Kelly MC vs Yamaha HR-35C4

The Yamaha HR-35C4 has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly MC features a deeper cup, the Yamaha HR-35C4 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Kelly MC
    • French Horn
    General
    Cup diameter16.76 mm / 0.6598 in
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter3.80 mm / 0.1496 in
    BackboreM
    Finish
    MaterialLexan polycarbonate
    Best suited for
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    📋All-purpose French horn
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Yamaha HR-35C4
      • French Horn
      Cup diameter18.08 mm / 0.7118 in
      Cup depthMedium
      Rim width
      Throat diameter3.98 mm / 0.1567 in
      BackboreStandard
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Yamaha HR-35C4 has a cup diameter of 18.08 mm / 0.7118 in compared to 16.76 mm / 0.6598 in on the Kelly MC — a difference of 1.32 mm / 0.0520 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly MC has a very deep 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.

      Throat Diameter

      The Yamaha HR-35C4 has a wider throat (3.98 mm / 0.1567 in vs 3.80 mm / 0.1496 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      Material

      The Kelly MC is described as Lexan polycarbonate, and the Yamaha HR-35C4 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.

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