Giardinelli 18 vs Schilke 62
The Schilke 62 has a wider cup diameter, the Giardinelli 18 features a deeper cup, the Schilke 62 has a larger throat opening.
The internal diameter of the cup, measured at the widest point inside the rim.
Mouthpiece A
Giardinelli 18
• Tuba
Cup diameter31.00 mm / 1.2205 in
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
High-volume projection — open throat for power
vs
Mouthpiece B
Schilke 62
• Tuba
Cup diameter31.85 mm / 1.2539 in
Best suited for
High-volume projection — open throat for power
Cup Diameter
The Schilke 62 has a cup diameter of 31.85 mm / 1.2539 in compared to 31.00 mm / 1.2205 in on the Giardinelli 18 — a difference of 0.85 mm / 0.0335 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
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.