Jim, I'm so glad that you're on this; frankly, I'm glad you're on the planet. But on the subject--people, trust your local horn mechanic. I've been in the trade for 31 years. I have an accumulation of these older Conn things. I sell them cheap, give them to good customers. If your local guy doesn't have them, show him some love and have him get them: Music Medic, Kraus Musical Products, Jeff Smith, etc. Leave the instant-gratification horse in the barn. By wanting to do business with the local guy, he'll want to do business FOR you. Yeah, I know, the local guy is really in the aluminum siding business and just does horns when the weather is bad. And I would consider having Steve Goodsen work on my saxes if his shop were down the street. But he's not, and he's not likely on your street, either. But start with the local guy. Wow! What a rant!! Lefty