AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best F Tubas 2026
The top pick is Melton 2250-L F-Tuba ($13,917). Thomann Lightning M F-Tuba gives you the most for the money at $3,141. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 45 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
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All F TubasTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Weight8.2 kg
The Melton 2250-L is a serious contender for advanced players and professionals. It’s built with exceptional care, offering a remarkably focused and resonant tone that blends beautifully in an ensemble. If you’re seeking a reliable, high-performing F tuba with a classic American sound, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Exceptional intonation across the range, a hallmark of Melton’s craftsmanship.
- Stainless steel valves offer responsiveness and long-term reliability.
- The 440mm bell projects a rich, full tone with excellent blend.
Cons
- The 8.20 kg weight can be fatiguing for less experienced players.
- The clear lacquer finish, while aesthetically pleasing, requires careful maintenance.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$13,917 now$13,917€12,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight7.88 kg
The Melton 4260-L is a truly refined F tuba, built for serious orchestral players and those seeking a focused, articulate sound. Its light build makes it surprisingly agile, while the 3B joint system improves comfort. It's a top-tier instrument, but be prepared for the investment and slight adjustment period with the valve layout.
Pros
- Exceptional responsiveness due to the light construction and precise bore work
- Bright, focused tone ideal for orchestral settings and solo work
- 3B joint system offers enhanced ergonomics and ease of handling
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players
- Light construction might feel less substantial for some larger players
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$17,958 now$17,958€15,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight8.22 kg
This Miraphone 1281-L Petruschka is a serious instrument built for the professional tuba player or dedicated student pushing their skills. The combination of the gold brass lead pipe and conical valves creates a dark, powerful, and incredibly responsive sound, ideal for orchestral and solo work where a commanding presence is required.
Pros
- Exceptional projection and resonance thanks to the 420mm bell.
- Gold brass lead pipe delivers a rich, focused tone.
- Miraphone’s Minibal thrust rod ensures smooth, reliable valve action.
Cons
- The 8.22 kg weight can be fatiguing for extended performances.
- The Petruschka model is highly specialized, limiting versatility for some players.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$13,908 now$13,908€12,390 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight7.12 kg
The Thomann Lightning M is a surprisingly capable F tuba, offering a good foundation for student and intermediate players. It's got a pleasing, full sound and the included case is a real bonus. This is a great option for those seeking a solid, reliable tuba without the premium-priced tag of a professional instrument.
Pros
- Solid brass body and bell offer a warm, resonant tone.
- Nickel silver slides ensure smooth, reliable action.
- The included case with wheels simplifies transport significantly.
Cons
- The 7.12 kg weight can be fatiguing for less experienced players.
- Lacquer finish, while attractive, may require careful maintenance.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,141 now$3,141€2,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight8.3 kg
The Thomann Phoenix L is a seriously capable F tuba, offering a surprisingly refined sound and build quality for its class. It's a great option for intermediate to advanced players looking for a reliable and expressive instrument for band or orchestral work, particularly those who appreciate a full, resonant tone without the premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Brass body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end tone.
- Gold brass lead pipe enhances responsiveness and intonation.
- Nickel silver outer slides ensure smooth, reliable action and durability.
Cons
- The 8.30 kg weight will be tiring for less experienced or smaller players.
- Lacquer finish, while attractive, might require careful maintenance to prevent wear.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,479 now$4,479€3,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight9.25 kg
The Fireball M RAW is a serious tuba for the player who wants a big, projecting sound and isn't afraid of a little upkeep. Its raw finish and solid build offer a fantastic value for a tuba with this level of responsiveness and power – ideal for low brass sections and soloists who appreciate a darker, more mature tone.
Pros
- Brass body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low range.
- Gold brass leadpipe contributes to a responsive and focused airflow.
- Nickel silver slides offer smooth action and reliable performance.
Cons
- Unvarnished finish requires diligent maintenance to prevent excessive tarnishing.
- 9.25 kg weight can be tiring for less experienced or smaller players.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,479 now$4,479€3,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight9.25 kg
The Fireball M is a surprisingly capable F tuba, offering a good balance of projection and warmth. It's a solid choice for collegiate players, freelance tubaists, or anyone wanting a reliable, full-bodied instrument without the premium price tag. The build quality is commendable for the price point, making it a worthwhile investment.
Pros
- Brass body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end tone
- Gold brass leadpipe contributes to improved response and projection
- Nickel silver slides offer smooth action and reliable performance
Cons
- The 9.25 kg weight can be fatiguing for less experienced or smaller players
- While well-made, the lacquer finish might be prone to wear with heavy use
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,479 now$4,479€3,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight8.3 kg
This Phoenix RAW F-Tuba is a great option for intermediate to advanced players looking for a reliable, resonant instrument with a traditional feel. The raw brass finish offers a unique aesthetic and a warm, focused tone. It's a solid choice for orchestral playing or anyone wanting a dependable tuba without unnecessary complexity.
