Bach 12E vs Yamaha SL-45AS

The Bach 12E has a wider cup diameter, the Bach 12E 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
      Yamaha SL-45AS
      • Trombone
      Cup diameter24.26 mm / 0.9551 in
      Cup depthVery shallow
      Rim width
      Throat diameter5.85 mm / 0.2303 in
      BackboreSemi-narrow
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Bach 12E has a cup diameter of 24.50 mm / 0.9646 in compared to 24.26 mm / 0.9551 in on the Yamaha SL-45AS — a difference of 0.24 mm / 0.0094 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Bach 12E has a shallow cup while the Yamaha SL-45AS has a very shallow 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 5.85 mm / 0.2303 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.

      Open in interactive tool + Add third mouthpiece Bach 12E details Yamaha SL-45AS details Bach 12E equivalents Yamaha SL-45AS equivalents