Bach 18 vs Denis Wick 4N

The Denis Wick 4N has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 4N features a deeper cup, the Denis Wick 4N has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Bach 18
    • French Horn
    Cup diameter16.15 mm / 0.6358 in
    Cup depthMedium
    Rim width
    Throat diameter4.50 mm / 0.1772 in
    Backbore
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    🎵All-round versatile — balanced cup for general playing
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Denis Wick 4N
      • French Horn
      Cup diameter18.00 mm / 0.7087 in
      Cup depthVery deep
      Rim width3.92 mm / 0.1543 in
      Throat diameter4.70 mm / 0.1850 in
      Backborebarrel
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Denis Wick 4N has a cup diameter of 18.00 mm / 0.7087 in compared to 16.15 mm / 0.6358 in on the Bach 18 — a difference of 1.85 mm / 0.0728 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Denis Wick 4N has a very deep cup while the Bach 18 has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Denis Wick 4N has a wider throat (4.70 mm / 0.1850 in vs 4.50 mm / 0.1772 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.

      Open in interactive tool + Add third mouthpiece Bach 18 details Denis Wick 4N details Bach 18 equivalents Denis Wick 4N equivalents