mouthpiece

LOTUS Mouthpiece
Designed to make playing the trumpet more enjoyable
is being made

Third Generation

TurboWood


・Tune and play with surprising ease

・Improving tone, accuracy, and endurance

・Familiar rim and cup design for easy switching from other brands

・By selecting from three materials—brass, bronze, and nickel silver—each treated with annealing, you can achieve finer control over the balance of tonal quality, projection, stability, and flexibility.

I, Adam Rapa, believe that choosing a mouthpiece is far more important than which trumpet one plays. The mouthpiece is an instrument in itself and a crucial amplification device.

What we call "sound" is determined more by the mouthpiece than by the trumpet itself. The mouthpiece plays a major role in determining the range, articulation quality, flexibility, and endurance... as well as the overall intonation of the instrument and the resistance felt when moving air. In playing, the mouthpiece has a greater influence than the trumpet itself. And fortunately, mouthpieces are far cheaper than trumpets!

For trumpet

To classical musicians and jazz musicians...

Do you love the sound of B-cup voices but gave up because you felt limited by your vocal range or stamina? We've finally cracked that seemingly impossible code!

 

XL cups are especially effective for orchestra players, and we recommend 1XL or 2XL. This model delivers a rich, sweet sound with a solid core, yet maintains a subdued tone that avoids excessive brightness in the forte range and below. It blends seamlessly into the ensemble and won't draw the conductor's ire! Furthermore, it allows for effortless reproduction of articulations throughout various pieces.

 

Jazz musicians

When playing ballads or performing with a gentle approach like Chet Baker or Blue Mitchell, this mouthpiece produces an exceptionally warm, rich, and refined sound. Even when using a heavy trumpet or a large bore trumpet, simply using this mouthpiece will immediately give you a rich sound.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7. Choose brass or bronze.)

1XL = Bach 1B, GR 67LX, Monette B1-1 S5, Bob Reeves 43.5BX, Schilke 17E, Warburton 2D, YAMAHA 16D4

2XL = Bach 1B + Lotus 2 rim, GR 66LX, Monette B4D, Bob Reeves 43BX, Schilke 14E, Warburton 4D, YAMAHA 15E4

3XL = Bach 1B + Lotus 3 rim, GR 65LX, Monette B6DS1, Bob Reeves 42BX, Schilke 13E, Warburton 5D, YAMAHA 13E4

7XL=  Bach 1B + Lotus 7 rim, GR64LX, Monette B7, Bob Reeves 41BX, Schilke 11E, Warburton 6D, YAMAHA 11E4

Ideal for such situations

・When seeking a warm sound concept in orchestral or chamber music performances

・Those who frequently perform with rotary trumpets in small/older halls

・Jazz soloists who favor warm, rounded tones and avoid overusing the high register

 

 

For those who play in orchestras or classical music, switching from Bach 1C to 1XL2/Brass allows for seamless performance. It makes any instrument easier to play, and even if the sound from the bell becomes louder than before, the effort required to achieve it can be reduced by 5-10%. Even if you like the rich sound of the 1C but want a smaller rim, that's no problem. Simply choose the XL2 cup with your preferred rim size.

 

To Soloists and Principal Players in Orchestras and Wind Ensembles

Using the Lotus mouthpiece prevents the high register from flattening and eliminates the need to consider alternate fingerings. This is crucial for success in specific passages of works like Mahler's Sixth Symphony, the Alpine Symphony, and numerous film scores. We've also received feedback from piccolo trumpet players who switched to the XL2 cup because it makes high register tuning easier and more accessible.

 

To the Jazz Musician

This cup will give your sound character and depth. It provides easy access to a wide range, empowering you to confidently tackle challenging phrases during improvisation. Its broad tonal range also makes it easier to express nuance and individuality. It lends richness to ballad playing while excelling in bop lines and high-register exploration.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7. Choose brass or bronze.)

1XL2 = Bach 1C, GR 67L, Monette B1-2 S3, Bob Reeves 43.5DS, Schilke 17C, Warburton 2MD, YAMAHA 16C4

2XL2 = Bach 1C + Lotus 2 rim, GR 66L, Monette B4SD/BLD S1, Bob Reeves 43DS, Schilke 14D, Warburton 4D, YAMAHA 15D4

3XL2 = Bach 2C, GR 65L, Monette B6D S1, Bob Reeves 42DS, Schilke 13D, YAMAHA 15C4/25

7XL2 = Bach 1C + Lotus 7 rim, GR 64L, Monette B7, Bob Reeves 41DS, Schilke 11D, YAMAHA 11D4

 

Ideal for such situations

・For large-scale performances such as orchestras and wind ensembles

・Those who seek the rich sound of a 1C rim but prefer the smaller rim diameters of the 2, 3, and 7 rims

・Jazz soloists who possess a rich tone yet wish to play brightly when necessary

New Model・XL3The cup delivers the thickest sound and widest range of tones ever achieved.

