Denis Wick 4 vs Kelly MC

The Denis Wick 4 has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 4 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Denis Wick 4
    • French Horn
    Cup diameter18.00 mm / 0.7087 in
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width5.00 mm / 0.1969 in
    Throat diameter4.70 mm / 0.1850 in
    Backborebarrel
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Kelly MC
      • French Horn
      General
      Cup diameter16.76 mm / 0.6598 in
      Cup depthVery deep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter3.80 mm / 0.1496 in
      BackboreM
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
      📋All-purpose French horn

      Cup Diameter

      The Denis Wick 4 has a cup diameter of 18.00 mm / 0.7087 in compared to 16.76 mm / 0.6598 in on the Kelly MC — a difference of 1.24 mm / 0.0488 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 4 has a wider throat (4.70 mm / 0.1850 in vs 3.80 mm / 0.1496 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      Material

      The Denis Wick 4 is described as unspecified, and the Kelly MC 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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