Ben's Practice Mute vs. Rejano vs. Best Brass

[Samdance]

I am a frequent user of practice mutes, especially since my practice times can be a bit unconventional. Over the years, I've tried quite a few, but I finally settled on the Best Brass. It's incredibly light, fits perfectly in my bell when it's in the case, and it's durable.

While I've had some complaints with practice mutes in the past—mostly regarding pitch, size, and weight—I've recently had the pleasure of using Ben Van Dijk’s practice mute for the past month, and I have to say, I’m thoroughly impressed! It comes beautifully packaged, which is always a nice touch.

The blow of this mute is a delight! I like it much better than both the Rejano and the Best Brass. It has a great response and stays much more in tune than either of them.

In terms of weight and size, it's right in the sweet spot! It doesn’t fit as deep in the bell as the Best Brass does, but it doesn’t stick out quite as much as the Rejano. The Best Brass is so light that you hardly feel it, whereas the Rejano is a bit heavier than Ben’s, but not by much.

Ben’s mute is easier to insert and remove. Its smaller diameter makes it extremely convenient, similar to the Best Brass, but far superior to the Rejano. Plus, I’ve never had a problem with it falling out, while the Rejano can be a little tricky, especially when the weather gets cool. The Best Brass holds securely as well.

I usually leave Ben’s mute in my practice area and take the Best Brass with me to gigs, but honestly, you could leave it in your bell if your case allows.

According to my wife (who isn’t a musician but lets me know when I am not making the changes), the Best Brass is the loudest of the three, with Ben’s and the Rejano being pretty much neck and neck.

For some extra context, I took some DB readings while playing a solid forte on low Bb, standing about a meter away from the microphone in my studio (which measures about 20’ by 25’):
- Best Brass: 74.2 dB(A)
- Ben’s Practice Mute: 64.4 dB(A)
- Rejano: 63.3 dB(A)

When it comes to everyday use, I genuinely prefer Ben’s mute! It plays beautifully, stays in tune (which is a big win for me), and is just the right weight.

If you’re on the lookout for a practice mute, I can’t recommend picking one up enough! Thank you so much, Ben! Your mute has made my practice time more enjoyable!

[BPBasso]

Curious. Did you use these with tenor or bass?

[Samdance]

Bass Trombone, I am ordering one for tenor.

M