Which has a bigger cup — Kelly 18 or Schilke S-H?

The Kelly 18 has a cup diameter of 32.77 mm / 1.2902 in compared to 31.84 mm / 1.2535 in on the Schilke S-H — a difference of 0.93 mm / 0.0366 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

How does cup depth compare between Kelly 18 and Schilke S-H?

The Kelly 18 has a — cup while the Schilke S-H has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

Kelly 18 vs Schilke S-H

Name: Schilke S-H
Brand: Schilke

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

The width of the rim surface that contacts the lips. Wider rims improve endurance; narrower rims improve flexibility.

Mouthpiece A

Kelly 18

• Tuba

General

Rim width—

Best suited for

🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone

📋Industry-standard tuba

Mouthpiece B

Schilke S-H

• Tuba

Rim width—

Best suited for

📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

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 Schilke S-H details Kelly 18 equivalents Schilke S-H equivalents

Kelly 18 vs Schilke S-H

Playing Characteristics

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What Changes If You Switch?

Which is better?

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