Bob Reeves 4G vs Denis Wick 5AL
The Bob Reeves 4G has a wider cup diameter, the Bob Reeves 4G features a deeper cup.
Mouthpiece A
Bob Reeves 4G
• Trombone
Cup diameter26.00 mm / 1.0236 in
Cup depthVery deep
Rim width—
Throat diameter—
Backbore—
Finish—
Material—
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
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 Bob Reeves 4G has a cup diameter of 26.00 mm / 1.0236 in compared to 25.73 mm / 1.0130 in on the Denis Wick 5AL — a difference of 0.27 mm / 0.0106 in. A wider cup generally produces a fuller, darker tone but requires more air support.
Cup Depth
The Bob Reeves 4G has a very deep cup while the Denis Wick 5AL 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.