Bach 6½AL (small shank) vs Schilke 38D
The Bach 6½AL (small shank) has a wider cup diameter, the Bach 6½AL (small shank) features a deeper cup.
Mouthpiece A
Bach 6½AL (small shank)
• Baritone / Euphonium
Cup diameter25.40 mm / 1.0000 in
Cup depthDeep
Rim width—
Throat diameter6.63 mm / 0.2610 in
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
High-volume projection — open throat for power
vs
Mouthpiece B
Schilke 38D
• Baritone / Euphonium
Cup diameter19.73 mm / 0.7768 in
Cup depthMedium
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Cup Diameter
The Bach 6½AL (small shank) has a cup diameter of 25.40 mm / 1.0000 in compared to 19.73 mm / 0.7768 in on the Schilke 38D — a difference of 5.67 mm / 0.2232 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Bach 6½AL (small shank) has a deep cup while the Schilke 38D has a medium cup. Deeper cups favor a darker, richer sound; shallower cups provide more brightness and easier upper register.
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.