Bob Reeves 43.5/FE vs Giardinelli 17FL
The Bob Reeves 43.5/FE has a wider cup diameter, the Giardinelli 17FL features a deeper cup.
Mouthpiece A
Bob Reeves 43.5/FE
• Flugelhorn
Cup diameter17.26 mm / 0.6795 in
Cup depthMedium
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
vs
Mouthpiece B
Giardinelli 17FL
• Flugelhorn
Cup diameter15.00 mm / 0.5906 in
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Cup Diameter
The Bob Reeves 43.5/FE has a cup diameter of 17.26 mm / 0.6795 in compared to 15.00 mm / 0.5906 in on the Giardinelli 17FL — a difference of 2.26 mm / 0.0890 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Giardinelli 17FL has a very deep cup while the Bob Reeves 43.5/FE has a medium 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.