How to Purchase
SoftRing mutes are available at https://thebrassclub.com, or by contacting us directly. MSRP is $40USD plus shipping.
Contact
Please send us an email at softringmutes[at]gmail[dot]com.
How the SoftRing Works
To be honest, I don’t know exactly how the SoftRing works, but I’m satisfied with the fact that it does work and I enjoy using it in my own playing!
While at first glance it looks like the mute works by dampening the bell’s vibrations in much the same way one might dampen the strings of a guitar or piano, I don’t think this is the case (at least not to a significant degree). Rather, the SoftRing appears to work by interfering with the sound waves generated in the trumpet as they leave the bell. That is why the mute has a greater or lesser effect depending on how it is positioned on the bell.
However, I readily admit that my knowledge of acoustics, physics, and trumpet bell construction is very limited, so if anyone has a more informed idea of how this works feel free to let me know!
About Us
Michael Barth is a Canadian freelance trumpet player. Pre-pandemic, he was frequently found performing with orchestras and other ensembles in the Toronto area and throughout Ontario. His wife, Lisa Barth, is a high school music teacher, first-rate amateur trumpeter, and sewing machine virtuoso.