Mouthpiece Recommendations

[Magikarp]

Did you go with the M top, or maybe the new GVL?

Which backbore? I’ve found that they make a big difference with the AR pieces.

I went for the M top (26mm). It feels and looks slightly wider than the DC3 I also have, and the sound is significantly more resonant. There's a clue there somewhere.... Backbone is the large, to compensate for the narrower throat than I am used to.

I'm tempted to get a ML as well, but with a M backbone rather than the large I have with the M.

I fancy the look of the GVL but need more info before I send Tony another £400!

[bayoung36]

That’s the only downside, is that they’re so expensive! However, I love the multiple options the offer, I’ll send them an email to get more information if I end up going the Resonance route.

[miketeachesclass]

(Directed at magikarp - quoting didn’t work on mobile) I don’t know what customs would be like, but I could be convinced to send you some AR parts to try if you’d like.

[randy711]

Where does one buy an Alliance mouthpiece in the States?

[davewerden]

Where does one buy an Alliance mouthpiece in the States?

Dillon carries some of them, I believe.

[randy711]

Dillon carries some of them, I believe.

Thank you! I checked there first but they are out of stock. Childs’ website has some so I may go with that.

[miketeachesclass]

Thank you! I checked there first but they are out of stock. Childs’ website has some so I may go with that.

I have also occasionally ordered from Thomann, or direct from Alliance, even though I’m in the USA.

What are you looking for specifically?

[randy711]

I actually used Thomann! I’m glad you recommended them because after I ordered it, I immediately got worried since I was unfamiliar with the company! They said it would get here Thursday, which seems crazy fast!

I ordered a DC-4. About 6 years ago, I went through every mouthpiece I could get my hands on but this wasn’t on the list (I think because it didn’t exist then?). I landed on a Bach 5G Bach then. With all the nice things I have seen here about the DC’s, I want to give it a spin!

[randy711]

I should also mention I’m planning a purchase an Adams E2 or 3. Seems like a lot of folks like the combo and it’s also fun to buy new gear!

[bdawley81]

My very brief thoughts,

Mouthpieces are a very personal things, and we need to find what works for US personally. That being said, Mercer & Barker is doing amazing things. For wind band playing, I would look at the Brandon Jones pieces without a doubt. It's a hybrid of the Bowman and Schilke 51D. Absolutely amazing in feel and core sound produced. For brass band playing, I am very partial to the Wick mouthpieces. Namely the SMX line. Just my preferences though.