I didn't find an older post regarding 4-valve trumpets, so figured it was ok to start a new one. Please forgive me if I missed it.

I've been researching 4-valve trumpets for some time now and have come to the conclusion that for the most part, it seems like most manufacturers just add one more valve to the trumpet as more of an afterthought than really giving it a thorough and comprehensive technical study it deserves to cater to those wanting the extra valve just to increase their lower range.

I've been looking closely at Stomvi's line of Titan 4-valve instruments and it appears that they have given a lot of thought to it's architecture compared to the competition. I'm wondering has anyone has had the opportunity to play 4-valve Stomvi trumpets (or other 4-valve trumpets in general) and what their thoughts are. Do you see advantages just beyond extending the lower range? Is is a struggle to keep in tune in the various registers? etc.

@barliman2001

Interesting, thank you for that insight. I'll keep an eye on that.

@Trumpetb said in Carol Brass Sticky Valves:

by ROWUK DR GO flugelgirl and the other knowledgeable members are the best

Good day everyone,

I see this is an older post (2 years ago) but it's "new" to me. I too, am having an issue with a new boutique trumpet that was built with the famous German MAW valves. When I'm playing quickly, there's no problem. It's only when I'm playing ballads/slow passages where the valve (primarily 2nd valve) will stick very close to the top of the upswing if I've had it pressed down for more than 2-3 seconds.

I cleaned the instrument myself with no luck. I sent it back to the dealer who had their repair tech look it over and clean it. Per the dealer, it is attributed to my technique as they said they had no problems with it. I've played professionally 35 years ago in the Marines and decided to pick up the trumpet again as I get closer to retirement. I finally sent it to JLandress to look at. Josh said that he felt that the valves were "not great" and he burnished the inside of the casings and changed out the springs. I noticed the valves became much more reponsive and quick, but the hesitation at the very top of the upswing still occurs rarely. That rarety just destroys your performance and enjoyment.

At this point, I'm breaking it in and "running" the valves to see if they will finally get the right wear to make it operate smooth as silk. As for my technique, I am doubtful of that as I own 2 new Martin Boehme's (tumultous and schnaffhorn) with MAW valves... they are silky smooth just like my new Edwards X-13 from Getzen. No problems with those. I also have a new Schilke HCL2 that is not quite as good as the other 3, but still no sticking. I also have several vintage cornets that work wonderfully.

Cheers!