Kelly 3C vs Kelly 4B-UK

The Kelly 3C has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly 4B-UK features a deeper cup, the Kelly 4B-UK has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Kelly 3C
    • Cornet
    General
    Cup diameter17.02 mm / 0.6701 in
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter4.06 mm / 0.1598 in
    BackboreL
    Finish
    MaterialLexan polycarbonate
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    📋All-purpose mid-range
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Kelly 4B-UK
      • Cornet
      Orchestral
      Cup diameter16.51 mm / 0.6500 in
      Cup depth
      Rim width
      Throat diameter4.37 mm / 0.1720 in
      BackboreXL
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
      📋Professional cornet; British brass band

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly 3C has a cup diameter of 17.02 mm / 0.6701 in compared to 16.51 mm / 0.6500 in on the Kelly 4B-UK — a difference of 0.51 mm / 0.0201 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly 4B-UK has a — cup while the Kelly 3C has a very deep cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Kelly 4B-UK has a wider throat (4.37 mm / 0.1720 in vs 4.06 mm / 0.1598 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      Material

      Both mouthpieces share the same listed material (Lexan polycarbonate).

      Which is better?

      The Kelly 3C is designed for general playing, while the Kelly 4B-UK targets orchestral use. Your best choice depends on your musical context.

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