Denis Wick 1 vs Denis Wick 3L
The Denis Wick 1 has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 3L has a larger throat opening.
Cup Diameter
The Denis Wick 1 has a cup diameter of 32.50 mm / 1.2795 in compared to 31.25 mm / 1.2303 in on the Denis Wick 3L — a difference of 1.25 mm / 0.0492 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 Denis Wick 3L has a wider throat (8.78 mm / 0.3457 in vs 8.43 mm / 0.3319 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.