Denis Wick SM4 vs Schilke 38D
The Denis Wick SM4 has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick SM4 features a deeper cup.
Mouthpiece A
Denis Wick SM4
• Baritone / Euphonium
Cup diameter26.00 mm / 1.0236 in
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width6.72 mm / 0.2646 in
Throat diameter7.38 mm / 0.2906 in
Backborebarrel
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
High-volume projection — open throat for power
vs
Mouthpiece B
Schilke 38D
• Baritone / Euphonium
Cup diameter19.73 mm / 0.7768 in
Cup depthMedium
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Cup Diameter
The Denis Wick SM4 has a cup diameter of 26.00 mm / 1.0236 in compared to 19.73 mm / 0.7768 in on the Schilke 38D — a difference of 6.27 mm / 0.2469 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Denis Wick SM4 has a very deep cup while the Schilke 38D has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.
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.