Neoteck trombone grip

[ddsbstrb]

I have been dealing with a grip issue as I have gotten into my senior-years. On my Greenhoe-Bach 50B, I have used a Greenhoe hook for many years and it works great. I also own two Conn Bass Trombones, with one being an Elkhart 62H and the other is a 62H Gen. 2. After I started back playing again after a year COVID lay-off, I started to play, once again, on the Elkhart 62H as, it was lighter than my Greenhoe-Bach.

A friend of my recommended getting a Neotec Grip, which I did. I found I had a lot of difficulty getting the bell nut tight enough; as, the slide angle wanted to make a big change, as I was playing. Now, add a bass trombone cup or EZ Bucket, and it was impossible to play more than a couple of measures, then the bell starts unlocking from the slide. That made me get back to the Greenhoe-Bach rather quickly, as it never happened on that bass trombone.

When Wittenberg University closed down our Music Department and let the staff get a first shot at the instruments it owned, I got a good deal on their dependent, Conn 62H Gen.2. I found it super difficult to hold this one, without a grip; so, I bought a couple parts and pieces and put another Neotech on the new Conn. It has the same problem as my Elkhart 62H. With the Neotech on it, this one opens up as you play it. Most of the time it does it without a mute. Put a mute in it, and you can barely play two measures before it happens.

Anybody know if the Neotech grip is causing the problem. I seem to have the bell nut pretty tight. I have also cleaned the tenon on the slide and the interior of the bell receiver with rubbing alcohol. Still have the problem.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. This Conn 62H Gen.2 is a great playing bass trombone!

Thanks.

[Burgerbob]

I personally prefer other grip aids on bass. The neotech pushes your hand very far away from the slide brace and the 2nd valve paddle.

It may be worth trying other ones, like calders pips grip, leather specialties strap, axe handle, etc.