Kelly 31 vs Yamaha HR-35C4
The Yamaha HR-35C4 has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly 31 features a deeper cup, the Yamaha HR-35C4 has a larger throat opening.
How deep the cup is, from shallow (brighter, easier high register) to deep (darker, fuller sound).
Mouthpiece A
Kelly 31
• French Horn
GeneralCup depth
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
Yamaha HR-35C4
• French Horn
Cup depthMedium
Best suited for
High-volume projection — open throat for power
Cup Depth
The Kelly 31 has a — cup while the Yamaha HR-35C4 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.