Does anyone NOT like Amados?

NTlead · Posted: Mon Dec 08, 2003 5:00 pm Post subject:

Any one played the saturn water keys? They claim that they make the trumpet sound better. But Ive got my doubts.

TimBrown · Posted: Mon Dec 08, 2003 5:59 pm Post subject:

Ok, I could be wrong but I fail to see how they could be making a claim that is very factual....! No matter what you have, it's the same basic thing; a hole in the tubing that has a plug. The only difference is the "unplugging" mechanism. Sounds a little far out to me...

Tim
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cujazztrpt · Posted: Tue Dec 09, 2003 9:09 am Post subject:

I don't mind them but I would rather have the standard!! you cant go wrong with it.
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ZeroMan · Heavyweight Member Joined: 21 Jul 2002 Posts: 1112

I have to come feel that the Amado water key's bad rap is fairly earned. Amados are yet another finicky mechanical device to deal with on an instrument, and who needs the extra grief? Also, many people just don't know how to properly drain water out of an instrument with properly functioning Amado water keys- it's just counterintuitive compared to draining water on an instrument with standard water keys.

I prefer standard water keys even though I'm making my comeback on an instrument which has Amado water keys. I remember not having to occasionally oil the standard water keys on my first trumpet, and being able to make spit draining a muscular breathing exercise.

The only quality I would give to an Amado waterkey over its standard counterpart is cosmetic, and that is strictly my opinion. I happen to think Amados look better. Neither water key type does anything for the sound, and in the end, that is what counts the most.

getzenguy700 · Posted: Tue Dec 09, 2003 11:44 am Post subject:

I personally don't notice a difference in the draining efficiency of the Amados vs. the standard lever. I do however like the Amado keys because i feel they just look better. I feel that something made of metal should be COMPLETELY made of metal (the pads on levers).

ajomdahl · Posted: Tue Dec 09, 2003 11:48 am Post subject:

I've always used lever type waterkeys until I bought a Kanstul flugel about 8 yrs ago. Recently, I had Roy Lawler build me a horn with amado keys and what I've found is that they are more efficient. Now, the flugel keys tend to stick because I don't play that horn as much. Oiling the keys and oiling down the leadpipe as a lubricating regimen is a good way to minimize any sticking. What I have discovered is that water streams out of the horn (rather than being deflected by the lever keys) so I need to use layers of paper towels rather than just a couple. Being aware of horn angle and blowing easily are important considerations. All in all, I'm in support of the Amados. Andy~

trumpetmike · Posted: Tue Dec 09, 2003 1:54 pm Post subject:

Not a fan.

Should a lever water key go wrong, you can wrap an elastic band round it as a temporary measure, or tie it shut. If an Amado gets stuck in the open position you can really be in trouble, especially if you haven't packed the all important paperclip, just in case!

As for the speed of emptying and amount it lets out in go, I have not had too much of a problem. The levers seem slightly easier blowing to empty, but it is fairly marginal.

I have to admit, I also am not a great fan of the look. They never quite (for me) look like they belong on a trumpet. Maybe it's year's of levers, but I just don't like the way they look.

I have them on my flugel and would prefer levers.

Tootsall · Heavyweight Member Joined: 05 May 2002 Posts: 2952

Why not read up on what Denis Wedgwood has to say about the Saturn water key? You can find it at:
http://www.deniswedgwood.com/saturn.htm

(thereby also providing a link to Denis's homepage!)

Not for 'em, not against 'em; but they do seem to have potential for being an improvement. I'd have to try 'em first.

trumpet356 · Posted: Sat Dec 20, 2003 5:01 pm Post subject:

BDsop96 · Regular Member Joined: 16 Dec 2003 Posts: 11

It depends on the horn, mostly the key of the horn, weather or not you will notice any playability changes. It isn't going to change the "sound" of the horn but could affect intonation; most commonly in C trumpets. Please see the link below for the basic "skinny" on these little gems (scroll to the bottom of the page to read about the Amado key).
http://www.aminortuneup.com/custom.htm

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[ This Message was edited by: BDsop96 on 2003-12-20 22:22 ]

plankowner110 · Heavyweight Member Joined: 12 Jun 2003 Posts: 3620

I don't care for Amado water keys. Interesting design, but so was the Edsel.