Kelly 6-1/2AL-LS-SS vs Yamaha SL-48DL

The Yamaha SL-48DL has a wider cup diameter, the Kelly 6-1/2AL-LS-SS features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Kelly 6-1/2AL-LS-SS
    • Trombone
    General
    Cup diameter25.15 mm / 0.9902 in
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter
    BackboreM
    Finish
    Material316 Surgical Stainless Steel
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📋Standard large-shank trombone / euphonium
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Yamaha SL-48DL
      • Trombone
      Cup diameter25.25 mm / 0.9941 in
      Cup depthDeep
      Rim width
      Throat diameter6.62 mm / 0.2606 in
      BackboreSemi-narrow
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Yamaha SL-48DL has a cup diameter of 25.25 mm / 0.9941 in compared to 25.15 mm / 0.9902 in on the Kelly 6-1/2AL-LS-SS — a difference of 0.10 mm / 0.0039 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Kelly 6-1/2AL-LS-SS has a very deep cup while the Yamaha SL-48DL has a deep cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Material

      The Kelly 6-1/2AL-LS-SS is described as 316 Surgical Stainless Steel, and the Yamaha SL-48DL 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 6-1/2AL-LS-SS details Yamaha SL-48DL details Kelly 6-1/2AL-LS-SS equivalents Yamaha SL-48DL equivalents