Giardinelli 12FL vs Schilke 14F4
The Schilke 14F4 has a wider cup diameter, the Giardinelli 12FL features a deeper cup.
Mouthpiece A
Giardinelli 12FL
• Flugelhorn
Cup diameter15.50 mm / 0.6102 in
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
vs
Mouthpiece B
Schilke 14F4
• Flugelhorn
Cup diameter17.09 mm / 0.6728 in
Cup depthMedium
Rim width—
Throat diameter3.86 mm / 0.1520 in
Backbore24 .1520"
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
High-volume projection — open throat for power
Cup Diameter
The Schilke 14F4 has a cup diameter of 17.09 mm / 0.6728 in compared to 15.50 mm / 0.6102 in on the Giardinelli 12FL — a difference of 1.59 mm / 0.0626 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Giardinelli 12FL has a very deep cup while the Schilke 14F4 has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.
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.