Bach 12E vs Kelly SKY-SS

The Kelly SKY-SS has a wider cup diameter.

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 SKY-SS
      • Trombone
      Lead
      Cup diameter24.64 mm / 0.9701 in
      Cup depthShallow
      Rim width
      Throat diameter
      BackboreS
      Finish
      Material316 Surgical Stainless Steel
      Best suited for
      📋Professional lead trombone

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly SKY-SS has a cup diameter of 24.64 mm / 0.9701 in compared to 24.50 mm / 0.9646 in on the Bach 12E — a difference of 0.14 mm / 0.0055 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      Both mouthpieces share a shallow cup depth, so the sound character from depth alone will be very similar.

      Material

      The Bach 12E is described as unspecified, and the Kelly SKY-SS as 316 Surgical Stainless Steel. 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 SKY-SS details Bach 12E equivalents Kelly SKY-SS equivalents