Giardinelli F16 vs Giardinelli S14
the Giardinelli S14 features a deeper cup, the Giardinelli S14 has a larger throat opening.
Mouthpiece A
Giardinelli F16
• French Horn
Cup diameter17.50 mm
Cup depthMedium
Rim width—
Throat diameter4.50 mm
Backbore.177"
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
High-volume projection — open throat for power
vs
Mouthpiece B
Giardinelli S14
• French Horn
Cup diameter17.50 mm
Cup depthDeep
Rim width—
Throat diameter4.60 mm
Backbore.182"
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
High-volume projection — open throat for power
Cup Diameter
Both mouthpieces have virtually identical cup diameters at 17.50 mm.
Cup Depth
The Giardinelli S14 has a deep cup while the Giardinelli F16 has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.
Throat Diameter
The Giardinelli S14 has a wider throat (4.60 mm vs 4.50 mm). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.
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.