Bach 6½AL (large shank) vs Schilke 59

The Schilke 59 has a wider cup diameter, the Schilke 59 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Bach 6½AL (large shank)
    • Trombone
    Cup diameter25.40 mm / 1.0000 in
    Cup depthDeep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter6.63 mm / 0.2610 in
    Backbore
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Schilke 59
      • Trombone
      Cup diameter28.52 mm / 1.1228 in
      Cup depthDeep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter7.54 mm / 0.2969 in
      Backbore19/64.2969"
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Schilke 59 has a cup diameter of 28.52 mm / 1.1228 in compared to 25.40 mm / 1.0000 in on the Bach 6½AL (large shank) — a difference of 3.12 mm / 0.1228 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

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

      Throat Diameter

      The Schilke 59 has a wider throat (7.54 mm / 0.2969 in vs 6.63 mm / 0.2610 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.

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