In a message dated 5/6/2005 11:28:46 PM Pacific Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> Fellow colleagues, > Here is a great example of why to be careful when using eBay. > Check out item # 7321051354 Conn 8D > read the write up carefully and then go to their feedback and check out the > item they bought > #7310468415 Conn 8D > > Read their comments about the bell, and then look closely at the engraving, > it is close, but not the same as on a C series 8D. > > The work some people go to. I think they paid too much for the horn. When you figure $1200 for the horn carcass, plus a set of bell rings and a new flare, and they probably had to run the rotors through the collet squeezer to get the right feel to the valves. They seemed to do a nice job buffing, and didn't obliterate the engraving. I can't see where they may have redone the engraving, but that would fall in to the same status as counterfeiting a $1 bill. Since they offer your money back, I can't see the reasoning behind making false claims. My own opinion is that if they used a decent thickness flare coupled with the screw rings, they probably improved the horn. All in all, they appear to have done a nice restoration competently. The proof is in the playing. They have enough confidence in themselves that they offer the horn on trial for a week. It would be interesting to see if the rotors are plated. I'm not sure how to view an outfit such as this. There is clearly blatant misrepresentation of the history of the horn, but if the work was done as neatly as it appears, the horn should be an outstanding player. What would a reputable shop charge for a new flare, valve rebuild, and cosmetic work that appears not to have taken off much material, and made the horn quite elegant? If the restoration will stand up to a week of professional scrutiny, whoever buys it and keeps it, attests to the fact that the horn does perform. For a purchase this major, one would expect buyer remorse would be comparable to buying one new. I would not enjoy being fooled in this way, but if the horn plays well, where is the harm? I would feel more embarrassment, than harm. I guess I don't much care what they tell me as long as I have recourse to evaluate the end result. From now on, I'll assume the presence of a screw bell indicates the original flare was trashed. I guess dealing with this just requires developing some skill in the wayward arts of life. _______________________________________________ post: horn@music.memphis.edu unsubscribe or set options at http://music.memphis.edu/mailman/options/horn/archive%40jab.org
