Bach 16 vs Yamaha HR-SOMMERVILLE

The Yamaha HR-SOMMERVILLE has a wider cup diameter, the Bach 16 features a deeper cup, the Bach 16 has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Bach 16
    • French Horn
    Cup diameter16.25 mm
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width
    Throat diameter4.50 mm
    Backbore
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Yamaha HR-SOMMERVILLE
      • French Horn
      Cup diameter16.93 mm
      Cup depthMedium
      Rim width
      Throat diameter4.30 mm
      BackboreStandard
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Yamaha HR-SOMMERVILLE has a cup diameter of 16.93 mm compared to 16.25 mm on the Bach 16 — a difference of +0.68 mm. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Bach 16 has a very deep cup while the Yamaha HR-SOMMERVILLE has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Bach 16 has a wider throat (4.50 mm vs 4.30 mm). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.

      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 Bach 16 details Yamaha HR-SOMMERVILLE details Bach 16 equivalents Yamaha HR-SOMMERVILLE equivalents