Mouthpiece

The LOTUS mouthpiece is
designed and crafted to make playing the trumpet more enjoyable

Third Generation

TurboWood


・Allows for surprisingly easy tuning and playing

・Improved tone, accuracy, and endurance

・Familiar rim and cup design make it easy to switch from other brands

・Available in three materials—annealed brass, bronze, and nickel silver—allowing for finer control over the balance of tone, projection, stability, and flexibility

“I, Adam Rapa, believe that the choice of mouthpiece is far more important than which trumpet you play. The mouthpiece is an instrument in its own right and a crucial amplification device.

What we call the ‘sound’ is determined more by the mouthpiece than by the trumpet itself. Range, articulation quality, flexibility, durability… the mouthpiece plays a major role in determining the instrument’s overall intonation and the resistance you feel when moving air. When it comes to playing, you’re influenced far more by the mouthpiece than by the trumpet. And fortunately, mouthpieces are much cheaper than trumpets!”

For Trumpet

To classical and jazz musicians…

Have you ever loved the sound of B-cup mouthpieces but given up because you felt limited by their range or endurance? We’ve finally cracked the code that seemed impossible!

 

The XL cup is particularly effective for orchestra players, and we recommend the 1XL or 2XL. This model maintains a sweet, full-bodied sound while offering a subdued tone that isn’t overly bright in the forte range and below. You’ll blend seamlessly into the ensemble—and avoid getting glared at by the conductor! It also makes it easy to reproduce the various articulations found throughout different pieces.

 

For jazz players

When playing ballads or adopting the mellow styles of Chet Baker or Blue Mitchell, this mouthpiece delivers a very warm, full-bodied, and refined sound. Even if you’re using a heavy trumpet or a large-bore trumpet, simply switching to this mouthpiece will instantly give you a rich, full sound.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7. Available in 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 these situations

・For orchestral or chamber music performances where a warm sound is desired

・For those who frequently perform in small or older concert halls alongside rotary trumpets

・Jazz soloists who prefer a warm, rounded tone and do not rely heavily on the upper register

 

 

For those who play in orchestras or perform classical music, switching from a Bach 1C to a 1XL2/Brass will allow you to play seamlessly. The instrument becomes easier to project, and even though the sound coming from the bell is louder than before, the effort required is reduced by 5–10%. If you like the rich sound of the 1C but want a smaller rim, that’s no problem either. Simply choose the XL2 cup in your preferred rim size.

 

For Soloists and Principal Players in Orchestras and Wind Ensembles

With a Lotus mouthpiece, your high notes will never go flat, and you won’t need to worry about alternative fingerings. This is crucial for successfully navigating specific passages in works such as Mahler’s Symphony No. 6, the “Alpine Symphony,” and many film scores. We’ve also received feedback from piccolo trumpet players who switched to the XL2 cup because it makes tuning the high register easier and the notes more accessible.

 

To Jazz Musicians

This cup adds character and depth to your sound. It provides easy access to a wide range, allowing you to confidently tackle challenging phrases even when improvising. Furthermore, its wide tonal range makes it easier to express nuance and individuality. It adds richness to ballad performances and excels in bebop lines and high-register adventures.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7. Choose between 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 these situations

・For performances with large ensembles, such as orchestras and wind bands

・For those who seek the rich sound of a 1C but prefer the smaller rim diameters of 2, 3, or 7-rim models

・Jazz soloists who want a rich tone but also want to play with a bright sound when necessary

The new XL3 cup model delivers an unprecedented, full-bodied sound and a wide range of tonal colors.

This model was born from the desire to “make the XL2 cup produce a larger, wider sound while still delivering a brilliant tone during moments of great dynamic range.”

By making the cup slightly deeper, we’ve achieved a sound with overwhelming depth. However, we haven’t sacrificed the characteristic of the XL2 cup that produces a wild sound when you blow into it.

Despite its depth—which is rare for a mouthpiece of this type—it offers easy access to the high register.

At soft dynamics, the XL3 delivers the same creamy sweetness as the XL cup. Try gradually changing the dynamics. You’ll find dozens of subtle nuances even between pianissimo and mezzo-forte—each with its own unique character—allowing for an incredibly diverse range of expression.

When playing forte, the sound expands with the same brilliance and excitement as the XL2 cup, but with a richer, fuller core.

This model is sure to be coveted by everyone, from top-tier classical and jazz players to beginners. The vast majority of players using Bach 1-1/4C, 1-1/2C, 3C, 5C, and 7C models will find our L-cup (or L2) to be ideal. Many players fall in love at first listen with its tone, free intonation, and—above all—the overwhelming ease with which it can be played.

 

The major difference compared to similar cups from other brands is that the high register becomes surprisingly open and effortless. For classical players, this means there’s no longer a need to switch to a shallower cup, even when playing the piccolo trumpet. Whether it’s a sweet whisper, a fearsome roar, dignity, or mischief, you can produce the exact sound you intend. 

