Bach 18 vs Bruno Tilz 231-T 5

The Bruno Tilz 231-T 5 has a wider cup diameter, the Bruno Tilz 231-T 5 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
    • Tuba
    Cup diameter32.10 mm / 1.2638 in
    Cup depthMedium
    Rim width
    Throat diameter9.00 mm / 0.3543 in
    Backbore
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Bruno Tilz 231-T 5
      • Tuba
      Catalog
      Cup diameter35.00 mm / 1.3780 in
      Cup depthDeep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter7.80 mm / 0.3071 in
      Backbore
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Bruno Tilz 231-T 5 has a cup diameter of 35.00 mm / 1.3780 in compared to 32.10 mm / 1.2638 in on the Bach 18 — a difference of 2.90 mm / 0.1142 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Bruno Tilz 231-T 5 has a 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 Bach 18 has a wider throat (9.00 mm / 0.3543 in vs 7.80 mm / 0.3071 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 Bruno Tilz 231-T 5 details Bach 18 equivalents Bruno Tilz 231-T 5 equivalents