XL2This model was born from the desire to create a cup that delivers a larger, wider sound while maintaining brilliant tonal quality during moments of great dynamics.

By slightly deepening the cup, we achieved an overwhelmingly rich sound. However,XL2It does not sacrifice the characteristic that transforms into a wild sound when blown into, like a cup.

The mouthpiece of this cup's depth is unusual in that it allows easy access to the high register.

XL3In soft dynamics,XLYou'll achieve a creamy sweetness like a cup of coffee. Now, let's gradually shift the dynamics. Even just between pianissimo and mezzoforte, there are dozens of subtle expressions, each possessing its own unique color, making the expression of nuance incredibly diverse.

Upon reaching Forte,XL2The sound spreads with the same brilliance and excitement as the cup, but with a thicker core.

This model is something everyone from top-tier classical and jazz players to beginners will want. The vast majority of Bach 1-1/4C, 1-1/2C, 3C, 5C, and 7C players will find our L cup (or L2) ideal. And many players fall in love at first sight with its tone, free intonation, and above all, the overwhelming ease of playing it.

 

The major difference compared to similar cups from other brands is how remarkably open and effortless the high register becomes. For classical players, even when performing in situations requiring a piccolo trumpet, there's no longer a need to switch to a shallower cup. Whether it's a sweet whisper, a terrifying roar, dignity, or malice, it delivers the precise sound required. 

 

Special Notes

If you desire the rich sound of a Bach 1-1/4C but require the narrow rim diameter of a 3C, 5C, or 7C, the Lotus L Cup is for you. It delivers a rounded, full tone with enhanced articulation clarity, perfectly matching classical settings or the big sound of jazz solos, allowing you to play with the rim that fits you best.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7, 9. Choose brass, bronze, or nickel silver.)

1L = Bach 1-1/4C, GR 67.4, Monette B2-S3, Bob Reeves 43.5CS, Schilke 16C, Warburton 3MD, YAMAHA 16B4

2L = Bach 3C, GR 3M/66M, Monette B4S1, Bob Reeves 43CS, Schilke 14C, Warburton 4MD, YAMAHA 14D4

3L = Bach 5C, GR 65MX, Monette B5, Bob Reeves 42CS, Schilke 13C, Warburton 5MD, YAMAHA 13C4

7L = Bach 7C, GR 64L, Monette B7, Bob Reeves 41DS, Schilke 11D, YAMAHA 11D4

 

Ideal for such situations

・When seeking a depth of 1-1/4C but requiring narrow rim diameters such as 3C, 5C, or 7C

・Orchestra players seeking a wide sound range but needing a little help accessing the upper registers

・Jazz soloists who find the XL2 too deep but seek a rich, warm, and rounded tone

The L2 Cup is equivalent to the C Cup, but it's ideal for jazz and commercial players. While it sacrifices a bit of warmth and width in the sound, it delivers maximum power in the high range. Think of it like the C Cup—step on the accelerator, and it turns into a flamethrower.

 

If you're a classical player seeking maximum articulation "pop" or a clear sound even within slur lines, you should definitely try this cup.

 

If you're the type who plays lead on a Bach 3C, or if you're a jazz soloist needing extra help to cut through the band with an aggressive solo, you'll love the 2L2 or 2L2-HC! (The nickel silver version is especially recommended.)

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3. Choose from brass, bronze, or nickel silver.)

1L2 = Bach 1-1/2C, GR 66.8L/66.9/67L, Monette B3-S3, Bob Reeves 43.5C692, Schilke 15C, Warburton 3MC, YAMAHA 15B4

2L2 = Bach 3C, GR 3M/66M, Monette B4S2, Bob Reeves 43C692, Schilke 14C, Warburton 4MD, YAMAHA 14C4/Shew JAZZ

3L2 = Bach 5C, GR 65MX, Monette B6S1, Bob Reeves 42C692, Schilke 13C, Warburton 5MC, YAMAHA 13C4

 

Ideal for such situations

・For those seeking the turbo-boost versions of Bach 1-1/2C/3C/5C/7C

・Players who require a large cup volume of 1-1/2 cups but need a small rim like the Lotus 2, 3, or 7

・For those who don't want to sacrifice the sound projection achievable with a 1-1/2C size but wish to improve access to the upper register and endurance

・Nickel silver allows for playing that feels like it's constantly burning, as if it were on fire.

