Which has a bigger cup — Bach 6½A (small shank) or Schilke 52E2?

The Schilke 52E2 has a cup diameter of 25.91 mm / 1.0201 in compared to 25.40 mm / 1.0000 in on the Bach 6½A (small shank) — a difference of 0.51 mm / 0.0201 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

How does cup depth compare between Bach 6½A (small shank) and Schilke 52E2?

The Schilke 52E2 has a very deep cup while the Bach 6½A (small shank) has a deep cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

Bach 6½A (small shank) vs Schilke 52E2

Name: Schilke 52E2
Brand: Schilke

The Schilke 52E2 has a wider cup diameter, the Schilke 52E2 features a deeper cup.

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

Base metal or construction (e.g. brass, stainless steel, plastic). Influences weight, response, and tone color.

Mouthpiece A

Bach 6½A (small shank)

• Trombone

Material—

Best suited for

🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone

📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

Mouthpiece B

Schilke 52E2

• Trombone

Material—

Best suited for

🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone

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 6½A (small shank) details Schilke 52E2 details Bach 6½A (small shank) equivalents Schilke 52E2 equivalents

Bach 6½A (small shank) vs Schilke 52E2

Playing Characteristics

What Do These Model Names Mean?

What Changes If You Switch?

Which is better?

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