12 Best Trombone Mouthpieces – Reviews & Analysis

 

Top Mouthpieces for Trombone – Guide & Comparison

 

If you are looking for the best trombone mouthpiece, but you’ve been out of luck so far, this short paragraph will help you decide on a good quality option. Our researchers put together a comprehensive buying guide you can read below, but if you’re pressed for time, the information you seek is right here. The Cecilio Trombone Mouthpiece 12C is the model identified by our team as being on top of the list after comparing customer reviews, sales figures, and expert opinions on such products. An essential aspect of this model is that it comes silver-plated, so you will enjoy deep rich sounds when playing. It is a versatile mouthpiece that can be used for a euphonium just as well, so you get more than expected for the money. Because of the shank size, it is ideal for beginners and people who want to practice in perfect comfort. In case you cannot find this mouthpiece anymore, the Bach Trombone Mouthpiece 6 1/2AL is a close second.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

12 Best Trombone Mouthpieces (Updated Reviews) in 2021

 

 

The large variety of options present on the market makes it difficult for any buyer to get the correct trombone mouthpiece. For this reason, we present the following list of popular products currently available. See their ups and downs and make an informed decision.

 

 

1. Cecilio Trombone Mouthpiece 12C 

 

Even if you are looking for one of the cheap trombone mouthpieces now available, don’t forget that quality is paramount, and you shouldn’t sacrifice everything for the sake of a tight budget. The good news is that you can find a model such as this one from Cecilio, made for people who don’t have a lot of money to spare for such an accessory.

For the price, the mouthpiece looks great, with silver plating on the exterior so that you don’t have to worry about brass allergies for even a moment. At the same time, this choice helps you achieve deep, rich sounds with greater ease, and you will notice the difference in the harmonies you play right from the get-go.

It is a 12C model, so ideal mainly for practice or as a spare. Because it’s versatile and can be used for a euphonium, too, you may find it an excellent deal for the money.

 

Pros

The trombone piece will help you achieve a deeper, richer sound than other models and play harmonies like never before.

Due to its silver-plating construction, you won’t have to worry about brass allergies, which can be quite common among players.

Its small shank recommends it for beginners who need to develop the correct position of the lips when they practice.

Another thing that highly recommends this option is its versatility; if you play the euphonium, you will be able to switch the mouthpieces with your trombone without a glitch.

 

Cons

The size is not etched on it, as it happens with other brands, making room for confusion if you have multiple mouthpieces.

You will only get a standard mouthpiece and nothing else, so don’t expect it to outperform models made by more prestigious brands that come at a higher price.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($9.99)

 

 

 

2. Bach Trombone Mouthpiece 6 1/2AL 

 

Bach is a company with an outstanding reputation among musicians, and its mouthpieces made for trombones are another proof of its superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. The medium depth cup indicates it as an option for beginners, but there is something that must be mentioned.

Compared to other similar medium depth cups on the market, this one is larger, which means that it could help you make the transition to a large mouthpiece at a later date easier. It is a trombone mouthpiece for high notes, and that means that you will find it ideal for playing jazz pieces, which is great to begin with.

In case you have a euphonium at home, you’ll be happy to hear that this mouthpiece fits it like a charm. You don’t have to purchase multiple mouthpieces for different instruments when you have such a comfortable, versatile option at your disposal.

 

Pros

The generous medium-deep cup makes this mouthpiece an excellent transitional option when you train to switch from being a novice to an intermediate player.

It comes with a small shank, which indicates that it’s destined for beginners to get their bearings when they must develop embouchure control.

Created by a manufacturer with a long-standing tradition of making such accessories, it is the correct option when you have enough money to afford such a mouthpiece.

You will be pleasantly surprised by the large volume it provides, which means you will feel more confident in playing difficult pieces.

 

Cons

From the start, you will realize that this model is indicated for novices who need to train their embouchure strength and not for intermediates who have to focus on endurance.

Due to its use scope and price range, you might not consider it good value, as you may outgrow it in just one year of regular training.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($68)

 

 

 

3. Blessing Trombone Mouthpiece MPC65ALTRB 

 

From all the trombone mouthpiece reviews you will read about this particular model, you will glean a few important points. Since we know that you don’t have the time to go through them, we compiled these points here for your perusal. For starters, this model is a good deal since it can be used for euphoniums and baritones, too.

However, what matters even more is the high quality of the accessory, given its price range. Because of the superior sound quality you will notice right away, one can safely say that it exceeds any expectations people might have after seeing how much it costs.

