Mouthpiece personalization

[bbuxx2026]

I recently had an audition and got my scores back in which i improved over 50 points not sure if it’s my new mouthpiece or i’ve just gotten better. I love the way i sound on my Denis Wick 2XL heritage, my teacher and fellow bandmates both agree my sound is better than before. here’s my problem it’s not very comfortable to play it feels off and not meant for my face, i love the size of the cup and the actual mouthpiece diameter (32mm) but i feel the rim contour doesn’t blend with my face well. i have a smaller face i’ve previously played a 7b since 4th grade until 8th where i tired a Conn 120, Miraphone Tu27 which were too big Schilke helleberg which i used until it got lost at a festival late last year which is where the Dw comes in it’s been great just uncomfortable. i’ve been looking for a new mouthpiece for solo work and occasional band playing, i’ve been looking toward a Roger Bobo solo for the shallow cup and slightly bigger rim. if you have a recommendations please let me know
TlDR Mouthpiece works great just uncomfortable to play looking for recommendations for new mouthpieces like the Dw 2xL

[AndyPlaysTuba]

Hello,

I have had some similar problems with some mouthpiece comfort, so I know where you’re coming from. I was on a PT-88 and 50 but the rim felt sharp to my lips and (being in school) hurt after my long days of playing. My professor had a Mike Finn 3 that he wasn’t using and I tried it and it was very very comfortable, having a slightly more rounded inner rim. I wouldn’t tell you to go buy it ($200ish) but it maybe a good thing to look into. IIRC, Tuba Exchange down in Durham also has some copies for quite a bit less ($100ish). Maybe it would be a good idea to see if some of the specs line up and to try one. I would also say that if you sound good and others agree, don’t change the specs of the mp, just take a look at some other models that might have varied rims, maybe even looking at like a 3part mouthpiece.

[Robert Tucci]

Andy, Both the PT-50 and PT-88, RT-50 and RT-88 for the U.S. are quite large. The rims have clearly defined rims, necessary for good response on mouthpieces which have large cup volume. Discomfort sources to pressing too hard. For example, to obtain a brighter sound or accommodate age related diminishing air supply. Arnold Jacobs once remarked: "When you grow older you have to breathe more often." Tell me about it, at age 84. The answer: First breathe deeply, pull in as much air as possible. Then play. Concentrate on the music and not the mechanical aspects of the embouchure.

Another manufacturer once remarked: "With the PT/RT-50 you created the 1 1/2C of the tuba world.". The success of these is due to an excellent balance of all desired qualities. The PT/RT-88 have something in common with the hops that grow here in Bavaria: Both "like to see their farmer" every day.

Bob Tucci