Bach 22D vs Schilke 43A
The Bach 22D has a wider cup diameter, the Schilke 43A features a deeper cup, the Schilke 43A has a larger throat opening.
Cup Diameter
The Bach 22D has a cup diameter of 23.92 mm / 0.9417 in compared to 23.57 mm / 0.9280 in on the Schilke 43A — a difference of 0.35 mm / 0.0138 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Schilke 43A has a medium cup while the Bach 22D has a shallow cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.
Throat Diameter
The Schilke 43A has a wider throat (5.95 mm / 0.2343 in vs 5.85 mm / 0.2303 in). 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.