A lot of attention to detail was invested in designing this piece, and knowing that it is produced in the US and Germany will give you peace of mind regarding the overall build durability. You will get more than what you paid for, without a doubt.

 

Pros

You will get to play using a mouthpiece inspired by the experience and expertise of notable players such as Buff Dillard, Robert Dorer, and Dominick Farinacci.

The high versatility of this design makes it a fine choice if you play the euphonium or baritone, as well, so you will get a good value for your money.

Its high quality and durability are ensured by the manufacturing process that takes place in locations from Florida and Germany.

Overall, you will find this model an excellent value due to how well it performs even outside your daily practice sessions.

 

Cons

The overall sound range is somewhat reduced, so you won’t attain truly high or low notes, as you would be when playing with more expensive models.

Bear in mind that the shank is a bit on the long side, which might prove uncomfortable for some people.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($43.95)

 

 

 

4. Andoer Alto Trombone Mouthpiece 6.5AL 

 

If you are looking for an excellent mouthpiece that helps you attain high notes without a glitch, this model might be an option for you. As you can quickly tell, it is a mouthpiece that comes with a small shank, and it’s geared toward beginners who need to practice correct embouchure techniques for proper control.

While it is decently priced, it comes with a gold plating that offers it not only a beautiful appearance but makes it ideal for people with brass allergies. The overall smooth tone of this mouthpiece highly recommends it. You will also notice that the sound becomes fuller and louder, helping when you practice as a beginner.

In regards to its durability, you will notice right away that it’s a sturdy mouthpiece, well made, with plenty of attention to detail. For the price, it offers excellent value, and you won’t regret your investment.

 

Pros

For alto trombones, this mouthpiece is an excellent deal, as you will notice that the sounds produced are loud, without putting excruciating effort into it.

The sound remains smooth, despite the loud volume, which helps beginners who need to practice a lot to achieve such results.

Its construction is highly durable, and you will notice that the overall sturdiness is superior compared to other models on the market.

For the price, it doesn’t have a lot of competition, and you will find it ideal for daily practice.

You can choose from silver and gold plating options.

 

Cons

This mouthpiece doesn’t seal well around the pipe, and that may cause some air to go through, which you will notice in the way you play.

Playing B flat on this mouthpiece appears to be a bit of a challenge, although other notes don’t face the same struggle.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($11.99)

 

 

 

5. Yamaha 48 Small Shank Trombone Mouthpiece 

 

Although the small shank might recommend it only for beginners, it is a good option for any professional player. It is all about the attention paid to details, and it appears that Yamaha spared nothing when designing this particular item. The rim and cup are well-balanced, so not even the most pretentious players won’t have anything to say against its performance.

While other manufacturers use silver plating for their models, you will notice a difference when looking at this particular option. The silver plating is considerably thicker, and that means that its value is superior, too. This type of plating ensures that you will achieve a richer sound while playing, and that counts a lot when you want your music to sound smoother.

Using computer technology in the designing and manufacturing process, Yamaha ensures that you will get a precision-built mouthpiece for your trombone.

 

Pros

Although it is advertised as a mouthpiece for beginners, you will find it an excellent all-around option, and even professional players will opt for it as a good alternative or spare.

It is beneficial for beginners who must focus on mastering various skills and techniques; this mouthpiece offers the easiest way to achieve that.

This mouthpiece works great on various trombone models and doesn’t let the air go around the pipe, thus avoiding any compromises.

The thick silver plating ensures that you won’t experience any hygiene problems, and the brass is well covered to prevent allergies.

 

Cons

You will notice that this mouthpiece doesn’t come with many bells and whistles, which might have been expected from the brand and for the price.

There are no options to choose from regarding the plating, which means you have no flexibility in deciding how your music will sound when played with this mouthpiece attached to your trombone.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($46.99)

 

 

 

6. Glory Professional Trombone Mouthpiece 12c 

 

If you’re looking for a cheap trombone mouthpiece, you don’t have to look any further. Simply put, this model comes with a price tag that no competition can beat. While that may make you think that it lacks in other areas, the truth is that it delivers more than you would expect for the price.

It is a 12C model and perfect for a beginner. Seeing how such mouthpieces, destined for practice, are used for around a year and no longer than that, it’s easy to see that getting a decently priced option is highly recommended. It is made for alto trombones, and it comes with a silver plating to prevent brass allergies.

The use of computer technology in designing and manufacturing the piece guarantees that you get a precision cut accessory that will fit your trombone like a charm. You will find the mouthpiece easy to clean.

