Curry 132D vs Giardinelli Helleberg

The Curry 132D has a wider cup diameter, the Giardinelli Helleberg has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Curry 132D
    • Tuba
    Cup diameter33.53 mm / 1.3200 in
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter8.23 mm / 0.3240 in
    Backbore
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Giardinelli Helleberg
      • Tuba
      Cup diameter33.30 mm / 1.3110 in
      Cup depthVery deep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter8.35 mm / 0.3287 in
      Backbore21/64"
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Curry 132D has a cup diameter of 33.53 mm / 1.3200 in compared to 33.30 mm / 1.3110 in on the Giardinelli Helleberg — a difference of 0.23 mm / 0.0090 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      Both mouthpieces share a very deep cup depth, so the sound character from depth alone will be very similar.

      Throat Diameter

      The Giardinelli Helleberg has a wider throat (8.35 mm / 0.3287 in vs 8.23 mm / 0.3240 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      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.

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