Curry 4M Small Shank vs Yamaha SL-48DL

The Curry 4M Small Shank has a wider cup diameter, the Yamaha SL-48DL features a deeper cup, the Yamaha SL-48DL has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Curry 4M Small Shank
    • Trombone
    Cup diameter25.73 mm / 1.0130 in
    Cup depthMedium
    Rim width
    Throat diameter6.53 mm / 0.2570 in
    Backbore
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Yamaha SL-48DL
      • Trombone
      Cup diameter25.25 mm / 0.9941 in
      Cup depthDeep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter6.62 mm / 0.2606 in
      BackboreSemi-narrow
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Curry 4M Small Shank has a cup diameter of 25.73 mm / 1.0130 in compared to 25.25 mm / 0.9941 in on the Yamaha SL-48DL — a difference of 0.48 mm / 0.0189 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Yamaha SL-48DL has a deep cup while the Curry 4M Small Shank has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Yamaha SL-48DL has a wider throat (6.62 mm / 0.2606 in vs 6.53 mm / 0.2570 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.

      Open in interactive tool + Add third mouthpiece Curry 4M Small Shank details Yamaha SL-48DL details Curry 4M Small Shank equivalents Yamaha SL-48DL equivalents