Giardinelli 12M vs Giardinelli 17C
The Giardinelli 12M has a wider cup diameter, the Giardinelli 17C features a deeper cup.
Mouthpiece A
Giardinelli 12M
• Cornet
Cup diameter15.50 mm / 0.6102 in
Cup depthMedium
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
vs
Mouthpiece B
Giardinelli 17C
• Cornet
Cup diameter15.00 mm / 0.5906 in
Cup depthDeep
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Cup Diameter
The Giardinelli 12M has a cup diameter of 15.50 mm / 0.6102 in compared to 15.00 mm / 0.5906 in on the Giardinelli 17C — a difference of 0.50 mm / 0.0197 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Giardinelli 17C has a deep cup while the Giardinelli 12M 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.