Kelly 24AW vs Kelly JACOBS-SS

The Kelly JACOBS-SS has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly 24AW features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    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
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Kelly JACOBS-SS
      • Tuba
      Orchestral
      Cup diameter31.75 mm / 1.2500 in
      Cup depthMedium
      Rim width
      Throat diameter
      BackboreL
      Finish
      Material316 Surgical Stainless Steel
      Best suited for
      📋Orchestral tuba; Arnold Jacobs model

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly JACOBS-SS has a cup diameter of 31.75 mm / 1.2500 in compared to 31.24 mm / 1.2299 in on the Kelly 24AW — a difference of 0.51 mm / 0.0201 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

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

      Material

      The Kelly 24AW is described as Lexan polycarbonate, and the Kelly JACOBS-SS as 316 Surgical Stainless Steel. Material affects mass, warmth, and how quickly the piece responds.

      Which is better?

      The Kelly 24AW is designed for general playing, while the Kelly JACOBS-SS targets orchestral use. Your best choice depends on your musical context.

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