Kelly 18 vs Kelly 24AW

The Kelly 18 has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly 18 features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Kelly 18
    • Tuba
    General
    Cup diameter32.77 mm / 1.2902 in
    Cup depth
    Rim width
    Throat diameter
    BackboreM
    Finish
    MaterialLexan polycarbonate
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📋Industry-standard tuba
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Kelly 24AW
      • Tuba
      General
      Cup diameter31.24 mm / 1.2299 in
      Cup depthVery deep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter
      BackboreXL
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📋Tuba / sousaphone

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly 18 has a cup diameter of 32.77 mm / 1.2902 in compared to 31.24 mm / 1.2299 in on the Kelly 24AW — a difference of 1.53 mm / 0.0602 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly 18 has a — cup while the Kelly 24AW has a very deep cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Material

      Both mouthpieces share the same listed material (Lexan polycarbonate).

      Which is better?

      Both mouthpieces are categorized as "General" — the physical dimensions above will determine which suits your embouchure and playing style better.

      Open in interactive tool + Add third mouthpiece Kelly 18 details Kelly 24AW details Kelly 18 equivalents Kelly 24AW equivalents