Posted by Mike on January 16, 2001 at 19:49:31:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Water-logged tuba posted by Chuck(G) on January 16, 2001 at 12:45:12:
I don't know if anyone is still reading down this far, but here goes...
I believe the stuff in the leadpipe up to the main tuning slide is mostly spit, anything that collects in the crooks and uphill bends of tuning slides and branches is most likely condensation. The further away from the mouthpiece, the cooler the metal is and therefore more condensation when your warm air flows through it. Besides, if it takes five minutes or more of fortissimo playing to blow cigar smoke (not recommended) all the way through, how difficult must it be to get a big drop of spit to roll uphill and get lodged in an otherwise unaccessible crook or bend?
Good point about the tongueing, too, that's definately a factor.
A final test, run hot water through your mpc, until it's nice and hot. Now buzz for a while and watch the spit drop out the end! It's not condensation if the metal is warmer than your air (brass stays warm for a while, too) it's definately spit!
my $.02
MF