Bach 8½A vs Giardinelli 3S
The Giardinelli 3S has a wider cup diameter, the Bach 8½A features a deeper cup.
Mouthpiece A
Bach 8½A
• Cornet
Cup diameter16.10 mm / 0.6339 in
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width—
Throat diameter3.66 mm / 0.1441 in
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
vs
Mouthpiece B
Giardinelli 3S
• Cornet
Cup diameter17.00 mm / 0.6693 in
Cup depthShallow
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Cup Diameter
The Giardinelli 3S has a cup diameter of 17.00 mm / 0.6693 in compared to 16.10 mm / 0.6339 in on the Bach 8½A — a difference of 0.90 mm / 0.0354 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Bach 8½A has a very deep cup while the Giardinelli 3S has a shallow cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.
Which is better?
Neither mouthpiece clearly dominates the other — the right choice depends on your embouchure, playing style, and the sound you're after. Try both if possible.