Euphonium SM4U

Product Code: DW5880E-SM4U

Description:

 

Diameter: 39.6 mm
Cup Diameter: 26.00 mm
Rim Width: 6.3 mm
Bore Size: 7.4 mm
Back Bore: V-type

Steven Mead designed his original SM series for Denis Wick back in 1995, but recent changes in instrument design and Steven’s desire for perfection, have been the spur to create this new design. After many prototypes, the Ultra SM3U was finally given Steven’s consent, and was met with universal approval at both Music China and the Brass Band Championships.

The new mouthpiece has a different, heavier outer shape, a slightly more rounded cup and a slightly sharper inner edge to the rim. The sound is powerful, with a beautiful singing high register.

Steven Mead said ‘From an initial concept drawing we started to get closer to the desired goal. Each prototype was subjected to rigorous testing in different acoustics, using ‘blind’ judges listening to the new mouthpiece in relation to others. Each time following the tests we were able to make it a little better, then again a little better. Finally, we arrived at the finished version and I’m delighted with it!’

Chinese-born Allen Fan, a rising euphonium star based in Switzerland, commented “the Ultra has such a powerful high register – I think that is the loudest top B that I have ever played!”

"The Denis Wick SM4U has my warmest recommendation.

for me, Steven mead's Ultra SM4U is the right choice over the Alliance and Perantucci mouthpieces, and I feel that, with this mouthpiece, I can better adapt my tone and articulation to my surroundings, and that I can 'enter into character' when necessary in the band. The rim shape makes it easy to 'get around' in different registers, and the large V-shaped cup will ensure that it is easier to make the 'modern British' sound, which is what I peronally strive for."

Steffen Maersk

Euphoinum player, The Royal Lifeguards Music Corps, Copenhagen, Denmark Solo Euphonium, Concord Brass Band

(edited and translated from the original Danish)