Kelly 18 vs Marcinkiewicz CH W1

The Marcinkiewicz CH W1 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
      Marcinkiewicz CH W1
      • Tuba
      Cup diameter33.66 mm / 1.3252 in
      Cup depthMedium
      Rim width
      Throat diameter7.67 mm / 0.3020 in
      Backbore
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Marcinkiewicz CH W1 has a cup diameter of 33.66 mm / 1.3252 in compared to 32.77 mm / 1.2902 in on the Kelly 18 — a difference of 0.89 mm / 0.0350 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 Marcinkiewicz CH W1 has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Material

      The Kelly 18 is described as Lexan polycarbonate, and the Marcinkiewicz CH W1 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 18 details Marcinkiewicz CH W1 details Kelly 18 equivalents Marcinkiewicz CH W1 equivalents