Which has a bigger cup — Denis Wick 5AL or Yamaha SL-48DL?

The Denis Wick 5AL has a cup diameter of 25.73 mm / 1.0130 in compared to 25.25 mm / 0.9941 in on the Yamaha SL-48DL — a difference of 0.48 mm / 0.0189 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 Yamaha SL-48DL?

The Yamaha SL-48DL has a deep cup while the Denis Wick 5AL has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

Denis Wick 5AL vs Yamaha SL-48DL

Name: Yamaha SL-48DL
Brand: Yamaha

The Denis Wick 5AL has a wider cup diameter, the Yamaha SL-48DL features a deeper cup, the Denis Wick 5AL has a larger throat opening.

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 5AL

• Trombone

Rim width6.64 mm / 0.2614 in

Best suited for

📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

Mouthpiece B

Yamaha SL-48DL

• Trombone

Rim width—

Best suited for

🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone

📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

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 Yamaha SL-48DL

Playing Characteristics

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