Bach 12E vs Kelly 5G

The Kelly 5G has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly 5G features a deeper cup.

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
      Kelly 5G
      • Trombone
      Orchestral
      Cup diameter25.40 mm / 1.0000 in
      Cup depth
      Rim width
      Throat diameter
      BackboreL
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📋Symphonic trombone

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly 5G has a cup diameter of 25.40 mm / 1.0000 in compared to 24.50 mm / 0.9646 in on the Bach 12E — a difference of 0.90 mm / 0.0354 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly 5G has a — 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.

      Material

      The Bach 12E is described as unspecified, and the Kelly 5G as Lexan polycarbonate. Material affects mass, warmth, and how quickly the piece responds.

      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 12E details Kelly 5G details Bach 12E equivalents Kelly 5G equivalents