Product Overview
The 97C is yet another mouthpiece falls into a category of sizes that is a bit complicated to sort out due to inconsistencies in Bach rim sizes. It is most similar to a Bach 11C in terms of the cup, but with a smaller ID due the soft bite and flared upper cup shape of the 11C. The 97C is a good choice for players switching to the Wedge from the 11C or comparable mouthpiece.
Confusion arises because the Bach 11C actually has a larger cup volume than the Bach 7C, and nearly identical to the 6.75C, depending on the specimen scanned. The inner diameter of the 11C matches the 7C at about .05 inches into the cup (where we take our mouthpiece measurements). Below that point it is smaller, and then larger than the 7C a bit deeper into the cup, as shown in the profiles.
There is enough overlap in the sizes of the 6.75C, 7C, and 11C that one could easily pass for the other if the mouthpiece was not labelled. The main difference is rim shape.
Available with a .240 inch throat and a larger .250 throat for a more open blow. Strong players will get a bigger sound with the .250 throat, provided they have the air support required.
Material - These mouthpieces are made in Delrin plastic. Here is a list of their characteristics:
Delrin:- Feels softer on the chops because it has more give than metal. This is a great advantage for players with braces.
- Not as slippery as silver, giving more grip.
- Added grip makes Delrin mouthpieces feel smaller than their metal counterparts with the same size designation.
- Not as smooth as metal, so some players may feel slight chop irritation for the first day or two while they adjust.
- More comfortable to play in cold weather because they feel warm on the chops.
- Plastic mouthpieces are more responsive than brass, making soft entries more secure.
- Articulation less crisp with less point at the front of the note compared to brass.
- Darker sound than brass.
- Less core in the sound compared to brass.
