Which has a bigger cup — Denis Wick 2L 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 2L — 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 2L and Kelly 18?

The Kelly 18 has a — cup while the Denis Wick 2L has a very deep cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

Denis Wick 2L 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 narrowest point at the bottom of the cup. Affects resistance, volume, and tone color.

Mouthpiece A

Denis Wick 2L

• Tuba

Throat diameter8.45 mm / 0.3327 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

Throat diameter—

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 2L vs Kelly 18

Playing Characteristics

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