Posted by jlb on April 11, 2002 at 08:11:56:
Well, I'm almost convinced. I got the 25J back from Osmun yesterday and took it to town band rehearsal last night. I dug out an old Conn sousaphone bit and played with that in. Didn't get a chance to work on it with a tuner, yet, so I don't know about intonation issues. However, the ergonomics are 100% better. With the bit in, it was much easier to hold the horn and see the music without resorting to difficult contortions. A much more enjoyable and comfortable playing experience. The Conn is just the tiniest bit heavier than my Mirafone Eb, though ;^)
BTW, Chuck, the cleaning wasn't enough to completely free the 4th valve, so it had to be lapped a little. It's very free and playable, now. Smells better, too.
TTFN,
John (back in the BBb camp now) Breyer