Kelly 31 vs Schilke 29

the Kelly 31 features a deeper cup, the Kelly 31 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Kelly 31
    • French Horn
    General
    Cup diameter17.53 mm
    Cup depth
    Rim width
    Throat diameter3.80 mm
    BackboreM
    Finish
    MaterialLexan polycarbonate
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    📋French horn deep cup
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Schilke 29
      • French Horn
      Cup diameter17.53 mm
      Cup depthShallow
      Rim width
      Throat diameter3.60 mm
      Backbore17
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      Screamer / high notes — tight throat with shallow cup

      Cup Diameter

      Both mouthpieces have virtually identical cup diameters at 17.53 mm.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly 31 has a — cup while the Schilke 29 has a shallow cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Kelly 31 has a wider throat (3.80 mm vs 3.60 mm). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      Material

      The Kelly 31 is described as Lexan polycarbonate, and the Schilke 29 as unspecified. 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 Kelly 31 details Schilke 29 details Kelly 31 equivalents Schilke 29 equivalents