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Hey Guys,

I have a silly question about sousa bits:

Assuming that the bits fit in the mouthpipe, how much difference does the proper bit set REALLY make?

I have a Reynolds 4 valve Eb, but inherited Conn bits in it. I am contemplating buying a set of (Olds) bits, but wonder if it will make any real difference (one of the reasons I hesitate is that I can't believe the cost of a new set of bits!).

I have never experimented with different sets of bits, on the same horn, but thought to myself that maybe someone in this vast community of intellectually curious tuba players, someone may have tried that experiment.

Anybody have some info?

I have played most of the standard models of sousaphones over the decades, in both brass and 'glass. Most recently, I have played a Reynolds 'glass souzy. I had both its proprietary bits and a pair of Conn bits. I felt the souzy had better focus and intonation with its proprietary bits. But it was a marginal difference. Others may not hear or feel the same. Personally, I like to keep original hardware if possible, because in my experience instruments usually do play better that way. But I understand a set of proprietary Olds/Reynolds bits can be expensive. If you have the spare cash, it never hurts to have a matching set of bits. If you don't, the souzy will still play well, and you can always get them later.

As long as they fit together properly... I found bits to be fairly equal. However... if you are in the market for bits to optimize your horn, contact Martin Wilk. He makes them with pinch screws rather than relying on friction fit to hold position. They also greatly reduce turbulence of the air flow better than generic types.