Giardinelli 5D vs Schilke 46D

The Giardinelli 5D has a wider cup diameter, the Giardinelli 5D features a deeper cup, the Giardinelli 5D has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Giardinelli 5D
    • Trombone
    Cup diameter25.00 mm
    Cup depthDeep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter6.00 mm
    Backbore15/64" (.234)
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Schilke 46D
      • Trombone
      Cup diameter24.76 mm
      Cup depthMedium
      Rim width
      Throat diameter5.95 mm
      Backbore15/64 .2344"
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Giardinelli 5D has a cup diameter of 25.00 mm compared to 24.76 mm on the Schilke 46D — a difference of +0.24 mm. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Giardinelli 5D has a deep cup while the Schilke 46D has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Giardinelli 5D has a wider throat (6.00 mm vs 5.95 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.

      Open in interactive tool + Add third mouthpiece Giardinelli 5D details Schilke 46D details Giardinelli 5D equivalents Schilke 46D equivalents