Posted by Andy Bryan on October 02, 1999 at 12:46:03:
In Reply to: Cryogenic Resonance Restoration posted by Doug on October 01, 1999 at 23:16:44:
The theory, as I understand it, is that the metal is stressed during the manufacturing process. This stress is relieved naturally through time, explaning why so many vintage instruments play so well. The freezing process, down to -325, speeds up this aging process, greatly reducing the stress, and improving the response of the instrument. If you go to www.thebrassbow.com, there is a more detailed explanation of the process. Several prominent tubists, including Floyd Cooley (Nirschl/York), Scott Mendoker, and Gene Pokornry (his F tuba) have had this done, and have written endorsements which can be read at the Brass Bow Web site.