Posted by Bee F Latta on February 24, 2004 at 13:07:10:
I've searched the archives for this and the consensus seems to be:
# CAN damage the response of the horn. No clarity as how to predict the result.
# Horns without a 5th seem 'more lively' and 'lighter' than the same horn with a 5th.
# Instruments with a 5th frequently posses a 'darker' sound, possibly with improved projection.
If I added a 5th to my horn, I'd design it after the main tuning slide if that makes a difference.
I know Mr Jacobs was always an advocate of adding valves to his instruments (where he felt it gave an advantage). I know others prefer to make do with as few as possible.
My gut feeling is that this would be a good thing but I don't want to screw up my otherwise lovely horn : )
Any advice welcomed.