I managed to snag this beautiful Weltklang/B&S 104 Bb at an auction (https://tubaforum.net/viewtopic.php?t=12780). Rather than pay almost $1,000 for shipping and wait anywhere between 2-8 weeks, I figured I'd save time & money and just go get it myself.
The journey:
If anyone has mouthpiece recommendations for a 104 (or an Alex 164, which this is a copy of), it would be highly appreciated.
Re: B&S/Weltklang 104 auction and pickup journey
Posted: Sat Dec 13, 2025 6:18 am
by Thomas
From my rather long term experience (approx. 20 years) with the original 164 I can highly recommend the PT/RT AMH Paul der Große Pro.
Despite the discussion here about large throat size this is a really good match in sound (feedback from colleagues and conductors) and light response throughout the whole (and extreme) range a Kaisertuba is capable of.
The PT88 ist more limited (for me) in the high and very low range and notes speak slower. The PT50 feels also a bit slower and sounds a bit less open from my experience.
Re: B&S/Weltklang 104 auction and pickup journey
Posted: Sat Dec 13, 2025 11:40 am
by MikeS
Every contrabass Alexander I have encountered got along really well with the Doug Elliott R cup. Doug can tell you the right backbore for your horn and you can pick the rim that suits you. Good times.
Re: B&S/Weltklang 104 auction and pickup journey
Posted: Sat Dec 13, 2025 12:00 pm
by dp
You're writing a cool story Diego. Congratulations on snagging one of Florian's tubas. He was a favorite musician of ours in our early-70's high school days, I was stunned to see how much of his stuff was on auction and remember noticing your tuba. Enjoy!