Stuffy Tuba

[trseaman]

Hey guys,

You hear this term used a lot... What actually causes a horn to be stuffy and is this something that can be fixed?

Also if you could describe a stuffy horn, how would you best describe its playing characteristics?

Tim

[Rick Denney]

Also if you could describe a stuffy horn, how would you best describe its playing characteristics?

For me: Lack of resonance leading to a fuzzy and uncentered sound.

The cause determines the cure. A leaky water key can make an instrument stuffy, and so can poor design. The first is easier to fix.

Rick "recognizing that others may have different descriptions" Denney

[tubatooter1940]

If your significant other throws her underwear down you tuba, that could make it stuffy.
In my case, it was nothing so romantic. I found a dead bat down my old souzy - along with a couple of crumpled up Coke cups.

[MartyNeilan]

Valve misalignment is a biggie.