 

Special Notes

If you want the rich sound of a Bach 1-1/4C but need the narrow rim diameter of a 3C, 5C, or 7C, the Lotus L Cup is for you. It delivers a rounded, full tone with improved articulation clarity—perfect for classical settings or big jazz solos—and comes in the rim size that’s just right for you.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7, 9. Choose from 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 situations like this

・When you want the depth of a 1-1/4C but need a narrow rim diameter like that of a 3C, 5C, or 7C

・Orchestral players seeking a broad sound but needing a little help accessing the high register

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

The L2 cup is equivalent to the C cup but is best suited for jazz and commercial players. While it sacrifices a little warmth and width of sound, it delivers maximum power in the high register. Think of the C cup as a flamethrower that ignites the moment you step on the gas, just like the L cup.

 

If you’re a classical musician seeking maximum “pop” in your articulation or a clear sound even during slurred passages, you should definitely try this cup.

 

If you’re the type who plays the lead on a Bach 3C, or if you’re a jazz soloist looking for a little extra help to cut through the band with an aggressive solo, you’ll love the 2L2 or 2L2-HC! (We especially recommend the nickel silver version.)

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, and 3. Available in brass, bronze, and 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 these situations

・For those looking for turbo-boost versions of the Bach 1-1/2C, 3C, 5C, or 7C

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

・Players who don’t want to sacrifice the sound projection achieved with the 1-1/2C size but wish to improve high-register access and endurance

・With nickel silver, you can play with a sound that burns brightly and consistently, as if it were ablaze

The Lotus M Cup is a model particularly worth noting for many players who don’t typically perform highly specialized music—those who need a cup that isn’t too deep or too shallow, too bright or too dark, and that 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*, as well as for those who play the piccolo with ease. Jazz players can easily cut through the rest of the band while maintaining a full, rich sound. 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 backbore is designed to further enrich the tone; while it’s nearly the same size as the D Cup, it resonates with the same brightness as the C Cup. This makes it ideal for lead players who want to add depth to their sound in solos or section parts… For players accustomed to shallow cups, it’s the perfect choice without sacrificing that beautiful brilliance.

 

A Request to Teachers

We recommend this model even for beginners—especially those who aren’t aiming to become professional classical musicians—who need a little help reaching the higher notes. It’s the ideal choice for anyone seeking a full, rich sound for wind ensembles, solo recitals, big bands, and marching bands.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 11. Choose from 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 these situations

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

・Piccolo trumpet players who want to move away from a sound that is too bright

・For situations requiring a wide range and versatile tone, such as musicals, commercials, and studio sessions

・Players who typically use shallow-cup mouthpieces but are not reed players and want a louder sound, yet still need assistance with the high register

The M2 was added specifically for reed and studio players—and others—who sought a hotter, more aggressive sound than the M Cup offers. With a slightly shallower cup than the M Cup, a tight 3.6mm throat, a backbore that produces a bright tone similar to the Bach 76, and the distinctive tonal character of nickel silver, this cup represents a step toward a true reed mouthpiece.

It produces a sound that is even more characteristic of a reed mouthpiece than the M Cup. Since the cup volume is larger than that of an actual reed mouthpiece, it is ideal for players who say, “I can’t play a shallow cup.” It is suitable not only for high-note ballads in big bands but also for performances requiring low or mid-range playing. It offers richer and more musical nuances than a typical reed mouthpiece.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 11. Choose from 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 these situations

・For reed players seeking a “playing feel” with a bright tone similar to that of the lead player, combined with the “non-aggressive” energy characteristic of deep cups. Also recommended for the horn section

・Players who want significantly improved access to the high register and a “brighter, tighter sound,” but who struggle with shallow cups

・Second-section players in big bands who want to keep up with the lead player during solo parts, but also want a full-bodied sound when playing their own solos

・Players who find the sound of their piccolo trumpet too harsh or muddy

The S Cup is the quintessential classic/traditional lead cup. Haven’t you heard this age-old saying before? “The ultimate lead mouthpiece! It expands your range! It produces a wonderful, big sound!” This cup is likely the mouthpiece that comes closest to that description of any you’ve ever encountered.

 

Although it’s a shallow cup, it has a surprisingly rich tone. It’s highly praised by many players—including those who play 3rd or 4th in big bands—who say, “It’s easy to match the 1st’s tone without having to use a shallow mouthpiece.” It covers a wide range from the highest note to the lowest F#, and not only will you love the sound, but other musicians will appreciate it too.

 

Classical players accustomed to using Bach 7E or 7EW on the piccolo trumpet should compare them to this model. Like other Lotus mouthpieces, it offers a broader tonal range, clearer and more beautiful articulation, and the high register will no longer sound flat.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 11. Available in 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 these situations

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

・Piccolo trumpet players who use the Bach 7E/7EW

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

The XS cup can best be described as a “screamer.”

Although this cup is extremely shallow, we’ve managed to create a mouthpiece that offers clear articulation, precise intonation, and the ability to produce a powerful sound when needed. This is fantastic news for anyone who has struggled with shallow cups in the past.

