Bach 8½A vs Conn Connstellation 5BN
The Conn Connstellation 5BN has a wider cup diameter.
Mouthpiece A
Bach 8½A
• Cornet
Cup diameter16.10 mm / 0.6339 in
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width—
Throat diameter3.66 mm / 0.1441 in
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
vs
Mouthpiece B
Conn Connstellation 5BN
• Cornet
OrchestralCup diameter16.76 mm / 0.6598 in
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
MaterialSilver-plated brass
Best suited for
Trumpet players seeking precise matched dimensions
Size 5 (16.76mm); smaller cup; more compact tone; Narrow rim; smaller inner radius; sharper bite. Fa
Cup Diameter
The Conn Connstellation 5BN has a cup diameter of 16.76 mm / 0.6598 in compared to 16.10 mm / 0.6339 in on the Bach 8½A — a difference of 0.66 mm / 0.0260 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
Both mouthpieces share a very deep cup depth, so the sound character from depth alone will be very similar.
Material
The Bach 8½A is described as unspecified, and the Conn Connstellation 5BN as Silver-plated brass. Material affects mass, warmth, and how quickly the piece responds.
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.