Which has a bigger cup — Bach 6½AL (large shank) or Giardinelli 6D?

The Bach 6½AL (large shank) has a cup diameter of 25.40 mm / 1.0000 in compared to 24.50 mm / 0.9646 in on the Giardinelli 6D — a difference of 0.90 mm / 0.0354 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

How does cup depth compare between Bach 6½AL (large shank) and Giardinelli 6D?

Both mouthpieces share a deep cup depth, so the sound character from depth alone will be very similar.

Bach 6½AL (large shank) vs Giardinelli 6D

Name: Giardinelli 6D
Brand: Giardinelli

The Bach 6½AL (large shank) has a wider cup diameter, the Bach 6½AL (large shank) has a larger throat opening.

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

The taper behind the throat leading to the shank. Affects projection and tone character.

Mouthpiece A

Bach 6½AL (large shank)

• Trombone

Backbore—

Best suited for

🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone

📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

Mouthpiece B

Giardinelli 6D

• Trombone

Backbore15/64" (.234)

Best suited for

🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone

📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

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 6½AL (large shank) details Giardinelli 6D details Bach 6½AL (large shank) equivalents Giardinelli 6D equivalents

Bach 6½AL (large shank) vs Giardinelli 6D

Playing Characteristics

What Do These Model Names Mean?

What Changes If You Switch?

Which is better?

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