diaphram call question

[Dbax129]

So I am new to calling, and my only reed seems loose now, after practicing a couple of times.  Its a phelps call.  I think when I'm trying to situate it I'm pulling on the latex part with my tonge.  Anybody else ever stretch that part out on accident. Does it matter? It does seem harder to hit the high notes...

[JPhelps]

The calls will all stretch or "break in" a small amount.  It should be subtle enough that it isn't noticeable.  What call is it?

If it has stretched to where it is harder to hit the high notes there may be an issue.  If so let me know and I will get you taken care of.

[elk247]

I can only speak for elk diaphram calls. Ive used them for over 15 years. I generally replace them when they stretch out. I can usually get a year maybe two out of em. You might want to send phelps a pm and ask what he thinks? Ive never tried phelps calls but I do plan trying one out soon.

[elk247]

Haha, he beat me to it! There ya go. Just curious which call is it?

[Dbax129]

Satellite seducer.  So I may just be too new at this to know what I'm doing.  If you normally get a year out of one, and a little break in is normal, I'd rather assume I just need to practice more! :-). Thanks to both of you. Fast like a ninja Jason!  I'll post here again or send you a message if I end up thinking its broken or something.  Every once in a while I think I've nailed it, then I swatch a video again and realize I still suck.  O well, I'll get it eventually!

[elk247]

Normally for me a loose or stretched call makes it tough to do the lower volume growl or beginning of the bugle. You gotta really scream to hit the high notes. Chuckles and grunts are more dufficult. Keep at it, nothing better then having both hands on the bow and being able to freeze a bull for the money shot. If you havent already check out Corey Jacobsen and Joel Turner videos. Both men very accomplished elk calling champs, multiple times.

[RadSav]

A lot of times you will lose that easy high pitch rather quickly if your just starting out and a little timid with the call.  As soon as it stretches that first little bit puffs of air from your throat and the top of your lungs are not going to do it.  You need to be aggressive with your diaphragm muscles.  That's where you get your power, control and volume from.

It's hard to explain how to properly use your bodies internal diaphragm in writing.  Probably the reason few write about it.  But I'll give it a shot. 

Many neophytes try using a diaphragm call with the same breath control as you would use in a movie theater trying to get the attention of someone a few seats away.  In that case the words, "Hey, over here." are barely more than a whisper as to not disturb others.  They have no deflection, no personality and little control over the monotone verbage.  Meanwhile the experienced caller uses a diaphragm call with the same breath tone as a mad father trying to get the attention of his misfit kids.  In this case the words, "Hey! Over here!" are sharp, with much deflection, no loss of personality and anything but monotone.  You need that type of tight stomach muscle and forceful breath control to master the elk diaphragm call.  Even when calling quietly.

So don't let the call intimidate you.  Take full control of the call and force it into submission.  Master the loud sounds first.  Work on hitting all the tones with volume.  Then once you feel comfortable in your call linguistics start pulling back on the volume while still maintaining the same strong stomach/diaphragm muscles as you have been using.  Just with a little more finesse.  When using the call correctly the tongue actually does very little.  When not using the correct breath control the tongue does too much and you lose your linquistical endowment.

[wildmanoutdoors]

If its stretched too much its probably because your pushing up on it to much with your tounge. Rad has a great description, but mouth reeds take time and patience. Not every one works for every person. Dont be afraid to experiment with other calls.
I have a couple I love and always take, and a pile that stay home and never get used. Listen to cd's on the way to and from work and practice, practice, practice.

[JPhelps]

I don't have my call order records available right now, but did you order any other diaphragms?  I was curious if you were having success with any others.  Does the frame fit right inside the pallete?

I'll try to explain how to get to the high notes.  There are two ways to make or get Into the high notes.  You can either apply more air with the same tongue pressure (makes the latex vibrate at a higher rate) or you can add more pressure with your tongue (tightening the latex). 

When applying more air you get more volume out of the call and when adding more pressure the tone becomes higher with no added volume.  I believe most people use a combination of the two.

When teaching new callers to call I always tell them to think of pushing the air straight out of their mouth not up in to the latex.  Also before you call make sure your tongue Is tucked behind your bottom teeth and that you have full and even contact between your tongue and with the reed.  Set the reed as far forward in your palette as possible.  Like Rad said make sure to use your diaphragm (ab and chest) to provide the air.

[RadSav]

When teaching new callers to call I always tell them to think of pushing the air straight out of their mouth not up in to the latex. 

That's a great point!!!  I have never taught that, but I will from now on