Eastman EBB534 4-Valve BBb Tuba vs Jupiter JTU705 3/4 BBb Tuba

The Eastman EBB534 is the serious instrument: a full 4/4 American-style BBb with four front-action pistons, a 19 3/4-inch upright bell and a .687-inch bore, built for advanced players, community bands and small ensembles. The Jupiter JTU705 is a 3/4-size three-valve student tuba with a 14.4-inch bell, sized for younger players moving up from smaller brass. Owners and band directors describe the Eastman as warm, centered and well in tune with strong projection; the Jupiter is praised as easy to handle and responsive for beginners. Buy the Eastman for a player who will keep playing; buy the Jupiter for a student who needs a manageable first tuba.

• Choose the Eastman EBB534 if the player is advanced or serious, needs a fourth valve and full 4/4 sound, and will play in wind ensembles, community bands or small groups.
• Choose the Jupiter JTU705 if the player is a younger student who needs a compact, light 3/4-size tuba that is easy to hold and carry to lessons and band.