Stofer Signature Line mouthpieces
Like most players, I have searched throughout my career for “tools of the trade” that help me achieve the best tone, articulation, and intonation available. My mouthpieces are turned in Jim Kelly’s precision machine shop in Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin, and differ from the original Conn-Geib mouthpieces only in that the shanks are marked as A (American standard size) or E (European size, slightly larger), and that the mouthpieces have a slight bevel back-cut at the end of the shank to enhance airflow and response. I have had a test-run of two other models, but those two projects are tabled for the time-being, needing more development and testing.
The Stofer-Geib mouthpiece is a classic design, inspired by a mouthpiece manufactured before WWII. The Geib model mouthpiece has a relatively thin rim at 7mm, a 33mm cup opening, and a cup depth of 34mm. This design, with a narrow rim, moderately large cup opening, and a moderately deep bowl-shape, has a sound quality and control that I’ve not found in any other mouthpiece. The rim is well-rounded, but there is enough inner “bite” to make attacks clean and secure. This is the smallest mouthpiece that I’ve ever used extensively on contrabass tuba, and a growing number of customers report using the mouthpiece on F- and Eb tubas. I find that I can play with a more relaxed embouchure, warm-up quicker and have better pitch accuracy, as well as getting that deep core sound I’ve always been striving for. And, going to a smaller mouthpiece did not hurt my low range, either. I have had more than one top orchestral player say that this mouthpiece has a unique sound, possessing a fundamental bass sound that others do not. This mouthpiece is now used by players of all levels, from high school students to a significant number of top orchestral musicians. Join the growing number of people that have discovered a mouthpiece that can help them go to the next level!
Stofer-Geib Signature Line Mouthpiece – with zippered carrying pouch
Silver-plated: $200.00
Gold-plated: $250.00
Kanstul Reproduction Bells
In collaboration with Kanstul, with major assistance from Thomas Treece and Robert Carpenter, I am now able to offer new reproduction upright bells for many of the recording basses of the past. Mr. Kanstul has taken the time to accurately reproduce original bell tenons for proper fit, and engineered bells that frequently are better than the originals. The Conn, King and Martin reproduction bells are made out of high-quality yellow brass. The York reproduction bells are more expensive to produce for a variety of reasons, which is why the price is higher. Bells made of York-type metal can be special-ordered for the Conn, Martin and King tubas, and the higher price will apply. Upon request, these bells can be engraved, normally for $250.00 extra, and optional finishes are available. Please call or e-mail for details on optional finishes.
Conn 2XJ Recording Bass Reproduction Bell has an approx. 21″ diameter, and provides a well-focused sound
Lacquer: $1,100.00
Bright silver Plate: $1,300.00
Martin Mammoth Reproduction Bells are slightly shorter and wider than the rare originals, but provides more projection and focus
Lacquer: $1,100.00
Bright silver Plate: $1,300.00
York Reproduction Bells are available to fit Grand Rapids detachable-bell instruments such as model 692, 712 and York Master model tubas
Lacquer: $1,300.00
Bright silver Plate: $1,500.00
York reproduction full-length bells are for the smaller model 33-sized instruments (also G-50, CB-50)
$1,300.00 (installation and finishing extra)
King Reproduction Bell is for the very large rotary-valve models, a rare bell for a quite rare instrument
Lacquer: $1,100.00
Bright silver Plate: $1,300.00
