Posted by Bill on January 14, 2004 at 01:52:49:
A few people who posted messages here have modified their old Besson and B & H tubas by changing the leadpipe to a modern one and "mounting the leadpipe off the bell." How is this done exactly or what does it mean? Is there any soldering of the leadpipe to the bell? Does it mean that the stays or support flanges are not used?
Is damage or a loosening of the connection at the ferrule and valve casing more likely or it does not make much difference?
Any comments would be appreciated. Bill.