Giardinelli 18 vs Schilke 66
The Schilke 66 has a wider cup diameter, the Giardinelli 18 features a deeper cup, the Schilke 66 has a larger throat opening.
Cup Diameter
The Schilke 66 has a cup diameter of 31.52 mm compared to 31.00 mm on the Giardinelli 18 — a difference of +0.52 mm. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Giardinelli 18 has a deep cup while the Schilke 66 has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.
Throat Diameter
The Schilke 66 has a wider throat (8.33 mm vs 7.95 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.