Marcinkiewicz 17 vs Yamaha HR-32D4

The Yamaha HR-32D4 has a wider cup diameter, the Marcinkiewicz 17 features a deeper cup, the Yamaha HR-32D4 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Marcinkiewicz 17
    • French Horn
    Cup diameter17.42 mm / 0.6858 in
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter4.39 mm / 0.1728 in
    Backbore
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Yamaha HR-32D4
      • French Horn
      Cup diameter17.48 mm / 0.6882 in
      Cup depthDeep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter4.50 mm / 0.1772 in
      BackboreSemi-narrow
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Yamaha HR-32D4 has a cup diameter of 17.48 mm / 0.6882 in compared to 17.42 mm / 0.6858 in on the Marcinkiewicz 17 — a difference of 0.06 mm / 0.0024 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Marcinkiewicz 17 has a very deep cup while the Yamaha HR-32D4 has a deep cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Yamaha HR-32D4 has a wider throat (4.50 mm / 0.1772 in vs 4.39 mm / 0.1728 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      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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