Rick Todd, one of the biggest proponents of the 8D West Coast sound is someone I was lucky enough to study with for 9 months when my college's staff horn teacher retired. I was a composition student, so studying more for my required instrumentals rather than as a performer, so unfortunately did not really put what he was saying to practice until much later. UGH! Anyways, he is now playing a Hans Hoyer 6801 or 2. I've heard him play his great 8ds and this sounds so similar that I think they will fill that niche, they already have for Rick. I personally like the tone better than the 8d.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCpobIzJyKg
Speaking of which, I have a screwbell 8d on consignment in Oakland for a reasonable price. It is original, with about 3 years of very light play.
