Since I first purchased my Jupiter 846RL six months ago, the valves have been getting increasingly more sluggish. It's at the point now where I don't even consider it to be playable. Even with daily oiling (multiple times per day!) I can only get a few minutes of playing out of it before at least one of the valves refuses to come up.

I've tried a total of four different valve oils, including Jupiter's own valve oil (it came with the horn), Al Cass, Red Pro-Oil, and Hybrid 141-A7 Pro-Oil. Before each oil test, I carefully clean the horn. After cleaning, the valves work fine for the first day or two, but after a week, they're back to where they started.

Over the years I've owned and rented/borrowed at least 10 horns. I've never come across a horn with such lousy valves, especially nothing brand new like this flugelhorn. Since this horn has gotten a lot of good reviews, I'm guessing I just got a lemon. I really don't know how else to explain it.

I bought the horn from Music123, so I contacted them to see if they'd help me get a working horn. Even though I failed to fill out Jupiter's warranty card during the first 30 days (required terms), Music123 said I could send the horn to them and they'd forward it on to Jupiter for repairs. So, last night I shipped the horn back.

I fear that the repair shop will oil the valves, find that they move, and then send it right back. Naturally, I've sent a detailed note along with the horn, but the pessimist in me has its doubts...

Update 4/3/05: It's back!

Updated 12/5/05: It's gone...