Denis Wick 4AL vs Yamaha SL-48L-GP

The Denis Wick 4AL has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 4AL features a deeper cup, the Denis Wick 4AL has a larger throat opening.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Denis Wick 4AL
    • Trombone
    Cup diameter26.00 mm
    Cup depthVery deep
    Rim width6.72 mm
    Throat diameter7.38 mm
    Backborebarrel
    Finish
    Material
    Best suited for
    🎻Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
    📣High-volume projection — open throat for power
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Yamaha SL-48L-GP
      • Trombone
      Cup diameter25.25 mm
      Cup depthMedium
      Rim width
      Throat diameter6.62 mm
      BackboreSemi-narrow
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Denis Wick 4AL has a cup diameter of 26.00 mm compared to 25.25 mm on the Yamaha SL-48L-GP — a difference of +0.75 mm. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Denis Wick 4AL has a very deep cup while the Yamaha SL-48L-GP has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.

      Throat Diameter

      The Denis Wick 4AL has a wider throat (7.38 mm vs 6.62 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 Denis Wick 4AL details Yamaha SL-48L-GP details Denis Wick 4AL equivalents Yamaha SL-48L-GP equivalents