My 290 has 2 braces on the attachment tubing that both have a gap in the middle. Close inspection doesn't lead me to believe they are broken (both at the same time?) and the gap almost looks purposeful.

Can someone with a 290 confirm whether that gap should be there? I'm guessing not but it seems odd that two braces, without any indication of significant previous damage to the horn, would both be broken.

Attached a couple of pics for reference. In the second one, I circled the other brace with a gap.

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I don't recall Benge having 3 piece braces like that.

But to verify it is broken in the middle, try to run a thin piece of string or fishing line through the gap.

Some braces like that are 3-piece to allow for variances in distance between the tubing.

[quote="Bonearzt"]I don't recall Benge having 3 piece braces like that.

But to verify it is broken in the middle, try to run a thin piece of string or fishing line through the gap.

Some braces like that are 3-piece to allow for variances in distance between the tubing.
[/quote]

Thanks, I tried the string test. There seems to be something inside because string will not pass through. I understand the purpose with your explanation. I figured if it was there for a reason, it was probably to allow for some give between the tubes or something like that.

One has got a serious buzz going on when playing so there's a problem of some kind there. Since you said it might be a 3-piece brace, I'm assuming there is an internal part that must be loose or something. Taking it to my guy to look at but just wanted to try to satisfy myself about the possible nature of the issue.