Bach 18 vs Kelly 24AW

The Bach 18 has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly 24AW features a deeper cup.

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
      Kelly 24AW
      • Tuba
      General
      Cup diameter31.24 mm / 1.2299 in
      Cup depthVery deep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter
      BackboreXL
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📋Tuba / sousaphone

      Cup Diameter

      The Bach 18 has a cup diameter of 32.10 mm / 1.2638 in compared to 31.24 mm / 1.2299 in on the Kelly 24AW — a difference of 0.86 mm / 0.0339 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly 24AW 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.

      Material

      The Bach 18 is described as unspecified, and the Kelly 24AW 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 24AW details Bach 18 equivalents Kelly 24AW equivalents