horncups.com

So I'm about to buy a 23a zcup.
I play an Alex103 - do I actually need an e-taper? What is it anyway..?

The E taper was introduced less than ten years ago I think and has exactly the same external dimensions as the Alexander taper on the outside of the stem or shank so it would be sensible to go for one of those. The inside cup shape and dimensions are the same as all the standard PHC cups.

A lot of horn players have been using non E taper PHCs for ages and seem to be happy. You don't want it to wobble in the mouthpipe so get an E Taper.

I switched to the E-taper a while ago, coincidentally also 23A cup. As a very average amateur, I am probably not the greatest judge, but for me it made a significant difference, with some notes that had always been difficulty suddenly slotting in much more easily. Apart from anything else, if you are buying a cup anyway you might as well buy the one that actually fits the Alex, rather than the one that doesn't quite fit and wobbles about!

Agreed! But oh dear oh dear why do we have to wait a week for a follow-up to your posting? ( My excuse is that I have been abroad and don't have either a lap-top or an 'internet-ready' mobile phone.