Pros
- Solid brass construction delivers a warm, resonant tone characteristic of quality tubas
- Gold brass lead pipe enhances projection and responsiveness in the upper register
- Minibal bearings on the rotary valve ensure smooth, consistent action across the range
Cons
- The unvarnished finish requires diligent maintenance to prevent excessive tarnishing
- The 8.30 kg weight can be tiring for younger or less experienced players
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,816 now$4,816€4,290 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight9.25 kg
This Fireball GM RAW is a seriously capable F tuba – the gold brass gives it a lovely, resonant sound. The 6-valve configuration is a boon for players needing that extra low range. It’s a great choice for experienced low brass players or those seeking a professional instrument with a unique aesthetic and willingness to maintain it.
Pros
- Gold brass body offers rich, warm tonal character.
- Nickel silver slides ensure smooth, reliable action.
- RAW unlacquered finish allows for personalized patina development.
Cons
- The RAW finish requires diligent maintenance to prevent excessive tarnishing.
- Significant weight makes it less ideal for younger or smaller players.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,816 now$4,816€4,290 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight8.3 kg
The Thomann Phoenix S is a solid, well-built F tuba aimed at intermediate to advanced players. Its responsive gold brass leadpipe and versatile valve system offer a good balance of power and agility, making it a great choice for orchestral or solo work. It's a premium-priced instrument delivering a lot of value for the money.
Pros
- Gold brass lead pipe offers excellent response and warmth.
- Nickel silver slides ensure smooth, reliable action.
- 4+1 valve system provides extended range and versatility.
Cons
- Silver plating may require diligent care to prevent tarnishing.
- The bore size, while standard, might feel a bit tight for some players.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,040 now$5,040€4,490 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 45 F tubas
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Thomann Thunderbird M F-TubaThomann54Stable$5,049€4,498$5,049€4,498Check ↗
- 12
Thomann Fireball GM F-TubaThomann54Stable$5,049€4,498$5,049€4,498Check ↗
- 13
Thomann "Thunderbird" S F-TubaThomann54Stable$5,610€4,998$5,610€4,998Check ↗
- 14
Melton 14-L Trolley F-TubaMelton54Stable$9,988€8,898$9,988€8,898Check ↗
- 15
Melton 4250-L F-TubaMelton54Stable$16,162€14,398$16,162€14,398Check ↗
- 16
Melton 2260RA-L Brandstötter F-TubaMelton54Stable$16,723€14,898$16,723€14,898Check ↗
- 17
Melton 4460-L F-TubaMelton54Stable$18,856€16,798$18,856€16,798Check ↗
- 18
Melton 6460-S "Kodiak" F-TubaMelton54Stable$22,448€19,998$22,448€19,998Check ↗
- 19
Miraphone 481C M Elektra F-TubaMiraphone53Stable$13,323€11,869$13,323€11,869Check ↗
- 20
Miraphone 481C GM Elektra F-TubaMiraphone53Stable$13,805€12,298$13,805€12,298Check ↗
- 21
B&S 3100-L (PT-9) F-TubaB&S53Stable$13,805€12,298$13,805€12,298Check ↗
- 22
B&S 3100/W-L (PT-12) F-TubaB&S53Stable$14,132€12,590$14,132€12,590Check ↗
- 23
B&S 3100 WG-L Fanny F-TubaB&S53Stable$14,918€13,290$14,918€13,290Check ↗
- 24
Miraphone 481C Elektra F-TubaMiraphone53Stable$16,162€14,398$16,162€14,398Check ↗
- 25
B&S 3100/WGJ-L JBL F-TubaB&S53Stable$16,835€14,998$16,835€14,998Check ↗
- 26
ZO ZTU-F800L F-TubaZO49Stable$3,356€2,990$3,356€2,990Check ↗
- 27
ZO ZTU-F850L F-TubaZO49Stable$3,759€3,349$3,759€3,349Check ↗
- 28
Yamaha YFB-822 F-TubaYamaha49Stable$14,815€13,198$14,815€13,198Check ↗
- 29
Josef Lidl Moldau LFB 654-5ILR F-TubaJosef Lidl47Stable$10,653€9,490$10,653€9,490Check ↗
- 30
Willson 3200 RZ-5 F-TubaWillson47Stable$13,347€11,890$13,347€11,890Check ↗
- 31
Thomann CB-900GL Cimbasso in FThomann39Stable$3,927€3,498$3,927€3,498Check ↗
- 32
Melton 41-L Cimbasso F-TubaMelton39Stable$19,978€17,798$19,978€17,798Check ↗
- 33
Miraphone 181C GM Belcanto F-TubaMiraphone38Stable$13,692€12,198$13,692€12,198Check ↗
- 34
B&S 3099/1/W-L (PT-11) F-TubaB&S38Stable$13,692€12,198$13,692€12,198Check ↗
- 35
B&S 3099/2/W-L (PT-10) F-TubaB&S38Stable$13,805€12,298$13,805€12,298Check ↗
- 36
Miraphone 181C M Belcanto F-TubaMiraphone38Stable$14,322€12,759$14,322€12,759Check ↗
- 37
Miraphone 281C M Firebird F-TubaMiraphone38Stable$14,412€12,839$14,412€12,839Check ↗
- 38
