Bach 12 vs Bach 16
The Bach 12 has a wider cup diameter, the Bach 16 features a deeper cup.
Mouthpiece A
Bach 12
• French Horn
Cup diameter16.50 mm / 0.6496 in
Cup depthMedium
Rim width—
Throat diameter4.50 mm / 0.1772 in
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
All-round versatile — balanced cup for general playing
High-volume projection — open throat for power
vs
Mouthpiece B
Bach 16
• French Horn
Cup diameter16.25 mm / 0.6398 in
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width—
Throat diameter4.50 mm / 0.1772 in
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
High-volume projection — open throat for power
Cup Diameter
The Bach 12 has a cup diameter of 16.50 mm / 0.6496 in compared to 16.25 mm / 0.6398 in on the Bach 16 — a difference of 0.25 mm / 0.0098 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Bach 16 has a very deep cup while the Bach 12 has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.
Throat Diameter
Throat diameters are essentially identical at 4.50 mm / 0.1772 in, so resistance feel will be comparable.
Which is better?
Neither mouthpiece clearly dominates the other — the right choice depends on your embouchure, playing style, and the sound you're after. Try both if possible.