The Lotus M Cup is a model of particular interest to many players who typically perform music that isn't overly specialized, requiring a cup that is neither too deep nor too shallow, neither too bright nor too dark, and significantly boosts the high register.

 

The M cup is ideal for players who need more sizzle when performing classics like West Side Story or Star Wars, or for those who play the piccolo with ease. Jazz players can maintain a thick, rich sound while effortlessly cutting through the band. It's the perfect cup for when you want to shine like a trumpet hero or turn heads at a New Orleans street parade.

 

The Back Bore is designed to produce an even richer tone. While nearly the same size as a D cup, it resonates with the same bright clarity as a C cup. This makes it an ideal choice for lead players seeking depth in their sound during solos or section parts... For players accustomed to shallow cups, it offers the perfect solution without sacrificing that beautiful brilliance.

 

A Request to Teachers

For beginners who are not aiming to become professional classical musicians, this instrument is recommended for those needing a little help producing higher notes. It is the ideal model for those seeking a full sound suitable for wind ensembles, solo recitals, big bands, and marching bands.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 11. Choose brass, bronze, or nickel silver.)

1M = Bach D Cup + Lotus 1 Rim, GR 66.7M, Monette B1-LDS1, Bob Reeves 43.5M, Schilke 17B, Warburton 3M, YAMAHA 16D4

2M = Bach D Cup + Lotus 2 Rim, GR 3M, Monette B4LD/2S3 or BLM S1, Bob Reeves 43M, Schilke 14B, Warburton 4M, YAMAHA 14B4

3M = Bach D Cup + Lotus 3 Rim, GR 65M, Monette B6LD S1, Bob Reeves 42M, Schilke 11B, Warburton 5M, YAMAHA 13B4

7M = Bach D Cup + Lotus 7 Rim, GR 64M, Monette B7LD S1, Bob Reeves 41M, Schilke 11B, Warburton 6M, YAMAHA 11B4

 

Ideal for such situations

・Beginners and young students who need help expanding their vocal range to broaden their interest in performance

・Piccolo trumpet players who want to move beyond overly bright tones

・For musicals, commercials, studio sessions, and other situations requiring a wide vocal range and diverse timbres

・I usually use a shallow cup mouthpiece, but since I'm not a reed player, I want a bigger sound. However, I need help with the high register.

The M2 was added specifically for commercial players such as leads and studio musicians who sought a hotter, more aggressive sound than the M cup. It features a slightly shallower cup than the M cup, a tight 3.6mm throat, a backbore reminiscent of the brighter tone of the Bach 76, and the distinctive color of nickel silver—marking a step toward a true lead mouthpiece.

It produces a sound even more reminiscent of a lead mouthpiece than an M cup. With a larger cup volume than an actual lead cup, it's ideal for players who find shallow cups difficult to play.It is suitable for playing ballads with high notes in big bands, as well as for playing in the lower and middle registers. It provides richer, more musical nuances than a standard lead mouthpiece.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 11. Choose brass, bronze, or nickel silver.)

1M2 = GR 67MS, Monette B1-L S1, Bob Reeves 43.5M692, Schilke 17B3A, YAMAHA 16D4A

2M2 = GR 3MS/66MS, Monette B4LD S1, Bob Reeves 43M692, Schilke 14B3A, YAMAHA 14B4

3M2 = GR 65MS, Monette B2L S3, Bob Reeves 42M692, Schilke 13B3A, YAMAHA 13B4A

7M2 = GR 64MS, Monette B7LD S2, Bob Reeves 41M692, Schilke 11B3A, YAMAHA 11B4

 

Ideal for such situations

・For lead players seeking a "playing feel" with a bright tone similar to that of a lead player and the "non-aggressive" energy characteristic of a deep cup. Also recommended for horn sections.

・Significantly improves access to the high register, appealing to players seeking a "brighter, tighter sound" but who dislike shallow cups

・As a second player in a big band, I want to be able to keep up with the lead player during solo parts. However, when playing solos, I want to produce a rich, full sound.

・For those whose piccolo trumpet sound is harsh or muddy

The S Cup is truly a classic/traditional lead cup. Haven't you heard this line for ages? "The ultimate lead mouthpiece! Expands your range! Produces a magnificent, powerful sound!" This cup is likely the closest you'll ever come to that ideal mouthpiece.

