Posted by Pete Krill on October 30, 2000 at 13:18:58:
I did end up purchasing a Conn 52J (lacquer finish) to complement my other two horns, a MW 2000, and a MW 2145. The Conn has a lighter weight and sound, but is well constructed and has good intonation. I made two modifications so far, replaced the factory valve springs with Besson springs for a slightly stiffer response, and I placed some 1/4" interior diameter vinyl tubing around the rim of the bell to en it slightly.
I have used the horn in a small college/community band and it has worked out well so far. I haven't had a chance to use it in my brass quintet yet but I suspect it will be a good quintet horn. In the practice room, I've been going over the Franck Symphony in D minor, and the horn seems ideal for it. It has a nice singing quality in the middle and high registers.