Rotary springs--clockspring or wire


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Posted by Chuck on October 31, 2000 at 15:53:07:

I'm interested in getting players' reactions to the question of clockspring vs. helical wire springs for rotary valve tubas. About 30 years ago, wire springs started appearing on tubas to replace the old encased flat clocksprings, with the statement that the wire springs were "better". But after having replaced the clocksprings in my old Cazzani, I'm not so sure. The feel of the flat spring seems to be a bit smoother. While adjustment is not simple, it's more precise than the "bend it and see" method.

Were clocksprings phased out as a cost-cutting measure or are helical wound wire springs really better?


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