Sizing - Getting the Right Fit
The unusual shape of the Wedge means that the dimensions of conventional mouthpieces can only be used as a starting point in selecting the best mouthpiece size. However, a little perseverance in finding the right rim and cup can produce amazing results. It is important to bear in mind that the Wedge will feel different than your regular mouthpiece. In choosing a Wedge it is therefore important to concentrate on finding a mouthpiece that out performs your conventional mouthpiece, rather than one that feels similar to it.
The Wedge mouthpiece in most cases increases the range available to the player. It does not do this the way a shallow or small mouthpiece does, by producing a bias towards upper register performance. Instead it expands the "dynamic range" on the instrument. Both lower register and upper register performance is enhanced, producing a bigger sound throughout the entire range of the horn. The spread between the lowest, fattest note and highest note that can be played is increased. Depending on the characteristics of the Wedge mouthpiece selected the improved performance in either the upper or lower register may be more evident at first. In some cases the lower register is fuller and easier while the upper register is unchanged or more challenging. This almost always means that a change to a smaller or shallower Wedge will shift the mid point of the range up and return lower range performance to the same level as a conventional mouthpiece while providing improved upper range performance.
Experience has shown that this enhanced dynamic range means that many players can down size when using a Wedge with no compromise in performance, while gaining several advantages from using a smaller mouthpiece. The information at the links below will help you to find the right size. I also like to speak personally to every player in order to help select the most appropriate size based on their current mouthpiece, type of playing, and desired result from a mouthpiece change. For more information on how to use this sizing information to choose your best size, you might want to first visit the The Wedge Line page.