Asymmetric Lead 342M Trumpet Mouthpiece
The Asymmetric Trumpet Mouthpiece
Must Be Played To Be Believed!
This is referred to as a "Range Enhancing Mouthpiece" by the manufacturer. The unique cup design provides more support for the lower lip allowing a greater freedom in the high register of the instrument.The Lead 342 Model
The ultimate embodiment of the concept, having laser-like cutting power and a bright, full, brutal sound. Designed for demanding high register performance, with semi-flat upper rim, medium cup depth, 25 throat (.150") and dual, modified straight backbore for a good low register and a bigger altissimo sound. Effective in any playing situation, but most appropriately applied as a lead trumpet mouthpiece. The Opera 545 Model
For Symphony players, Jazz players and others desiring a less aggressive, more legitimate sound with good projection, but somewhat less edge than either the 3C+544 or the Lead 342. The upper rim has a well defined inner edge for reliable upper lip suspension, good flexibility and clean attack. The rim surface is semi-curved with a slightly higher inboard surface, and slightly softened outside edge for comfort and endurance. The bottom rim inner edge has also been softened to improve low-register performance and flexibility. The #2 Schmitt style backbore, effectivly deeper cup (minimal cup/backbore separation) and 25 throat (.150") along with massive cup and shank weighting tend to provide excellent slotting and a somewhat darker, more Teutonic sound, ideal for symphonic, operatic or jazz performances. The 3C+544 Model
Similar in design to the Opera 545 but effectivly slightly shallower due to more cup/backbore separation (longer cylinder) with much less weighting, a different backbore configuration and a slightly different rim geometry. These design features tend to produce a little brighter sound than the Opera 545, but without the edge and cutting power of the Lead 342. Slotting is also a little less for more overall, non-specialized performance requirements. They also incorporate the intonation and ease of playing frequently associated with a 3C. But this is a 3C "plus". The plus means easier high-register, more endurance and several additional semitones of high range. Like the other Asymmetrics, the throat is open (.150") for a bigger sound, but not to the point of adversely affecting endurance or intonation. And, the cup and backbore have been balanced. Definitely the mouthpiece of choice for players requiring a mouthpiece for more all around application, and light years ahead of the competition. The Lead 342M Model
The Lead 342M is for the power player who likes to put more air through the mouthpiece. The Lead 342M is identical to the Lead 342 except it has a shorter (0.100-inch) cylindrical section below the throat and a very slightly larger backbore. This mouthpiece will go up to double C without breaking up and can deliver (depending on the player) slightly more power over the complete acoustic range, but it takes a little more air and is a little less resistant. If you need power with slightly less resistance, the Lead 342M is it.Band Directors
Start your students on Asymmetric "3C+544"s to avoid the unnecessary handicaps of poor range and endurance. And, switch your more advanced players to Asymmetric "Lead 342"s and have a powerhouse trumpet section in a few months!!