Giardinelli Sym. T vs Kelly SKY-SS

The Giardinelli Sym. T has a wider cup diameter, the Giardinelli Sym. T features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Giardinelli Sym. T
    • Trombone
    Cup diameter25.80 mm / 1.0157 in
    Cup depthDeep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter6.40 mm / 0.2520 in
    Backbore1/4 (.250)"
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Kelly SKY-SS
      • Trombone
      Lead
      Cup diameter24.64 mm / 0.9701 in
      Cup depthShallow
      Rim width
      Throat diameter
      BackboreS
      Finish
      Material316 Surgical Stainless Steel
      Best suited for
      📋Professional lead trombone

      Cup Diameter

      The Giardinelli Sym. T has a cup diameter of 25.80 mm / 1.0157 in compared to 24.64 mm / 0.9701 in on the Kelly SKY-SS — a difference of 1.16 mm / 0.0457 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Giardinelli Sym. T has a deep cup while the Kelly SKY-SS has a shallow cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Material

      The Giardinelli Sym. T is described as unspecified, and the Kelly SKY-SS as 316 Surgical Stainless Steel. 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 Giardinelli Sym. T details Kelly SKY-SS details Giardinelli Sym. T equivalents Kelly SKY-SS equivalents