Kelly SKY-SS vs Yamaha SL-48S-GP

The Yamaha SL-48S-GP has a wider cup diameter, the Yamaha SL-48S-GP features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    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
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Yamaha SL-48S-GP
      • Trombone
      Cup diameter25.25 mm
      Cup depthMedium
      Rim width
      Throat diameter6.62 mm
      BackboreSemi-wide
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Yamaha SL-48S-GP has a cup diameter of 25.25 mm compared to 24.64 mm on the Kelly SKY-SS — a difference of +0.61 mm. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Yamaha SL-48S-GP 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 Kelly SKY-SS is described as 316 Surgical Stainless Steel, and the Yamaha SL-48S-GP 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 SKY-SS details Yamaha SL-48S-GP details Kelly SKY-SS equivalents Yamaha SL-48S-GP equivalents