Author: Bobo
Date: 2012-02-10 14:49
I use the humistats also, and the spongy filter does get discolored (mildew/mold), though I haven't seen that this has had any impact on their function. Having said that, I have serious doubts about how much they help. I keep a dial hygrometer in my oboe case with the humistat propped up next to it, both in the reed case slot (I keep the reed case in an outside pocket of the computer bag I use to carry my oboe case etc. around - better for handy access to wet / change / work on reeds). The hygrometer moves from about 60% in the summer heat to about 40% in the dead of winter dry radiator heat. I think the humistat is moving the needle maybe 5%! I still use it, but may try out the water pillows. My only concern is that from what I can see online, tobacco does best at 60%+ humidity and some advertise that the pillows keep the humidor at 70%. I think too much moisture is not so great either (for the springs and corks), but still worth a try with a hygrometer.
I also wonder whether a humistat or pillow in the reed slot actually has any effect at all on the adjacent oboe joints, but that's another issue. The dampits that go inside the joints would seem more effective, but I've never been comfortable with leaving anything wet inside my oboe.
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