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.
Mouthpiece A
Denis Wick 1
• Tuba
Cup diameter32.50 mm
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width7.48 mm
Throat diameter8.43 mm
Backboreopen
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
High-volume projection — open throat for power
vs
Mouthpiece B
Denis Wick 3L
• Tuba
Cup diameter31.25 mm
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width8.11 mm
Throat diameter8.78 mm
Backborelarge barrel
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
High-volume projection — open throat for power
Cup Diameter
The Denis Wick 1 has a cup diameter of 32.50 mm compared to 31.25 mm on the Denis Wick 3L — a difference of +1.25 mm. 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 vs 8.43 mm). 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.