Which has a bigger cup — Bach 6½AM (large shank) or Yamaha SL-48DL?

The Bach 6½AM (large shank) has a cup diameter of 25.40 mm / 1.0000 in compared to 25.25 mm / 0.9941 in on the Yamaha SL-48DL — a difference of 0.15 mm / 0.0059 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

How does cup depth compare between Bach 6½AM (large shank) and Yamaha SL-48DL?

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

Bach 6½AM (large shank) vs Yamaha SL-48DL

Name: Yamaha SL-48DL
Brand: Yamaha

The Bach 6½AM (large shank) has a wider cup diameter, the Yamaha SL-48DL 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 6½AM (large shank)

• Trombone

Backbore—

Best suited for

🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone

📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

Mouthpiece B

Yamaha SL-48DL

• Trombone

BackboreSemi-narrow

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 6½AM (large shank) details Yamaha SL-48DL details Bach 6½AM (large shank) equivalents Yamaha SL-48DL equivalents

Bach 6½AM (large shank) vs Yamaha SL-48DL

Playing Characteristics

What Do These Model Names Mean?

What Changes If You Switch?

Which is better?

Compare Bach 6½AM (large shank) with others

Compare Yamaha SL-48DL with others

Popular Trombone comparisons

Bach vs Yamaha

Browse by specification