Bach 18D vs Bach 8½BW
The Bach 8½BW has a wider cup diameter.
Mouthpiece A
Bach 18D
• Baritone / Euphonium
Cup diameter24.20 mm
Cup depthShallow
Rim width—
Throat diameter5.85 mm
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
High-volume projection — open throat for power
vs
Mouthpiece B
Bach 8½BW
• Baritone / Euphonium
Cup diameter24.75 mm
Cup depthShallow
Rim width—
Throat diameter5.85 mm
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
High-volume projection — open throat for power
Cup Diameter
The Bach 8½BW has a cup diameter of 24.75 mm compared to 24.20 mm on the Bach 18D — a difference of +0.55 mm. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
Both mouthpieces share a shallow cup depth, so the sound character from depth alone will be very similar.
Throat Diameter
Throat diameters are essentially identical at 5.85 mm, so resistance feel will be comparable.
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.