Bach 16 vs Kelly MDC

The Kelly MDC has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly MDC features a deeper cup, the Bach 16 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Bach 16
    • French Horn
    Cup diameter16.25 mm / 0.6398 in
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter4.50 mm / 0.1772 in
    Backbore
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Kelly MDC
      • French Horn
      General
      Cup diameter16.26 mm / 0.6402 in
      Cup depth
      Rim width
      Throat diameter4.06 mm / 0.1598 in
      BackboreL
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
      📋French horn medium-deep

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly MDC has a cup diameter of 16.26 mm / 0.6402 in compared to 16.25 mm / 0.6398 in on the Bach 16 — a difference of 0.01 mm / 0.0004 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly MDC has a — cup while the Bach 16 has a very deep cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Bach 16 has a wider throat (4.50 mm / 0.1772 in vs 4.06 mm / 0.1598 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      Material

      The Bach 16 is described as unspecified, and the Kelly MDC 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 16 details Kelly MDC details Bach 16 equivalents Kelly MDC equivalents