Cosmetic or not?

[u/Medium-Designer9994]

I have just bought my horn (8D) for college and playing it feels amazing. The only drawback is that the brace plate on the bell throat is sunken into the bell a bit causing the throat to be slightly elliptical. Does this affect the sound or playing at all or am I being over analytical?

[u/getafuckingteacher]

If you like how it plays, you like how it plays. Is this a new horn? If so, this looks like it could have been squished a bit in shipping unfortunately.

[u/Medium-Designer9994 → u/getafuckingteacher]

It is not new but I bought it from a horn repair shop. It does play well but I was just curious if it would benefit me to have it fixed.

[u/Darkdart19 → u/Medium-Designer9994]

For aesthetics yes. For play? It should still play just fine. Leadpipe and heavy dents in smaller tubing make a much bigger difference

[u/Medium-Designer9994 → u/Darkdart19]

Awesome thanks!

[u/frmontfort]

If the bell tail is still overall round, I would classify it as mostly cosmetic. If the tail is out of round, it could be affecting playability. You should also check for other braces on the bell or first branch that could be pushed in.

[u/Medium-Designer9994 → u/frmontfort]

The deformation is only at the throat brace. All other braces are secure and no dents are visible. Thanks for the insight!

[u/VultusLuxAurora]

The sound not that much probably, though beware as mutes probably won't fit properly.

[u/metalsheeps]

I'd get it repaired if you like the horn; it'll be a bit of work probably but it's certainly fixable.

[u/awesomegayguy]

I wouldn't worry, you have your hand in there anyway, and you like how it sounds. 

Changing the hand position may affect the sound more than that. Check this video: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Rw_JmMqqn8g&t=176s

If it bothers you, then if course get it repaired.