/4 size may be difficult for smaller players to manage.
- High bell diameter requires significant space in tight rehearsal rooms.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$19,080 now$19,080€16,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Melton 196-L Fasolt is a top-tier Bb tuba, delivering a rich, resonant tone and exceptional responsiveness. Crafted with a Fasolt bronze bell, it's ideal for professional tuba players and advanced students seeking a truly premium instrument—a workhorse for orchestral and solo work.
Pros
- Exceptional resonance from Fasolt bronze alloy bell and body
- 21.5mm bore promotes a powerful, responsive low range
- Precise rotary valves offer reliable, quick action and intonation
Cons
- Premium-priced, represents a significant investment for most players
- Relatively heavy, demanding stamina for extended playing
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$16,835 now$16,835€14,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Fafner tuba is built by hand from brass and features a huge bell that cuts through loud music. The smooth fourth slide makes it easier to play than standard models. It looks polished with a clear coat, but you won't know the exact weight or if it sounds warm or bright until you try it. This is a solid choice for players who want a strong, reliable instrument.
Pros
- Handmade from sheet metal for superior durability
- Large 480mm bell projects sound well in big rooms
- Smooth 4th slide curves inside the body for easy play
Cons
- No weight listed makes shipping and handling hard to guess
- Vertical tuning slide can be awkward for some players
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$25,254 now$25,254€22,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Melton 97/2 is a serious instrument, built for the professional or advanced student who demands top-tier sound and craftsmanship. The hand-hammered brass construction and carefully designed bore produce a remarkably resonant and controlled tone, perfect for demanding orchestral passages and solo performances. This tuba is an investment, but the sonic rewards are significant.
Pros
- Hand-hammered brass body delivers exceptional resonance and projection.
- 420mm bell provides a rich, full tone ideal for orchestral and solo work.
- 3B joint system offers improved ergonomics and comfortable hand positions.
Cons
- The substantial weight (approximately 22 lbs) can be tiring for less experienced players.
- The premium-priced tag places it out of reach for many student or intermediate players.
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$25,815 now$25,815€22,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Melton 197/2-S 'Original' is a serious tuba for the seasoned player. The hand-hammered construction and bore size give it a unique, warm tone and exceptional projection, perfect for professional orchestral or solo performance. It’s a true heirloom instrument – built to last and sound incredible for decades.
Pros
- Hand-hammered brass construction delivers exceptional resonance and projection.
- 21.5mm bore provides a dark, rich tone ideal for orchestral and solo work.
- Vented valves and slide mechanisms ensure quick, reliable action and intonation.
Cons
- The instrument’s substantial weight makes it less suitable for younger or smaller players.
- Handmade construction means slight cosmetic variations are possible, impacting some buyers.
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$32,541 now$32,541€28,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
Bb Tubas by the numbers
Measured across all 67 models we track, not a sample.
Median $19,080 — 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
Heritage & Craftsmanship
Melton's history is steeped in German tuba building tradition. They're not chasing trends; they're building on a lineage of quality, often hand-hammered bells and meticulously finished valves. This translates to a core resonance you just don't find in mass-produced instruments.
Tone Character
That's where the magic happens. Melton tubas have a dark, rich fundamental, a really solid low-end thump that doesn't get muddy. You get that 'warm breath' quality that sits beautifully in a brass section, but also has enough projection to solo. It's not a bright, sparkly clean; it's got a depth that's far more musical.
Valve Action & Response
The valve action on a good Melton is a thing of beauty - smooth, consistent, and responsive. It allows for incredibly fast passages and nuanced articulation. It's not just about speed; it's about feeling connected to the instrument and controlling your dynamics with precision.
Build Quality & Materials
Melton uses quality brass - typically yellow brass for the bell, which contributes to the tonal warmth. The construction is robust; these are instruments built to last. The downside? They're heavy. That's the trade-off for that solid, resonant feel.
Intonation & Projection
A well-maintained Melton will generally offer excellent intonation across the range. They project well without being harsh, cutting through the mix without overpowering other instruments. It's a balanced response that makes them versatile across genres.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking at a Melton Bb tuba? Smart move. They don't make 'em like this anymore - seriously, the legacy and the build quality are something else. If you're tired of tubas that sound thin, or just can't cut through a big band, let's dive into what makes a Melton special and whether one's right for you.
Finding a good condition vintage Melton is like hunting for a unicorn, but it's worth the effort. Watch out for cracks, especially around the valve casings and bell. Valve alignment is crucial - a sloppy valve job will ruin the action and the tone.
Don't be afraid to pay a little extra for a professional overhaul; it'll save you headaches down the road.
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 10 bb tubas from the Thomann catalogue (of 67 in the category). 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
Are Melton tubas really that different from other Bb tubas?
Absolutely. Most modern tubas are built for affordability, which often means compromises in materials and craftsmanship. A Melton offers a level of resonance and responsiveness that's simply rare these days.
What's the deal with the weight? Are they really heavy?
Yeah, they are. That solid construction and thick brass add up. It's not a tuba you'll want to lug around for a parade, but that weight contributes to the tone and projection.
I've heard they can be prone to intonation issues. Is that true?
Like any vintage instrument, intonation can be a factor, but a good setup and careful mouthpiece selection can usually address it. It's something to be aware of and factor into the cost.
What kind of mouthpiece do you recommend for a Melton?
Generally, a darker, more open mouthpiece will complement the instrument's tone. Something in the 6.5 to 8C range, depending on your personal preference and playing style. Experimentation is key.
Are Melton tubas suitable for beginners?
While a Melton is a fantastic instrument, the weight and potential maintenance can be a challenge for a complete beginner. A student-level tuba might be a more practical starting point, but if you're serious about low brass, a Melton is a goal to work towards.
