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An Introduction to the Houghton Horns Mouthpieces
Houghton Horns mouthpieces possess striking external profiles with uniquely balanced rims, cups, bores, back-bores, and shanks. The entire line was designed by Mark Houghton and Derek Wright, and manufactured by Dave Houser. All are made of surgical-grade stainless steel, and come in 3 different models which are available in a variety of configurations. The intent was to create a line of mouthpieces that addressed the needs of real-world players by combining proven design concepts with the latest in technology and materials. Ultimately, the emphasis was on balance, focusing on the versatility and functionality that most modern players require. Between the three models, any horn player–high or low, orchestral or commercial, solo or section–should be capable of finding a Houghton mouthpiece that provides a sense of comfort and identity.
Why stainless steel?
Stainless steel is one of the most advanced manufacturing alloys in use today. It is corrosion-resistant, hypoallergenic, lightweight, scratch-resistant and more durable than silver-plated or gold-plated brass. There is no plating to erode or chip. A stainless steel mouthpiece will outlast its plated counterparts by many years, and can be re-polished if scratched.
- High volume, bowl-shaped cup
- #14 bore, medium back-bore
- Morse (American) or European shank taper
- Comfort rim with carefully defined bite for ultra-clear articulation
- Six rim inner diameters: 17.25 mm, 17.5 mm, 17.75 mm, 18 mm, 18.25 mm, 18.5 mm
- Standard volume, bowl-shaped cup
- #14 bore, wide back-bore
- Morse (American) or European shank taper
- Semi-flat, rounded rim based on a 1960’s era Giardinelli ”wide rim”
- Rim inner diameter: 17.75 mm
- Deep, funnel/bowl combination cup, based on the original 1960’s era “block-letter” Farkas mouthpiece
- #17 bore, specialized back-bore
- Morse (American) or European shank taper
- Semi-flat rim based on the original 1960’s era “block-letter” Farkas mouthpiece
- Rim inner diameter: 17.75 mm
H4 (Cup Only)
- Meduium, funnel/bowl combination cup (a shallower version of the original 1960’s era “block-letter” Farkas mouthpiece
- #16 bore, specialized back-bore
- Morse (American) or European shank taper
Exterior Profile
The exterior of the mouthpiece was designed to provide exceptional playability, along with unmatched beauty. The uniquely positioned “knurled bulb” adds increased mass to the middle of the mouthpiece, aiding in efficient resonance, projection, response, and weight balance. The knurl also provides helpful traction for assembly of the cup and rim, and a handy grip for mouthpiece buzzing. The outside of the mouthpiece is “bead-blasted” for a durable satin finish.
Rims
All Houghton rims have an ultra-smooth, comfortable feel, with special bites and contours to accompany each model.
Cups
The cup designs are largely sourced from successful designs of the past, with modifications for enhanced performance. The H1 and H2 cups are bowl-shaped for excellent response, with maximum resonance and life. The H1 has a slightly larger volume than the H2. The H3 cup has a combination funnel/bowl shape that is based on the original 1960’s era “block-letter” Farkas mouthpiece. The H3 is relatively less resistant, and produces a rich, velvety sound.
Bores and back-bores
Each of the models is mated to a bore and back-bore that complement their individual characteristics.
Shanks
The mouthpiece shanks are sized for optimum fit and response in most horns with a Morse (American) or similarly tapered receiver. European shanks are also available.
Compatibility
All Houghton rims and cups are equipped with standard Giardinelli threads and a .660″ junction, making them compatible with the vast majority of rims and cups on the market, including the entire line of standard Houser mouthpieces.
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