Denis Wick 3 vs Kelly 3C

The Kelly 3C has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 3 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Denis Wick 3
    • Cornet
    Cup diameter16.75 mm / 0.6594 in
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width5.05 mm / 0.1988 in
    Throat diameter4.57 mm / 0.1799 in
    Backboreopen
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Kelly 3C
      • Cornet
      General
      Cup diameter17.02 mm / 0.6701 in
      Cup depthVery deep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter4.06 mm / 0.1598 in
      BackboreL
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
      📋All-purpose mid-range

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly 3C has a cup diameter of 17.02 mm / 0.6701 in compared to 16.75 mm / 0.6594 in on the Denis Wick 3 — a difference of 0.27 mm / 0.0106 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 3 has a wider throat (4.57 mm / 0.1799 in vs 4.06 mm / 0.1598 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      Material

      The Denis Wick 3 is described as unspecified, and the Kelly 3C as Lexan polycarbonate. Material affects mass, warmth, and how quickly the piece responds.

      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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