I have had Amati style water keys added to a few of my tubas to try solving that problem. They work OK, but you have to keep the internal bits lubricated or they can stick in the open position. I use valve oil, but there is probably something better. They are small and can be put just about anywhere.
http://bassic-sax.ca/blog/wp-content/up ... -valve.jpg (not mine.)
Adding a water key
- David Richoux
- 5 valves

- Posts: 1957
- Joined: Wed Nov 03, 2004 11:52 pm
- Location: San Francisco Bay Area, mostly. Also Greater Seattle at times.
- bort
- 6 valves

- Posts: 11223
- Joined: Wed Sep 22, 2004 11:08 pm
- Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Re: Adding a water key
I once asked David Fedderly if there were any negative effects of adding a water key, and his reply was "yes, one...it costs you a few extra dollars." 
Go for it!
Go for it!