Bach 3 vs Schilke 57
The Schilke 57 has a wider cup diameter, the Bach 3 features a deeper cup, the Schilke 57 has a larger throat opening.
Cup Diameter
The Schilke 57 has a cup diameter of 26.52 mm / 1.0441 in compared to 26.26 mm / 1.0339 in on the Bach 3 — a difference of 0.26 mm / 0.0102 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Bach 3 has a deep cup while the Schilke 57 has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.
Throat Diameter
The Schilke 57 has a wider throat (5.95 mm / 0.2343 in vs 5.85 mm / 0.2303 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.