Bach 12 vs Yamaha HR-29B

The Yamaha HR-29B has a wider cup diameter, the Bach 12 features a deeper cup, the Bach 12 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
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
      Yamaha HR-29B
      • French Horn
      Cup diameter17.07 mm / 0.6720 in
      Cup depthShallow
      Rim width
      Throat diameter3.90 mm / 0.1535 in
      BackboreSemi-wide
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Yamaha HR-29B has a cup diameter of 17.07 mm / 0.6720 in compared to 16.50 mm / 0.6496 in on the Bach 12 — a difference of 0.57 mm / 0.0224 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Bach 12 has a medium cup while the Yamaha HR-29B has a shallow cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Bach 12 has a wider throat (4.50 mm / 0.1772 in vs 3.90 mm / 0.1535 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      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.

      Open in interactive tool + Add third mouthpiece Bach 12 details Yamaha HR-29B details Bach 12 equivalents Yamaha HR-29B equivalents