Which has a bigger cup — Bach 3CW or Bach 8½A?

The Bach 3CW has a cup diameter of 16.30 mm / 0.6417 in compared to 16.10 mm / 0.6339 in on the Bach 8½A — a difference of 0.20 mm / 0.0079 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

How does cup depth compare between Bach 3CW and Bach 8½A?

The Bach 8½A has a very deep cup while the Bach 3CW has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

Bach 3CW vs Bach 8½A

Name: Bach 8½A
Brand: Bach

The Bach 3CW has a wider cup diameter, the Bach 8½A features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material

The narrowest point at the bottom of the cup. Affects resistance, volume, and tone color.

Mouthpiece A

Bach 3CW

• Cornet

Throat diameter3.66 mm / 0.1441 in

Best suited for

🎵All-round versatile — balanced cup for general playing

Mouthpiece B

Bach 8½A

• Cornet

Throat diameter3.66 mm / 0.1441 in

Throat Diameter

Throat diameters are essentially identical at 3.66 mm / 0.1441 in, 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.

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Bach 3CW vs Bach 8½A

Throat Diameter

Playing Characteristics

What Do These Model Names Mean?

What Changes If You Switch?

Which is better?

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