Which has a bigger cup — Kelly 12C or Schilke 45B?

The Schilke 45B has a cup diameter of 24.30 mm / 0.9567 in compared to 24.13 mm / 0.9500 in on the Kelly 12C — a difference of 0.17 mm / 0.0067 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

How does cup depth compare between Kelly 12C and Schilke 45B?

The Schilke 45B 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.

Kelly 12C vs Schilke 45B

Name: Schilke 45B
Brand: Schilke

The Schilke 45B has a wider cup diameter, the Schilke 45B features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material

Base metal or construction (e.g. brass, stainless steel, plastic). Influences weight, response, and tone color.

Mouthpiece A

Kelly 12C

• Trombone

Lead

MaterialLexan polycarbonate

Best suited for

📋Lead trombone; smallest cup

Mouthpiece B

Schilke 45B

• Trombone

Material—

Best suited for

📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

Material

The Kelly 12C is described as Lexan polycarbonate, and the Schilke 45B as unspecified. Material affects mass, warmth, and how quickly the piece responds.

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.

Open in interactive tool + Add third mouthpiece Kelly 12C details Schilke 45B details Kelly 12C equivalents Schilke 45B equivalents

Kelly 12C vs Schilke 45B

Material

Playing Characteristics

What Do These Model Names Mean?

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