Well, the teacher has tried many different mouthpieces, is a rather accomplished player in our area, and cuts quite a bit of slack for instruments for students. This one he is thoroughly disgusted with. I should know model number, serial, etc. by this evening.

I'm not against buying a Chinese made instrument, if quality is more reliable than what can be expected from vintage instruments. I've experienced this in guitar shopping. While it pains me, it is also a reality. Quick, everyone look at your mobile phone country of manufacture.

-Scott