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A reversed leadpipe causes another change that makes us think that the horn is "freer blowing". The bell brace has to be attached much further back on the bell. This lets the bell "ring" more, radiating more energy from the outside of the bell. Our ears pick this sound up and that fools us into thinking that the horn "responds" better. In this case less energy reaches our audiences. A heavier or more braced horn will put more energy into the room and the acoustics determine what we believe.
We can get the same effect on with a conventional leadpipe if we move the brace back or remove it entirely. Moving the brace will change other response factors of your horn!!!!!!!!!!!
To prove this theory, take your horn to church and play a little. If the room sounds good, you get the impression that your horn responds well. Go outdoors and play exactly the same pieces. The exact same horn will be much "stuffier". The difference - you don't hear yourself as well.

If you carefully picked your present horn, it is good enough until you have the time and possibility to figure out the next step. Take your time! Mistakes are not always cheap!

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Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.