3C Hybrid Traditional Top

The Wedge Hybrid consists of a 3D printed polymer rim and cup liner permanently bonded to a brass base.

The rim and cup liner is made from a safe, medical grade resin used in the dental profession to print permanent crowns. It is composed of 51% nano-ceramic particles, which gives it characteristics very similar to natural tooth material, or bone. The material is certified as non allergenic, non irritating, and safe for prolonged skin and lip contact. 

Advantages of the Hybrid design compared to other materials, including an acrylic top on a brass backbore:

* Avoids allergic reactions to metal mouthpieces - no contact with metal on the rim OR cup (unlike plastic screw rims).

* Feels warm, like other plastic mouthpieces.

* Smoother and more comfortable than gold or silver plated brass.

* Slightly more grip than silver, providing better endurance - less grippy than acrylic.

* Provides a slightly warmer sound than brass.

* Notes lock in, or slot better than acrylic, very much like brass.

* More core and clarity in the sound than acrylic.

* Clearer articulation than acrylic.

* Better feedback to the player than acrylic - feedback and connection to the horn feels like a brass mouthpiece.

* More durable and very resistant to breakage, unlike acrylic.

The 3C HT, is the Wedge most similar to the Bach 3C. It is based on the Bach Mt Vernon 3C and has a cup depth that is slightly shallower than the Bach 1.5C, Bach 5C, and B7C. It therefore has a slightly brighter sound, and provides more support in the upper register than the 1.5C/5C.  

The 3C is a great all round mouthpiece for a wide variety of applications. The sound is a bit bright for an orchestral setting, depending on the player's natural sound and sound preferences. The Hybrid design does offset the brighter sound to some extent.

The 3C is very well suited to situations where a bit more efficiency and projection is desired, such as concert band, brass quintet, marching, and jazz band.