Kelly 24AW vs Kelly X-SMALL

The Kelly 24AW 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 X-SMALL
      • Tuba
      Student
      Cup diameter30.73 mm / 1.2098 in
      Cup depthShallow
      Rim width
      Throat diameter
      BackboreS
      Finish
      MaterialLexan polycarbonate
      Best suited for
      📋Student / Eb tuba / euphonium doubler

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly 24AW has a cup diameter of 31.24 mm / 1.2299 in compared to 30.73 mm / 1.2098 in on the Kelly X-SMALL — 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 X-SMALL has a shallow 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?

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

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