Denis Wick 1 vs Kelly 25

The Denis Wick 1 has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 1 features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Denis Wick 1
    • Tuba
    Cup diameter32.50 mm / 1.2795 in
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width7.48 mm / 0.2945 in
    Throat diameter8.43 mm / 0.3319 in
    Backboreopen
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Kelly 25
      • Tuba
      General
      Cup diameter30.99 mm / 1.2201 in
      Cup depthMedium
      Rim width
      Throat diameter
      BackboreM
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      📋General tuba / euphonium doubler

      Cup Diameter

      The Denis Wick 1 has a cup diameter of 32.50 mm / 1.2795 in compared to 30.99 mm / 1.2201 in on the Kelly 25 — a difference of 1.51 mm / 0.0594 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Denis Wick 1 has a very deep cup while the Kelly 25 has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Material

      The Denis Wick 1 is described as unspecified, and the Kelly 25 as Lexan polycarbonate. 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.

      Open in interactive tool + Add third mouthpiece Denis Wick 1 details Kelly 25 details Denis Wick 1 equivalents Kelly 25 equivalents