Guys, come on! We spend $X,XXX.xx or even $XX,XXX.xx on instruments, $XXX.xx on all sorts of accessories and mouthpiece safaris, and there are two pages of discussion on a $25.00 part? (OK, $30 if you get gold)(and, OK, flat rate shipping)
Just buy one and see. If it doesn't work, flip it in the "for sale" section for $20 including postage. Or keep it for the next tuba.
When I went on a mouthpiece safari, I tried many mouthpieces that when they didn't work out I flipped for the same price or only slightly less than I paid. Many others here on the forum have done the same. Even with the cost of $6 to $7 for priority mail, in the end I was still out overall less than the average price of a new tuba mouthpiece at the end, and got to try many more mouthpieces than I would have otherwise, and got exactly what fits me, my instruments and my playing.
Also, just like if a person has a position in the market, but is always concerned about commissions, that person shouldn't be in the market. Likewise, if a person is concerned about shipping costs, then that person should play what he has or only shop locally and be satisfied with the Hobson's choice where the person lives.
Now, if we were talking about a $XXX tuba mute, I could see all this discussion as to fit and timbre. But a $25 part....
