Bach 17D vs Denis Wick SM9
The Denis Wick SM9 has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick SM9 features a deeper cup, the Denis Wick SM9 has a larger throat opening.
Cup Diameter
The Denis Wick SM9 has a cup diameter of 25.00 mm / 0.9843 in compared to 24.20 mm / 0.9528 in on the Bach 17D — a difference of 0.80 mm / 0.0315 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Denis Wick SM9 has a medium cup while the Bach 17D 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 SM9 has a wider throat (6.66 mm / 0.2622 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.