Giardinelli F16 vs Schilke 31C2
The Giardinelli F16 has a wider cup diameter, the Giardinelli F16 has a larger throat opening.
Mouthpiece A
Giardinelli F16
• French Horn
Cup diameter17.50 mm
Cup depthMedium
Rim width—
Throat diameter4.50 mm
Backbore.177"
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
High-volume projection — open throat for power
vs
Mouthpiece B
Schilke 31C2
• French Horn
Cup diameter17.43 mm
Cup depthMedium
Rim width—
Throat diameter3.57 mm
Backbore14
Finish—
Material—
Cup Diameter
The Giardinelli F16 has a cup diameter of 17.50 mm compared to 17.43 mm on the Schilke 31C2 — a difference of +0.07 mm. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
Both mouthpieces share a medium cup depth, so the sound character from depth alone will be very similar.
Throat Diameter
The Giardinelli F16 has a wider throat (4.50 mm vs 3.57 mm). 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.