Bach 12E vs Denis Wick 4.5AL

The Denis Wick 4.5AL has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 4.5AL features a deeper cup, the Denis Wick 4.5AL has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Bach 12E
    • Trombone
    Cup diameter24.50 mm / 0.9646 in
    Cup depthShallow
    Rim width
    Throat diameter5.85 mm / 0.2303 in
    Backbore
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Denis Wick 4.5AL
      • Trombone
      Cup diameter25.85 mm / 1.0177 in
      Cup depthVery deep
      Rim width6.80 mm / 0.2677 in
      Throat diameter7.24 mm / 0.2850 in
      Backborebarrel
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Denis Wick 4.5AL has a cup diameter of 25.85 mm / 1.0177 in compared to 24.50 mm / 0.9646 in on the Bach 12E — a difference of 1.35 mm / 0.0531 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Denis Wick 4.5AL has a very deep cup while the Bach 12E has a shallow cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Denis Wick 4.5AL has a wider throat (7.24 mm / 0.2850 in vs 5.85 mm / 0.2303 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.

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