Miraphone 281B GM Firebird F-TubaMiraphone38Stable$14,927€13,298$14,927€13,298Check ↗
- 39
B&S 56AFT Fossi F-TubaB&S38Stable$16,050€14,298$16,050€14,298Check ↗
- 40
B&S 3099/2/WG-L (PT-10) F-TubaB&S38↓ 0.7%$16,153€14,390$16,153€14,390Check ↗
- 41
Yamaha YFB-621 F-TubaYamaha34Stable$11,784€10,498$11,784€10,498Check ↗
- 42
Thomann Lightning M F-Tuba SetThomann33Stable$3,254€2,899$3,254€2,899Check ↗
- 43
Schagerl Salzburg F-TubaSchagerl32Stable$6,588€5,869$6,588€5,869Check ↗
- 44
Klingspor F1 GM F-TubaKlingspor32Stable$16,826€14,990$16,826€14,990Check ↗
- 45
Rudolf Meinl 5/4 F-TubaRudolf Meinl29↑ 7.3%$30,296€26,990$30,296€26,990Check ↗
F Tubas by the numbers
Measured across all 49 models we track, not a sample.
Median $13,805 — half of all F tubas here cost less.
median of 32 models · 6.75 kg–9.25 kg
How to choose the best F tubas
Bell Material & Size
Brass is the standard, but the alloy (yellow brass, red brass, etc.) subtly changes the tone. Larger bells (24"+) generally offer more projection and a darker, more resonant tone - great for cutting through a loud ensemble, but can be a bit muddy in a smaller setting. Smaller bells are more responsive and agile.
Valve Type & Action
Piston valves are common, offering a more consistent feel. Rotary valves are often associated with a darker, more complex tone, but the action can be heavier, especially on older horns. A smooth, responsive action is everything - fighting the valves will kill your articulation and stamina.
Tone & Timbre
This is subjective, but listen for a solid low-end thump without being overly boxy. You want a horn that responds well to your dynamics - capable of a whisper-quiet pianissimo and a powerful fortissimo without cracking. Avoid anything that sounds thin or ice-picky - that's a recipe for ear fatigue.
Intonation
Tubas are notoriously difficult to keep in tune. Look for a horn with consistent intonation across the range, and be prepared to work with tuning slides. A well-made tuba will have slide markings to help with fine-tuning, but even then, ear training is essential.
Construction & Durability
Let's be honest, tubas get beat up. Check for dents, cracks, and overall structural integrity. A heavy, well-braced horn is generally more durable and will withstand the rigors of gigging. Cheap corners in the bracing or valve casting will lead to headaches down the road.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking at an F tuba? Solid choice. They're the workhorses of the low brass section, delivering that essential low-end foundation - the rumble that makes a band feel big. Whether you're gigging with a traditional brass band, laying down the low rumble for a funk ensemble, or just wanting to explore the depths of the brass world, an F tuba is a serious commitment. Let's break down what you need to know before dropping some serious cash.
Don't chase the biggest name - a well-maintained used tuba from a reputable brand can often outperform a brand-new, budget model. Be wary of horns that feel sluggish or have inconsistent intonation. Spending a little more on a horn with a smooth action and reliable valves will pay dividends in terms of comfort and performance; it's a big instrument, and you'll be playing it for a while.
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 49 F 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 an F tuba and a BBb tuba?
An F tuba is generally smaller and lighter than a BBb, offering more agility and a slightly brighter tone. BBb tubas have a deeper, more powerful low end, but can be more physically demanding to play.
Are rotary valves harder to learn?
They can be, yes. The heavier action takes some getting used to, but many players prefer the tone and feel. Piston valves are more common for beginners.
Can I use a tuba pickup?
Absolutely. Many players use pickups to amplify their tuba for gigs or recording. The voicing of the pickup will drastically affect the tone - some are brighter, others more natural. Experiment to find what works for you.
What about mutes?
Mutes are less common on tubas than on trumpets or trombones, but they can be useful for softening the tone in quieter settings or for recording. Look for a practice mute specifically designed for tubas.
How much should I expect to spend?
Entry-level F tubas start around $2000, but a good quality used horn can be found for $3000-$5000. Professional-level instruments can easily exceed $8000, depending on the brand and features.