 

Despite its shallow cup, it possesses a surprisingly rich tone. Many players, especially those performing third or fourth parts in big bands, appreciate that "it's easy to blend with the first part's sound without needing a shallow mouthpiece." It covers a wide range from the highest notes to the lowest Low F#, and you'll find that not only you, but other musicians listening will love its sound.

 

Classical players accustomed to using Bach 7E or 7EW on piccolo trumpets should compare this model. Like other Lotus mouthpieces, it delivers a broader tonal range, clearer articulation, and eliminates flatness in the upper register.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 11. Choose from brass or nickel silver.)

1S = Bach E Cup + Lotus 1 rim, GR 67S, Monette B1-5L, Bob Reeves 43.5S, Schilke 17A4, Warburton 3SV, YAMAHA 16A4

2S = Bach E Cup + Lotus 2 Rim, GR 3S/66LS, Monette B4LS S1/BL S1, Bob Reeves 43BS, Schilke 14A4, Warburton 4SV, YAMAHA 14A4

3S = Bach E-cup + Lotus 3 rim, GR 65S, Monette B6L S1/BL2, Bob Reeves 42S, Schilke 13A4, Warburton 5SV, YAMAHA 13A4

7S = Bach E Cup + Lotus 7 rim, GR 64S, Monette BL S1/MFIII/BL 2J/BL4 S6, Bob Reeves 41S, Schilke 11A4, Warburton 6SV, YAMAHA 11A4

9S = Bach E Cup + Lotus 9 Rim, GR Bergeron/62S, Bob Reeves 40S, Schilke 6A4, YAMAHA 7A4

11S = Bach E Cup + Lotus 11 rim, Monette BL6, Schilke 5A4, YAMAHA 6A4

 

Ideal for such situations

・Players seeking a big, bold, traditional reed sound. Imagine the big band recordings of Basie or Sinatra.

・Piccolo trumpet players using Bach 7E/7EW

・Players who prefer more open-blow reed mouthpieces such as the GR Bergeron or Schilke 12-14A4

XS cups are perfectly described as "screamers."

This cup is extremely shallow, yet it has enabled us to create a mouthpiece with clear articulation, precise intonation, and the ability to produce a powerful sound when required. For those who have struggled with shallow cups until now, this is truly excellent news.

 

Those accustomed to shallow cups will immediately appreciate the superior tone quality. Typically, handling a mouthpiece this shallow is no easy feat. Yet with the XS cup, you can effortlessly produce bold, powerful notes and instantly switch from a Zippo to a flamethrower without excessive energy expenditure.

Access to the high register is remarkably easy, allowing you to consistently reach the desired notes. If you've been seeking a very shallow cup but hesitated due to other manufacturers' excessively harsh and bright tones, this could be an excellent choice.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 2, 3, 7, 9, 11. Choose from brass or nickel silver.)

2XS = Bach F Cup + Lotus 2 Rim, GR 3XS/66SZ*, Monette B4L S1, Bob Reeves 43ES, Schilke 15A4A, YAMAHA 15A4A

3XS = Bach F cup + Lotus 3 rim, GR 65SZ*, Monette B6LV S1, Bob Reeves 42ES, Schilke 13A4A, YAMAHA 13A4A

7XS = Bach F Cup + Lotus 7 rim, GR 64ES, Monette B2J/BL2 S3, Bob Reeves 41ES, Schilke 14A4A, YAMAHA 14A4/Shew Lead

9XS = Bach F Cup + Lotus 9 Rim, GR Bergeron/62SZ*, Bob Reeves 40ES, Schilke 6A4A, YAMAHA 7A4A

11XS = Bach F Cup + Lotus 11 Rim, Schilke 5A4A, YAMAHA 6A4A

 

Throat size

XS = 3.6mm (Bach #28) + Bach 76 back bore (even tighter)

 

Ideal for such situations

・For lead players seeking effortless access to the upper register and the ultimate brilliance

・Salsa musicians who want to hear their own sound clearly on loud stages, at the level of Earth, Wind & Fire or Stan Kenton

・When you want to make it clear who should stand out in an ensemble

For flugelhorn

If you're searching for the thickest, darkest, creamiest flugelhorn sound, your journey ends here. This is the flugelhorn soloist's dream... the one everyone has been seeking. It elevates you to an entirely new dimension of depth and richness in high-end horns, breathing new life into that entry-level instrument you've left untouched since high school.

 

This mouthpiece is nothing short of magical. Never before has a mouthpiece offered such a deep cup, such a magnificent sound, and such uncompromising intonation. You can also choose your preferred sound color from two types: brass and bronze.

