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Mine just pushed in. Although I'd characterize it as a hole (round) vs a slot.

Yes, it was a tight fit and so I also use a slight bit of recorder creme on the o-rings. Perhaps this is a good time to ask if this is advisable?

That is undoubtedly a striking finish. Pictures?

Hi there,

Thanks for the reply, I will try adding a bit more force to see if it will pop in.

I went with the silver trim and plastic keys. I spoke with various people about having wooden keys, in the end I decided the wooden ebony keys would look quite strange against the deep black, so I opted for plastic. I had a feel of the ebony keys when I went to see a demo and I quite liked the feel of the plastic.

I sure did visit them, I was pretty much set on an Alpha before I went, I wanted to see what the Tau was like and actually hold an Alpha before I took the plunge. I personaly think the Alpha is awesome, it was alot of money well spent. Im looking forward to learning how to use it properly. I really believe that the plastic was the right choice for me now. No regrets what so ever. I also managed to pop the breath pipe in, however it took some force to actually get it to click in. How long have you had your Alpha?

Great to hear that you've taken the plunge on an Alpha - like you I went up to birmingham to try one out, while really being fairly set on the idea of buying one before I went :)

My breath pipe seems to fit reasonably snugly in the hole at the top of the Alpha - I often just twist it back and forth gently while pressing it in. Often the flange at the base of the breath pipe isn't _exactly_ flush with the top of the alpha, but this doesn't affect its operation. Like Mike I used a bit of recorder cream at first, but I'm beginning to think this isn't such a great idea based on the design of the pipe and the placement of the side holes.

I seem to have more trouble with the mouthpiece end of the pipe, although usually dabbing the o-rings with a wet finger seems to sort it. Maybe the same thing will help with the other end too.

After a few blockages in the side holes, I would advise that you don't leave the mouthpiece in place after playing for any length of time - take of the mouth piece and dry off the pipe.

Mine was a very tight fit. I was a bit nervous about it at first, but now I just give it a hard push to get it in and a strong pull to get it out. I suspect this will shorten the life of the 'o' rings somewhat. From what people say it seems there is some variation in the tightness of the fit from unit to unit. Regards, Nick