Thomann "Little Bear" Bb-Tuba
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
The Thomann Little Bear is a surprisingly capable tuba, offering a good sound and manageable size at an affordable price point. It's an excellent option for students, beginner professionals, or players needing a compact tuba for travel or smaller ensembles. The build is solid enough for regular playing, though not quite on par with higher-end instruments.
Product Description
- Thomann Bb- Tuba "Little Bear"
- Bb Tuba
- Size: 3/4
- Compact design
- Body and bell made of brass
- Gold brass leadpipe
- Nickel silver outer slides
- Brass inner slides
- Bore 1st-3rd valve Ø: 18.00 mm
- 4th Valve: Ø 19.00 mm
- Bell: Ø 380 mm
- 4 Rotary valves
- Ball joints
- Conical rotary valves
- Adjustable thumb rest
- Height: 800 mm
- Weight. 7.20 kg
- Clear lacquer finish
- Incl. mouthpiece and light case
- sheet music holder box and rings for carrying strap
PROS
- • Solid brass body offers a warm, resonant tone, surprisingly full for its size.
- • Gold brass leadpipe improves response and intonation, a nice touch at this price.
- • Compact 3/4 size makes it manageable for younger or smaller players.
- • Nickel silver outer slides provide smooth action and durability.
CONS
- • Lacquer finish, while attractive, might be prone to wear with heavy use.
- • 3/4 size can feel cramped for players with longer arms or a larger frame.
- • While good, the overall build quality won't match premium, established brands.
Product Video
Key Features
Bore Size
18.00 mm (1st-3rd valve), 19.00 mm (4th valve)
Bell Size
380 mm
Material
Brass body & bell, Gold brass leadpipe, Nickel silver outer slides, Brass inner slides
Valves
4 Rotary valves (conical)
Finish
Clear lacquer
Weight
7.20 kg
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Frequently Asked Questions
It's generally good, but the smaller bell means some lower notes might require more adjustment compared to a larger instrument.
Like many tubas in this price range, there's a potential for some minor air leakage – regular maintenance and occasional valve oiling will help mitigate this.
While playable at a professional level, the build quality and overall tonal depth are better suited for student or semi-professional use – it's not a replacement for a high-end instrument.
