Sousaphones

1936-1949

Model	Size	Description	Example
TBD	Bore: TBD Bell: TBD	Reynolds E♭ Sousaphone | Valves: three or four valves | Finish: polished brass with lacquer finish; silverplated bright bell or silverplated gold bell finishes also available
TBD	Bore: TBD Bell: TBD	Reynolds BB♭ Sousaphone | Valves: three or four valves | Finish: polished brass with lacquer finish; silverplated bright bell or silverplated gold bell finishes also available
1219	Bore: TBD Bell: 24″	The Regent E♭ Sousaphone | Valves: three valves | Finish: polished brass with gold lacquer finish; triple silverplated, satin finish, bright silver points, bright bell or gold bell finish also available
1220	Bore: TBD Bell: 24″	The Regent BB♭ Sousaphone | Valves: three valves | Finish: polished brass with gold lacquer finish; triple silverplated, satin finish, bright silver points, bright bell or gold bell finish also available

1949-1961

Circa 1949, the Reynolds sousaphones were rebranded as Contempora models. The Regent models were discontinued as Reynolds and Ohio Band operations were consolidated under the Roth-Reynolds name.

Model	Size	Description	Example
130	Bore: .687″ Bell: 23″	Contempora E♭ Sousaphone | Valves: three side-action piston valves; optional fourth valve | Bell: detachable bell with doubly-reinforced bell ring | Finish: polished brass with lacquer finish; silverplated bright bell or silverplated gold bell finishes were available at an additional cost
140	Bore: .687″ Bell: 25″	Contempora BB♭ Sousaphone | Valves: three side-action piston valves; optional fourth valve | Bell: detachable bell with doubly-reinforced bell ring | Finish: polished brass with lacquer finish; silverplated bright bell or silverplated gold bell finishes were available at an additional cost

1961-1964

Model	Size	Description	Example
SU-11	Bore: .687″ Bell: 25″	Contempora BB♭ Sousaphone | Same as Model 140 above
SU-12	Bore: .687″ Bell: 23″	Contempora E♭ Sousaphone | Same as Model 130 above	No photo available

1964-1970

Notes and Quotes

193x Ohio Band catalog:

As the most commanding instruments in the band, Sousaphones must be of outstanding appearance. The biggest member of THE REGENT family has a 24″ detachable bell, both in the E♭ and BB♭ models. These Sousaphones are essentially precision instruments and have ample volume. Built in regulation size, they produce a deep, vibrant organ tone, necessary and desirable in this type instrument.

1947 Catalog:

Reynolds Sousaphones are built in both BB♭ and E♭ Models. They are outstanding in appearance and design and perfectly balanced. The tone is rich and colorful. While tremendous volume is available the voicing is flexible and sensitive to attack, ranging from the softest tones to its unlimited power without any ‘cracking’.

1953, 1958, 1959 Catalogs:

Reynolds Contempora Sousaphones are a guarantee of a fine musical foundation in any organization. Graceful in appearance and designed for easy, comfortable handling, Contempora Sousaphones have the penetrating, round bass sound preferred by discriminating directors. Full tone throughout the entire range. Mighty power without distortion or ‘cracking.’ A masterpiece by Roth-Reynolds, built for years and years of dependable service. Available in BB♭ or E♭ models, in three different finishes. Form-fitting case extra.

1966 Catalog:

All brass with a 25″ diameter detachable bell, and doubly reinforced bell ring. Sturdily braced throughout. Weighs 28 lbs. Silverplate with bright bell or silver plate and gold bell optional.

1970 Reynolds catalog:

From the marching field to the concert stage, the SU-11 is equally at home. Quiet, fast valve action in technial passages — a smooth, singing tone in lyrical passages — both are characteristic of Reynolds because of the skill and artistry built into each instrument. Modern tooling and the latest ideas of design make the SU-11 the choice of many of the country’s top performers and conductors.

The Reynolds SU-12 (E♭) cannot be matched as a lightweight instrument for the younger player or for more advanced players who must play in the upper register. Forty years of manufacturing and design experience combined with the finest tooling available assure effortless response, precise intonation, and rugged durability. Full bodied, yet flexible, this instrument meets the demands of the most discriminating performer.