Posted by Sean Chisham on February 23, 1999 at 14:58:30:
In Reply to: What about Schilke Helleberg II ? posted by Tim on February 19, 1999 at 16:14:59:
I believe this is because Shilke considers it a custom made mouthpiece. It came to be after many weeks of trial and error with Rex Martin as the Guinea pig. Mr. Martin was subbing a great deal with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at the time and would use the latest encantation of the Helleburg II for performances while Scott Laskey, mouthpiece guru, would listen and take notes.
The resulting mouthpiece is the Shilke Helleburg II. I have to say that they mouthpiece is one of the best out there, in my opinion. It seems to be the "perfect fit" for the Yorkbrunner tubas. I assume the cost is a matter of supply and demand coupled with the research and tooling costs of production. Shilke Instruments would be the best place to ask though.
sean