Bob Reeves 43N/B/X vs Giardinelli 17S
The Bob Reeves 43N/B/X has a wider cup diameter, the Bob Reeves 43N/B/X features a deeper cup.
Mouthpiece A
Bob Reeves 43N/B/X
• Cornet
Cup diameter17.07 mm / 0.6720 in
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
BackboreX
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
vs
Mouthpiece B
Giardinelli 17S
• Cornet
Cup diameter15.00 mm / 0.5906 in
Cup depthShallow
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
Lead / commercial — shallow cup for brightness and range
Cup Diameter
The Bob Reeves 43N/B/X has a cup diameter of 17.07 mm / 0.6720 in compared to 15.00 mm / 0.5906 in on the Giardinelli 17S — a difference of 2.07 mm / 0.0815 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Bob Reeves 43N/B/X has a very deep cup while the Giardinelli 17S 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.