Bach 5A vs Curry 8.5 DC
The Bach 5A has a wider cup diameter, the Curry 8.5 DC has a larger throat opening.
Cup Diameter
The Bach 5A has a cup diameter of 16.25 mm / 0.6398 in compared to 16.23 mm / 0.6390 in on the Curry 8.5 DC — a difference of 0.02 mm / 0.0008 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
Both mouthpieces share a very deep cup depth, so the sound character from depth alone will be very similar.
Throat Diameter
The Curry 8.5 DC has a wider throat (3.81 mm / 0.1500 in vs 3.66 mm / 0.1441 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.