Bach 8½A vs Denis Wick 5
The Bach 8½A has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 5 has a larger throat opening.
Mouthpiece A
Bach 8½A
• Cornet
Cup diameter16.10 mm
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width—
Throat diameter3.66 mm
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
vs
Mouthpiece B
Denis Wick 5
• Cornet
Cup diameter16.00 mm
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width5.30 mm
Throat diameter4.45 mm
Backboreopen
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
High-volume projection — open throat for power
Cup Diameter
The Bach 8½A has a cup diameter of 16.10 mm compared to 16.00 mm on the Denis Wick 5 — a difference of +0.10 mm. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
Both mouthpieces share a very deep cup depth, so the sound character from depth alone will be very similar.
Throat Diameter
The Denis Wick 5 has a wider throat (4.45 mm vs 3.66 mm). 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.