Kelly MDC vs Yamaha HR-BACON

The Yamaha HR-BACON has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly MDC features a deeper cup, the Yamaha HR-BACON has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Kelly MDC
    • French Horn
    General
    Cup diameter16.26 mm
    Cup depth
    Rim width
    Throat diameter4.06 mm
    BackboreL
    Finish
    MaterialLexan polycarbonate
    Best suited for
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    📋French horn medium-deep
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Yamaha HR-BACON
      • French Horn
      Cup diameter17.99 mm
      Cup depthShallow
      Rim width
      Throat diameter4.50 mm
      BackboreSemi-wide
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Yamaha HR-BACON has a cup diameter of 17.99 mm compared to 16.26 mm on the Kelly MDC — a difference of +1.73 mm. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly MDC has a — cup while the Yamaha HR-BACON has a shallow cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Yamaha HR-BACON has a wider throat (4.50 mm vs 4.06 mm). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      Material

      The Kelly MDC is described as Lexan polycarbonate, and the Yamaha HR-BACON 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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