This thread might better have been started down a bit , on the thread about mutes. However, here is cool too I guess.
The thing you have to realize is that the "feel" when using a mute is going to be a bit differnt than playing "open". Just as on a gig, cup mute, st. mute, harmon, bucket .... they all 'feel' a bit different but you know where to relate the 'feeling' to open playing ... dig?
There are ... a shit load of practice mutes avalible, and I have tried every one, inluding practicing / warming up with a harmon, cup etc ... The best one as far as the "feel" to playing open, is the "BRASS SPA" practice mute. You can find it on,
www.bobreeves.com ... click on the "V-Raptor" and it'lll take you to an area on the site where you can read about it!
BRASS SPA - Practice mute is ... $20 +/- ... and is the closest "feel" to playing open.
Michael