Synthetic vs Traditional oils
Which is better? Well, that depends.

When it comes to valve and slide oils for brass instruments, synthetic and traditional options each have their perks. Synthetic oils offer longer-lasting lubrication and resist gumming, making them ideal for high-performance players and those that don't like the traditional petroleum based oil smell. On the other hand, traditional oils tend to be cost-effective and widely compatible, providing a reliable choice for everyday maintenance. I generally recommend trying synthetic oils for their superior longevity, but ultimately, the best choice depends on your playing style and needs.
If you are interested in trying a synthetic oil, my personal favorite is Hetman's oil. They offer a wide variety of oils in different viscosities for any situation. They also have slide oils (and greases) that are simply the best I've found.
http://www.hetman.com/products.html
Let me know if you are interested in purchasing or have questions about which of their products might be best for you, but for a valved instrument, you can't go wrong with Hetman #2 oil for valves, #4 light slide oil for 1st & 3rd slides, and #7 slide grease for tuning slides!


