Bach 6½AL (large shank) vs Schilke 44E4
The Bach 6½AL (large shank) has a wider cup diameter, the Schilke 44E4 features a deeper cup, the Bach 6½AL (large shank) has a larger throat opening.
Cup Diameter
The Bach 6½AL (large shank) has a cup diameter of 25.40 mm / 1.0000 in compared to 24.28 mm / 0.9559 in on the Schilke 44E4 — a difference of 1.12 mm / 0.0441 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Schilke 44E4 has a very deep cup while the Bach 6½AL (large shank) has a deep cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.
Throat Diameter
The Bach 6½AL (large shank) has a wider throat (6.63 mm / 0.2610 in vs 5.95 mm / 0.2343 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.