How do I pick a rim size?

When fitting a new mouthpiece with a player, we always start with the rim size of the mouthpiece.  If a mouthpiece rim size doesn't feel comfortable or impresses on an uncomfortable location, then the entire experience of a new mouthpiece can be altered, or just ruined.  An uncomfortable feel just be a huge distraction and really hinder listening and adjusting.

When you are looking for a new mouthpiece, our first question is "What mouthpiece are you playing on currently?"  This helps us understand what you're generally feeling now.  From there, we start with a Pickett rim that is similar in inner-diameter.

For example, if you are playing a Bach 3 mouthpiece, then we would start with a Pickett 3 rim diameter.  Even though the rim contour is not the same as the Bach, in general, the rim diameter will be familiar.  This is one less distraction in the journey.

The "inner-diameter" measurement is hard to compare from brand to brand because it's measured in different places by each company.  

An additional aspect of the Pickett rim that is important to consider in picking a rim size is the bite.  The bite is important to how the mouthpiece feels and how articulations work.  A sharp bite will typically help with articulations and feel more secure.