 

If you’re used to shallow cups, I think you’ll immediately appreciate the quality of this tone. Normally, playing a mouthpiece this shallow isn’t easy. But with the XS cup, you can easily produce a big, bold sound and instantly switch from a Zippo lighter to a flamethrower without expending excessive energy.

Access to the high register is incredibly easy, allowing you to consistently reach the sound you’re aiming for. If you’ve been hoping to use a very shallow cup but hesitated because other manufacturers’ models produce an extremely harsh and bright tone, this will be a wonderful option for you.

 

Comparison Information (Rim sizes 2, 3, 7, 9, 11. Available in 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 = 3.6 mm (Bach #28) + Bach 76 backbore (even tighter)

 

Ideal for these situations

・For lead players seeking easy access to the high register and the utmost brilliance

・Salsa musicians, or anyone who wants to hear their own sound clearly on loud stages at the difficulty 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 looking for the richest, darkest, and creamiest flugelhorn sound, your search ends here. This is a flugelhorn soloist’s dream… exactly what everyone has been looking for. It elevates the depth and richness of high-end horns to an entirely new level and breathes new life into that entry-level instrument you’ve had sitting unused since high school.

 

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

 

Special Notes

This is an extremely deep cup. Normally, this would cause the high register to sound flat, and High C would be about a half-step lower. You’d be forced to choose between struggling desperately to hit the notes on the staff or simply giving up. However, with this cup, you don’t have to worry about that. High C and D are easy to tune, and with the right technique and determination, you can even reach notes beyond that range. 

 

The FL-XL cup is a “very deep” cup.

Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, and 7. Available in 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 has been optimized to be a cup that everyone will find approachable.

 

A major difference from standard mouthpieces is that it maintains stable intonation in the high register. You won’t have to worry about your sound falling apart when playing notes above the staff. You’ll enjoy a rich, buttery-smooth tone and surprisingly easy intonation all the way up to the highest notes.  

 

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

 

Special Notes

Lotus flugelhorn cups significantly improve the sound of any flugelhorn, but the FL-L cup in particular is so innovative that most players will choose it and immediately understand why.

It allows you to play scales and High C in the correct pitch, and even challenge notes higher than High C when soloing; it has the ability to transform entry-level to mid-range flugelhorns into instruments with a far more expensive-sounding tone. 

 

The FL-L cup is a “standard depth” cup.

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

 

Throat

FL-L = 4.55 mm

This mouthpiece delivers the essence of the “traditional flugelhorn sound” suitable for everything from wind ensemble to jazz and classical solos. It has been optimized to be a cup that everyone will find easy to play.

 

The major difference from standard mouthpieces is that the intonation remains stable in the high register. You won’t have to worry about your sound falling apart when playing notes above the staff. You’ll enjoy a rich, buttery-smooth tone and surprisingly easy intonation all the way up to the highest notes.  

 

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

 

Special Notes

Lotus flugelhorn cups significantly improve the sound of any flugelhorn, but the FL-L cup in particular is so innovative that most players will choose it and immediately understand why.

It allows you to play scales and High C in the correct pitch, and even challenge notes higher than High C when soloing; it has the ability to transform entry-level to mid-range flugelhorns into instruments with a far more expensive-sounding tone. 

 

The FL-L cup is a “standard depth” cup.

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

 

This mouthpiece was specially designed for players who use the flugelhorn exclusively in big bands. By combining a flugelhorn shank with a deeper trumpet cup, it ensures that the sound isn’t drowned out by trombones or saxophones, and allows for sustained playing even at high volumes without compromising endurance.

To achieve these goals, a shallower V-cup was adopted, resulting in the flugelhorn’s characteristic tone, a clear, projecting sound, and a character that is easy for the player to monitor.

 

Additionally, this mouthpiece has an interesting characteristic: when played forte, it does not produce a mellow sound. It is something of a hybrid between a flugelhorn and a trumpet, which will open up new possibilities for soloists seeking a sound unlike anything heard before. In this respect, it is a completely new product that stands apart from conventional flugelhorn mouthpieces.

 

The FL-M cup is “slightly shallower than medium.”

Rim sizes 1, 2, 3, and 7 are available. You can choose from brass or bronze.

 

Lotus mouthpieces are machined from brass, bronze, and nickel silver. After testing various materials, we selected the three we liked best.

These have distinctly different characteristics, delivering unparalleled control in a wide range of musical situations.
Additionally, all mouthpieces are silver-plated.

[Brass]

 

・Offers a full-bodied, well-balanced sound with rich tonal quality

・Suits most players and offers a familiar playing feel

・Blends easily with other players in the section

[Bronze]

 

・Adds warmth and richness to the tone
・Designed to produce a subdued sound that isn’t overly bright, even when played with full embouchure, until reaching forte

・Improves tonal stability


・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 more focused, bright sound
・The note target has been raised to the maximum to ensure precise pitch

・Provides clearer articulation


・Lead, big band, and commercial performances

・Those who need maximum support for precise playing
・Those whose sound tends to be muffled or who want to breathe new life into an older instrument