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I have been playing a Yamaha 631 (in BBb) in quintet for a couple of years because I wanted a horn with less 'presence' than my Miraphone 186. And I also liked the idea of being able to have some variety in my horns. I had also hoped to get a little more agility. But I've found the 631 valves to take a whole lot more effort to play, and the resonance to be less than I had hoped. It's kind of "blatty", (ok, that IS cool, at times.) I love the convenience of a 3/4 horn, and it is a great looking axe (it's in silver). So.. my question is, has anyone played the Miraphone 182/282, as well as the 631, and can you comment on the horn's sound what I could expect if I made a change? I love my 186, but would like to have a similar sound (with less 'presence') in a 3/4 sized package.

Yamaha calls the 631 a 4/4 for what ever that is worth. I thought the one I played felt more like a 3/4. The true 3/4 in the Yamaha line is the 621 with which I have just spent the better part of 3 months. I was trying to learn to love the horn as much as my 184, little brother to your 186, but it just didn't work out. Why don't you try to find a 184 BBb if you are insistant on BBb as I am. They show up now and again on this forum. I have heard that they are back in the Miraphone catalogue as well. The 184 produces the same miraphone trademark sound in a smaller package. Good luck. BBb 3/4 choices are rather limited.

Thanks Ernst. You are right, the horn I am referring to is the 621. I'll keep my eyes open for a 184.
Chris.

Chris, I've played both the Yamaha and the 282 as a potential replacement for my Weril J680. I fell in lust with the 282 and it was probably fortunate my wife was with me at Woodwinds Brasswinds or I'd have bought it! It's a GREAT little horn. I have a friend that just replaced her 621 with the 282

Todd

Thanks, Gary. Always knew I could count on you for neutral, objective advice! (It did make me laugh, though. )