Which has a bigger cup — Denis Wick 5AL or Kelly 12C?

The Denis Wick 5AL has a cup diameter of 25.73 mm / 1.0130 in compared to 24.13 mm / 0.9500 in on the Kelly 12C — a difference of 1.60 mm / 0.0630 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

How does cup depth compare between Denis Wick 5AL and Kelly 12C?

The Denis Wick 5AL has a medium cup while the Kelly 12C has a shallow cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

Denis Wick 5AL vs Kelly 12C

Name: Kelly 12C
Brand: Kelly

The Denis Wick 5AL has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 5AL 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 5AL

• Trombone

Throat diameter7.30 mm / 0.2874 in

Best suited for

📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

Mouthpiece B

Kelly 12C

• Trombone

Lead

Throat diameter—

Best suited for

📋Lead trombone; smallest cup

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 5AL vs Kelly 12C

Playing Characteristics

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What Changes If You Switch?

Which is better?

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