I have questions concerning four topics, but first the set-up story... I recently got my hands on an older Knopf compensating double horn. I had some minor repairs done and, after adjusting the first valve, it felt a bit stuffy but otherwise played very well. I've played some pretty nice instruments that can be described as 'forgiving' or 'obedient,' but this Knopf actually seems 'willing' to play what I want. Creepy, huh? I'm anxious to see how it plays once it's issues are resolved.
Corrosion - I had the horn professionally cleaned. The inside was filthy. The slides fit well and there was/is no evidence of corrosion on the outside of the horn. Is corrosion on the inside of the instrument a valid concern? If so, how can this be checked and, if necessary, remedied? Valve work - During the cleaning it was discovered that the first valve had been replaced with one that doesn't fit correctly. I contacted Christian Knopf about getting a valve for it. He has been very patient with me and my poor German generated by a web-based translation of iffy English. He understandably wants me to send him the horn so he can correctly install the right valve. My gut feeling is to ship the horn to him for this work. Does it make sense to send the instrument to Germany to have the work done by Herr Knopf? Can I have the horn properly repaired stateside, if so by whom? Overseas Shipping - If I send the horn to Herr Knopf, obviously I have to ship it to Germany. From what I've gathered, shipping the horn overseas is quite costly in time, money or both. The people at one shipping office raised concerns about being taxed on the value of the horn getting it through customs. Could someone with transatlantic shipping experience offer some tips, please? Also, if all else works out, I'm considering having the bell cut. I prefer a cut bell for ease of travel. The bell of this horn is so light and resonant that I fear a ring might dampen it. I asked Herr Knopf and he said the bronze ring he uses would not change the character of the horn. I've had screw bells on my Paxman 20L and Yamaha 667V. The Yamaha ring seems to be by far the lighter of the two. What are the differences in the rings available? Would one be more appropriate than another for this horn? Doug Life is a terminal disease - live with it. _______________________________________________ post: [email protected] unsubscribe or set options at https://pegasus.memphis.edu/cgi-bin/mailman/options/horn/archive%40jab.org
