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I think the Mike Finn 2 is a very good mouthpiece. That's because Mike designed the mouthpiece with me in mind. He and I corresponded regarding my desires for a heavyweight version of a Bach 18, the main mouthpiece I use on my Rudy Meinl 4/4 CC. BTW, the Bach MegaTone 18 didn't work for me at all. The MF2 that Mike eventually sent me is a really good mouthpiece that I use with my Rudy whenever I use the horn.

For your purposes, I would say that the MF2 will likely be a mixed result. I wouldn't say it is a particularly effective solo mouthpiece. Like the Bach 18, it is a pretty big mouthpiece and it works great for ensemble playing, mostly because it is not designed to be particularly useful in any one area of playing but rather as a more well-rounded type of mouthpiece, just like the Bach 18. The low register is especially nice. The extra mass on the mouthpiece also makes it absolutely superb for outdoor gigs.

Before you decide on any mouthpiece, be sure and check the results you get with a tuner. I think getting really accurate intonation with a given combination (you + horn + mouthpiece) is probably the hardest thing to find. If you can nail down a couple mouthpieces that give you that, perhaps you can find one that also gives you the right sound. I would definitely give the MF2 a trial and see what you think.

Check out the Laskey 30H or 30G (a better choice for rotary tubas according to Laskey) www.laskey.com

i play a conn helleberg.. Whether or not my range would be any better on another mp I don't know, I tend to think its me more then the mouthpiece that limits my abilities.....

I'm a highschool senior, play on a cerveny 681 which I believe is alot like your allora? not positive, anyway i've had a good result with being in tune and good tone. I believe I have the same notes as most people athat are 'just that way" the upper G in the staff tends to be a tad sharp, etc.. but all in all its been a good mouthpiece. I've played on it for a few years now.

If possible i'd play with diff mouthpieces if you really feel you need a new one, but in all honesty getting a new mouthpiece won't add a octave to your range, atleast It didn't for me.

but anyway, the conn helleberg is a pretty common mouthpiece you see around here for tubas, atleast in highschool. But that doesn't mean it will be a good one for you..........

Jacob