 

Special Notes

This is an exceptionally deep cup. Typically, the high register would flatten, causing the High C to drop by about a semitone. You'd be forced to choose between desperately trying to produce the note on the staff or simply giving up. However, with this cup, such concerns are unnecessary. High C and D can be tuned easily, and with sufficient technique and determination, even higher notes become achievable. 

 

The FL-XL cup is a "very deep" cup.

Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7. Choose from brass or bronze.

 

 

【FL-L Cup】

This mouthpiece delivers the essence of the traditional flugelhorn sound, suitable for everything from wind ensemble to jazz and classical solos. It is optimized to provide a cup that is familiar and comfortable for all players.

 

The major difference from standard mouthpieces is that it maintains tuning stability in the high register. You won't have to worry about disastrous intonation above the standard staff range. You'll achieve a rich, buttery-smooth tone and remarkably effortless intonation all the way up to the highest notes.  

 

You can choose between brass for a traditional sound or bronze for a more modern, rich sound.

 

Special Notes

The Lotus flugelhorn cup significantly improves the sound of any flugelhorn, but the FL-L cup in particular is an innovative model that most players will choose and immediately recognize.

It enables you to achieve the correct pitch scale and hit a high C, allowing you to challenge notes even higher than high C in solos. It possesses the ability to transform the sound of entry-level to mid-range flugelhorns into one that sounds far more expensive. 

 

The FL-L cup is a "standard depth" cup.

Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7. Choose from brass or bronze.

 

Throat

FL-L = 4.55mm

This mouthpiece delivers the essence of the traditional flugelhorn sound, suitable for everything from wind ensemble to jazz and classical solos. It is optimized to provide a cup that is familiar and comfortable for all players.

 

The major difference from standard mouthpieces is that it maintains tuning stability in the high register. You won't have to worry about disastrous intonation above the standard staff range. You'll achieve a rich, buttery-smooth tone and remarkably effortless intonation all the way up to the highest notes.  

 

You can choose between brass for a traditional sound or bronze for a more modern, rich sound.

 

Special Notes

The Lotus flugelhorn cup significantly improves the sound of any flugelhorn, but the FL-L cup in particular is an innovative model that most players will choose and immediately recognize.

It enables you to achieve the correct pitch scale and hit a high C, allowing you to challenge notes even higher than high C in solos. It possesses the ability to transform the sound of entry-level to mid-range flugelhorns into one that sounds far more expensive. 

 

The FL-L cup is a "standard depth" cup.

Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7. Choose from brass or bronze.

 

This mouthpiece is specially designed for players who only use the flugelhorn in big bands. By combining a deep trumpet cup with a flugelhorn shank, it ensures the sound cuts through trombones and saxophones without being drowned out, while maintaining endurance even when playing at high volumes.

By adopting a shallow V-cup to achieve these concepts, we were able to capture the flugelhorn's characteristic tone, a clear sound with excellent projection, and a character that is easy for the player to monitor.

 

Additionally, this cup has an interesting characteristic: when played forte, it produces a sound that is not mellow. It's like a hybrid of a flugelhorn and a trumpet, opening up new possibilities for soloists seeking a completely new tone they've never heard before. In that sense, it is entirely new, setting itself apart from existing flugelhorn mouthpieces.

 

The FL-M cup is a cup that is "slightly shallower than medium."

Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7. Choose from brass or bronze.

 

Lotus mouthpieces are crafted by machining brass, bronze, and nickel silver.
After testing various materials, we selected the three we liked best.
These possess distinctly different characteristics, delivering unparalleled control in a wide range of scenarios.
Additionally, all mouthpieces are silver-plated.

【Brass】

 

・It delivers a rich, well-balanced sound with excellent audio quality.

・A familiar feel that suits most players

・Blends easily with others within the section

【Bronze】

 

・Adds warmth and richness to the tone
・Until playing forte, I aimed for a subdued sound that wouldn't shine too brightly even when blown hard.
・Tone stability is improved.

<Ideal for these situations>
・An approachable sound well-suited for jazz
・Chamber music
・When you want to fill the hall with your own sound without relying on the conductor

【Nickel Silver】

 

・A brighter, more focused sound
・To ensure precise note targeting, the note target has been maximized.
・Make articulation clearer

<Ideal for these situations>
・Lead, big band, commercial performances
・For those who require maximum support to achieve accurate performance
・For those whose sound tends to be muffled or who want to breathe new life into their aging instruments