Denis Wick 4B vs Kelly 5C

The Kelly 5C has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly 5C features a deeper cup, the Denis Wick 4B has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Denis Wick 4B
    • Cornet
    Cup diameter16.50 mm / 0.6496 in
    Cup depthMedium
    Rim width5.17 mm / 0.2035 in
    Throat diameter4.27 mm / 0.1681 in
    BackboreV-type
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    🎵All-round versatile — balanced cup for general playing
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Kelly 5C
      • Cornet
      General
      Cup diameter16.76 mm / 0.6598 in
      Cup depthVery deep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter3.80 mm / 0.1496 in
      BackboreM
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
      📋Mid-range all-purpose

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly 5C has a cup diameter of 16.76 mm / 0.6598 in compared to 16.50 mm / 0.6496 in on the Denis Wick 4B — a difference of 0.26 mm / 0.0102 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly 5C has a very deep cup while the Denis Wick 4B has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Denis Wick 4B has a wider throat (4.27 mm / 0.1681 in vs 3.80 mm / 0.1496 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      Material

      The Denis Wick 4B is described as unspecified, and the Kelly 5C 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 4B details Kelly 5C details Denis Wick 4B equivalents Kelly 5C equivalents