Giardinelli C10 vs Kelly MC

The Giardinelli C10 has a wider cup diameter, the Giardinelli C10 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Giardinelli C10
    • French Horn
    Cup diameter17.50 mm / 0.6890 in
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter4.90 mm / 0.1929 in
    Backbore.193"
    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 Giardinelli C10 has a cup diameter of 17.50 mm / 0.6890 in compared to 16.76 mm / 0.6598 in on the Kelly MC — a difference of 0.74 mm / 0.0291 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 Giardinelli C10 has a wider throat (4.90 mm / 0.1929 in vs 3.80 mm / 0.1496 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      Material

      The Giardinelli C10 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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