Which has a bigger cup — Denis Wick 2.5CC or Kelly 18?

The Kelly 18 has a cup diameter of 32.77 mm / 1.2902 in compared to 32.00 mm / 1.2598 in on the Denis Wick 2.5CC — a difference of 0.77 mm / 0.0303 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

How does cup depth compare between Denis Wick 2.5CC and Kelly 18?

The Kelly 18 has a — cup while the Denis Wick 2.5CC has a deep cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

Denis Wick 2.5CC vs Kelly 18

Name: Kelly 18
Brand: Kelly

The Kelly 18 has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly 18 features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material

The width of the rim surface that contacts the lips. Wider rims improve endurance; narrower rims improve flexibility.

Mouthpiece A

Denis Wick 2.5CC

• Tuba

Rim width7.20 mm / 0.2835 in

Best suited for

🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone

📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

Mouthpiece B

Kelly 18

• Tuba

General

Rim width—

Best suited for

🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone

📋Industry-standard tuba

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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Denis Wick 2.5CC vs Kelly 18

Playing Characteristics

What Do These Model Names Mean?

What Changes If You Switch?

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