Denis Wick RW3 vs Kelly 3C

The Kelly 3C has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick RW3 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Denis Wick RW3
    • 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 RW3 — 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 RW3 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 RW3 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.

      Open in interactive tool + Add third mouthpiece Denis Wick RW3 details Kelly 3C details Denis Wick RW3 equivalents Kelly 3C equivalents