VMT, GMT & Mpc Gap Shims

Today, I will offer a brief overview of the latest innovations I have been developing between client trumpet orders. All of the following Gap Solutions discussed are modular in design and you will see photos of various possible configurations. The modular design is to simplify the logistics of working with these valuable tools while storing mouthpiece shims.

VMT = Venturi Measurement Tool

VMT with Gap Shim Kit attached

1) Measure Venturi
2) Installation of Mouthpiece Shims
3) Removal of Mouthpiece Shims
4) Storage of Mouthpiece Shims
5) Modular design attaches to GMT

The VMT was designed to work in conjunction with the Mouthpiece Gap Shim Kit. Measuring the venturi (leadpipe inside diameter) of each of your instruments will aid in understanding airflow and in choosing the appropriate shims required to adjust your mouthpiece gap. The VMT allows you to store two full sets of Mouthpiece Gap Shims at the base and/or add on the GMT.

Looking at the photo above, the very left end of the tool offers a ridge to remove shims. The six bands just to the right are precision machined to the sizes .337, .340, .343, .346, .349 and .352 inches in diameter. By marking these bands with a marker and inserting into your mouthpiece receiver, you may easily determine your venturi size within three thousandths of an inch. These six bands also act as the shim kit installation tool. Slide a shim onto the band and gently press into your receiver.

There will be an ultra-precision venturi tool available in the future for those of you eager to know every last detail of your horn.

The VMT is available for purchase in our online store HERE

Order the entire Gap Solution Set HERE

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GMT = Gap Measurement Tool

Gap Measurement Tool

1) Measure Gap of Trumpet/Mouthpiece
2) Keep record of FOUR Mouthpieces
3) Keep record of FOUR Trumpets
4) Storage of Mouthpiece Shims
5) Modular design attaches to VMT

The GMT was designed to solve a major problem in the world of trumpet playing, determining mouthpiece gap. I have written extensively on this subject and encourage you to read or review my previous entries to better understand how and why mouthpiece gap is a serious matter to consider.

Measuring Mouthpiece Gap on the GMT is very simple;

1) Insert into your receiver and etch a small mark into the side of slot #1 with a thin object or fine tip marker.

2) Next, insert your mouthpiece into the receiver and mark exactly where it meets the end of the receiver.

3) Hold the mouthpiece against the GMT from the opposing direction and etch a second small mark into the side of slot #1.

4) Each line on the GMT represents exactly .040 inches. Count the lines between your two marks and multiply by .040 to determine your gap.

5) Repeat this process with each of your trumpets & mouthpieces and easily keep track of up to FOUR of each as there are four numbered slots on the GMT.

Optimum gap range is often .06 to .100, but this number varies by your personal playing preferences. Knowing your preferred gap setting on your favorite horn is often the key to adjusting all of your other horns to feel similar and more consistent.

The GMT is available for purchase in our online store HERE

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Mouthpiece Gap Shim Kit

Mouthpiece Gap Shim Kit

1) Easily identify 5 standard shims
2) Safely store up to 10 shims
3) Modular design attaches to VMT & GMT both individually and together

Reducing the Gap between the mouthpiece and leadpipe will likely improve the playability of your current setup.

1) Measure your current gap with the Gap Measurement Tool (GMT)

2) Determine your target gap - usually .060 to .100 inches, see previous blog entries HERE

3) If gap is larger than .100, insert appropriate gap shim inside the receiver with the Venturi Measurement Tool (VMT)

4) If gap is very small and you would like to increase slotting, reduce length of mouthpiece shank as described here

The Mouthpiece Gap Shim Kit is available for purchase in our online store HERE

Order the entire Gap Solution Set HERE

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Previous discussions concerning Mouthpiece Gap and Venturi

Achieving Optimum Mouthpiece Gap - Part I

Achieving Optimum Mouthpiece Gap - Part II

Harrelson Shim Kit to reduce gap: A Survey of Thirty-one Mouthpieces

Photos of various Gap Solution configurations