Cotton

I have a Getzen Eterna 700 Series. I'm having a problem with the third valve tuning slide. When placed in a vertical position such as on a stand, the slide falls out. I purchased a plastic retaining clip which solves the falling out problem but it still moves easily. Is this normal? Or do I have a bigger problem. The horn plays very well otherwise. Thanks.

Vulgano Brother

If you pull it out without depressing the 3rd valve, does it make a popping noise? If so, the seal is still tight and everything is fine. As a rule, Getzen slides and valves move very easily, and if the horn plays like you want it to you have another reason not to worry. My only gripe with the plastic stoppers is that:

a) they don't look nearly as cool as the rest of the horn
b) I couldn't quite get low c# low enough without using the first slide too
c) low f is impossible, so no good for Carmen or Heldenleben.

Those little dents on the end of the third slide are a pain to get out -- sometimes a thicker grease will hold the slide better, but will not be as lightning quick.

Have fun with your horn!

nieuwguyski

I wouldn't say it's normal, but don't assume the worst. Best case scenario, the spit valve isn't sealing perfectly. I suppose you could remove the third valve slide, stick the end in a cup of water, plug one end of the slide with your thumb, and puff into the other end -- if you see bubbles, the Amado water key isn't sealing.

The next possibility (in order of ascending seriousness) would be an excessively loose fit of the slide itself. Thicker grease might be a cheap solution.

The worst case would be a leaky valve. However, Getzen has some of the best valves in the business, the 700 is a fairly new model (as I understand it), and it seems unlikely that the third valve would be excessively worn so soon. Besides, Getzen has a lifetime tranferrable valve warantee.

Driplip

I've been playing Getzens for 37 years and your third valve slide action is perfect. You want a 3rd valve tuning slide that drops into position when the finger is relaxed. If you have to exert pressure against resistance of the slide to move it into positon, that acton creates movement of the horn itself that can adversely effect your tone quality. If you find it is too smooth for your likeing, put some heavier grease on it and thin with valve oil to your prefered level of resistance. I personally use Marvel Mystery Machine Oil on my 3rd valve tuning slide. It is the perfect weight in my opinion.

Cotton

Thanks for the advice. The slide does pop when removed. Haven't had a chance to try the water test yet for a leaking Amado. What would be recommended as a "heavier" slide grease. Yes, the plastic thing dosen"t look cool and limits the use , but it works for now.
Driplip, I'm also a big fan of Getzen horns, I think they are as good as anything out there, and better than most.

Driplip

The very thickest would be anhydrous lanlin, if you can find it in small quanties. Most drug stores can order it in but it usually comes in one pound jars and you could never use it all! I use, in my opinion, the next best thing which is Schilke slide grease on my main tuning slides. It comes in small jars for around three dollars. I think it is mainly anhydrous lanlin but with perhaps something else added to it.

Brett Getzen

This is a common question regarding our horns. The thing to keep in mind is that the ideal third slide is one that moves smoothly and freely but remains air tight. That's how ours are built. It is usually the compression of the horn itself that forces the slide down. If you hold in the third slide and depress the third piston it should hold itself in place better.

Brett Getzen

Cotton

Brett, that's exactly how it works. Thanks to you and the others for the replies. I've been in a customer service oriented business for over thirty years, and your willingness to interact with yours is why I bought a Getzen. Your products are top notch and you are an inspiration to those of us within the service industry. Myself and (obviously)Driplip are among your many fans. Thanks again to all.

Vulgano Brother

You may add Vulgano Brother to the list of fans as well.

Richard Oliver

Love the 3850 Cornet, Brett.

Also, ditto to what the others said about you conversing with us!

I be a fan too.