Denis Wick 4AY vs Denis Wick SM3.5
The Denis Wick SM3.5 has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick SM3.5 has a larger throat opening.
Mouthpiece A
Denis Wick 4AY
• Baritone / Euphonium
Cup diameter26.00 mm
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width6.72 mm
Throat diameter7.38 mm
Backboremedium
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
High-volume projection — open throat for power
vs
Mouthpiece B
Denis Wick SM3.5
• Baritone / Euphonium
Cup diameter26.40 mm
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width6.80 mm
Throat diameter7.62 mm
Backborebarrel
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
High-volume projection — open throat for power
Cup Diameter
The Denis Wick SM3.5 has a cup diameter of 26.40 mm compared to 26.00 mm on the Denis Wick 4AY — a difference of +0.40 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 SM3.5 has a wider throat (7.62 mm vs 7.38 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.