Denis Wick 12CS vs Kelly SKY-SS

The Kelly SKY-SS has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 12CS features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Denis Wick 12CS
    • Trombone
    Cup diameter24.50 mm
    Cup depthMedium
    Rim width6.71 mm
    Throat diameter6.10 mm
    BackboreV-type
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Kelly SKY-SS
      • Trombone
      Lead
      Cup diameter24.64 mm
      Cup depthShallow
      Rim width
      Throat diameter
      BackboreS
      Finish
      Material316 Surgical Stainless Steel
      Best suited for
      📋Professional lead trombone

      Cup Diameter

      The Kelly SKY-SS has a cup diameter of 24.64 mm compared to 24.50 mm on the Denis Wick 12CS — a difference of +0.14 mm. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Denis Wick 12CS has a medium cup while the Kelly SKY-SS has a shallow cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Material

      The Denis Wick 12CS is described as unspecified, and the Kelly SKY-SS as 316 Surgical Stainless Steel. 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 Denis Wick 12CS details Kelly SKY-SS details Denis Wick 12CS equivalents Kelly SKY-SS equivalents