banjotrader - Posted - 11/07/2014:  09:20:23

Hi there, wanted to get some perspective on real life experiences of the tonal differences between an early 20's Vega Tubaphone X #9 vs. an early 20's Bacon Bacon Silver Bell...  I've only heard audio clips, and it seems that the Silverbell produces a rounder sound, but the Tubaphone is capable of a more penetrating mid/high.  THoughts??

Also, is there any real sound difference between the Style M and X, or is it all in the added look...

Edited by - banjotrader on 11/07/2014 09:22:57

mikehalloran - Posted - 11/07/2014:  09:38:42

The second question is easier to answer. The M came in two sizes and there's a big difference between the two. The Vegaphone is the M with a resonator and a 23" scale. The M didn't usually come with a resonator but, after 1923, you could get them at any Vega dealer and they fit perfectly. The X and M of the same size with the same tailpiece (the M never came with the same 'piece but can be retrofitted) can be set up to sound similar.

As to the first question, it depends. You really need to play a few.

banjotrader - Posted - 11/07/2014:  10:00:38

So an X over an M  {both 17 Frets setup similarly} is just bling value?  So for a player, no added value if you dont care about looks.

mikehalloran - Posted - 11/07/2014:  10:28:12

Correct. Throw a Kershner tailpiece on the M. The X usually came with a Kershner or Oettinger while OE on most Ms was a NoKnot.

jbalch - Posted - 11/07/2014:  11:20:10

quote:

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Originally posted by banjotrader

...  it seems that the Silverbell produces a rounder sound, but the Tubaphone is capable of a more penetrating mid/high.  THoughts? ...

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I currently own a 1925  Silverbell. I have owned style M tubaphones in the past. I think your description above is accurate.  I'd add that the tubaphone produces more (and longer) sustain. I personally really like the Silver Bell sound.

Also - Silver Bell banjos changed several times over the years.  There are at least four different types of tone rings and variations in rims, resonators, etc. Here is a serial number list with some helpful information: acoustudio.dk/BD_and_Bacon_database.html

Silver bell tone rings

1. holes inside & out

2. holes inside (none outside) - my favorite

3. no holes

4. archtop

Edited by - jbalch on 11/07/2014 11:22:59

skip sail - Posted - 11/07/2014:  13:12:22

depends on what you play on it. Tenor,plectrum or 5 string? Trad Jazz with a flatpick, bluegrass with fingerpicks,frailing etc etc.
i personally like them both, a good Tubaphone can knock mosquitos out of the air and dominate a session, the silver bell is a bit warmer and quieter.