Cerveny 601 BBb Kaiser Tuba 1950-60s

This is a very special tuba!

Midcentury Cerveny 601 BBb Kaiser Tuba, with Jakob Winter hard case

$3600

PICKUP PREFERRED in Southern California, we can meet in LA/San Diego. From the collection of Dr. James Thorpen, Wyoming Symphony.

Serial number appears to be 92929. Bell says made in CSSR (Czechoslovak Socialist Republic), estimated 1950s-1960s (see below). 

Professionally serviced recently. 

Rotary with string linkages, smooth, fast, and quiet. Has a somewhat newer leadpipe/receiver from a Cerveny 693 so it fits a modern shank mouthpiece, some discoloration where the leadpipe was attached, see photos. Overall, lacquer is in decent shape, dents have been removed, there is a minor bell crinkle (see photos) as expected on a tuba of this age: Cerveny used a lighter weight brass which contributes to the unique sound, but it also dents more easily. Does not include a mouthpiece. 

This beauty/beast has a BIG gorgeous ample sound, with a deep, rich, full tone– and of course, a low register that will rattle the dishes in your cupboards from across the house. Not every 601 was created equally, the factory’s build/material quality in the Czech Republic varied over the years, and this was a SUPERB era for these beautiful Kaiser Tubas.

Manufacturer specs:

Bore: 21.2 mm (.827")

Bell: 500 mm (19.7")

Height: 1120 mm (44.09")

Comes with a Jakob Winter 2089K ABS hard case, fits like it was custom-made. There is one small hole in the interior padding and a few exterior scuffs. Super sturdy (heavy) with wheels, locking latches, and a padded velvet interior. Made in Germany, holds two mouthpieces, measures approx 46” long and 23” at the widest point (bell). 

Purchased it used from the Tuba Exchange (was mistakenly listed as a 693, due to stamp on modern leadpipe) for $4400 in 2021 as the second owner. This tuba is from the collection of Dr. James Thorpen of the Wyoming Symphony, confirmed with the Thorpen family that he originally purchased it in the early 1960s and his estate consigned it to the Tuba Exchange in 2021. If you’ve been looking for a midcentury Cerveny 601, this is a wonderful find!