Bob Reeves 11C vs Denis Wick 5AL

The Denis Wick 5AL has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 5AL features a deeper cup.

Overall Comparison Cup Diameter Cup Depth Rim Width Throat Diameter Backbore Finish Material
Mouthpiece A
    Bob Reeves 11C
    • Trombone
    Cup diameter24.80 mm / 0.9764 in
    Cup depthShallow
    Rim width
    Throat diameter
    Backbore
    Finish
    Material
    vs
    Mouthpiece B
      Denis Wick 5AL
      • Trombone
      Cup diameter25.73 mm / 1.0130 in
      Cup depthMedium
      Rim width6.64 mm / 0.2614 in
      Throat diameter7.30 mm / 0.2874 in
      Backborebarrel
      Finish
      Material
      Best suited for
      📣High-volume projection — open throat for power

      Cup Diameter

      The Denis Wick 5AL has a cup diameter of 25.73 mm / 1.0130 in compared to 24.80 mm / 0.9764 in on the Bob Reeves 11C — a difference of 0.93 mm / 0.0366 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.

      Cup Depth

      The Denis Wick 5AL has a medium cup while the Bob Reeves 11C has a shallow 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.

      Open in interactive tool + Add third mouthpiece Bob Reeves 11C details Denis Wick 5AL details Bob Reeves 11C equivalents Denis Wick 5AL equivalents