Bach 18 vs Kelly 11

The Kelly 11 has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly 11 features a deeper cup, the Bach 18 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
      Kelly 11
      • French Horn
      General
      Cup diameter18.29 mm / 0.7201 in
      Cup depth
      Rim width
      Throat diameter3.66 mm / 0.1441 in
      BackboreS
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📋Large-rim French horn

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly 11 has a cup diameter of 18.29 mm / 0.7201 in compared to 16.15 mm / 0.6358 in on the Bach 18 — a difference of 2.14 mm / 0.0843 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly 11 has a — 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 Bach 18 has a wider throat (4.50 mm / 0.1772 in vs 3.66 mm / 0.1441 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      Material

      The Bach 18 is described as unspecified, and the Kelly 11 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 18 details Kelly 11 details Bach 18 equivalents Kelly 11 equivalents