 

Pros

Because of the silver plating, the mouthpiece won’t be exposed to bacteria and germs, although regular cleaning is still required.

Beginners will find this model a good option for their needs, as the same silver plating will help them achieve louder, deeper sounds.

The precise manufacturing and craftsmanship are commendable and make this mouthpiece a competitive product that can proudly stand side by side with pricier options.

You cannot beat the price, as this model is among the cheapest you can find right now.

Even if it is ideal for beginners, you will discover that keeping one as a spare is a good option in the long run.

 

Cons

The silver plating is nice to have, but it might not last for a long time, and you may notice signs of discoloration after some time.

The mouthpiece will appear to struggle on some notes, but that may happen because of the necessary time to get adjusted to the new model.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($5.99)

 

 

 

7. Vincent Bach Trombone Mouthpiece 3415G 

 

Vincent Bach is renowned for making excellent mouthpieces, and any trombone mouthpiece review of its products will confirm that. It is not your average mouthpiece, and you can say that just by looking at it. While many of the models presented so far were either versatile or made for beginners, this one has a clear scope.

Its 5G size says a lot about it. After perfecting embouchure as novices, intermediate and advanced players need larger mouthpieces to control the volume and airflow. This mouthpiece helps them achieve the next stage in their skill and performance through its design and construction.

The cup is deep, and the rim is medium wide and semi-flat, to give you some ideas about how it is constructed. The manufacturer mentions that the cup diameter was picked to fit the sonority preferred by the American school of music.

 

Pros

It comes with a large shank, making it an excellent option for trombone players who are either intermediates or even professionals.

With a deep cup and a medium-wide rim, it is clearly designed to help musicians develop their skills and techniques beyond the ones they mastered as beginners.

The silver plating is one of the main advantages offered by this model, as it makes sure to keep bacteria and germs away with regular cleaning and maintenance.

Also, due to the silver-plated construction, you will notice that the sounds you produce with your trombone are richer and louder.

 

Cons

Make sure that you keep in mind that this model is created for a large bore trombone and won’t fit other models.

It is quite expensive, so not exactly a good fit for someone looking for a cheap model indicated for beginners.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($76)

 

 

 

8. Schilke Trombone Mouthpiece 51D Silver 

 

While you may notice right away that the price tag attached to this model is higher than what you usually see, there’s a strong reason for it. This model is not intended for beginners, although they can use it, and it comes with a large shank. Its size helps develop control over air volume while playing the trombone, a skill achieved by intermediates and professionals after mastering their embouchure techniques.

Everything about this mouthpiece spells quality. It has a durable construction, and it comes with a thick silver plating to repel bacteria and germs while preventing brass allergies at the same time.

Ideal for tenor trombones, baritones, and euphoniums, it is a versatile option you should consider in case you play multiple instruments. It must be mentioned that this model is great for achieving more resonant, darker sounds than other alternatives offered by the same manufacturer.

 

Pros

The durable construction of this mouthpiece highly recommends it, and you know you’re making a sound investment when you opt for a model made by Schilke.

You will notice that this model comes with a thick silver plating that ensures good hygiene with proper cleaning against bacteria and germs.

Attaining deeper, richer sounds when playing various pieces is a breeze due to the excellent craftsmanship of this mouthpiece.

Although you can say that this option is destined for professional use, beginners will find it an excellent alternative to progress in their training.

It is a versatile piece and can be used on a euphonium, as well.

 

Cons

It is quite an expensive mouthpiece, compared to others on the market, so that’s something to bear in mind if you are shopping on a budget.

There is no clear indication that this model is made for large bore trombones, which may cause confusion among the buyers.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($70)

 

 

 

9. ammoon Alto Trombone Mouthpiece 6 1/2AL 

 

When you’re searching for affordable trombone mouthpieces, make sure to take a look at this model. It is created for alto trombones, and its configuration recommends it for novices who need to perfect their embouchure techniques. While it may not be prepared for stage performances, it is excellent as a spare, as well as for regular training.

The plating is nickel-copper, which reflects in the price that’s kept low by the material used in making it. At a closer look, you will notice the small shank that makes it an acceptable option for beginners. In terms of how it plays, you will be happy to discover that it performs well for its price tag.

It fits alto trombones and euphoniums, so it’s a versatile product you may like to try. Overall, it offers good quality for the price, and there aren’t many other mouthpieces on the market that can rival it.

 

Pros

Beginners will find this model an excellent option for their instruments since it comes with a small shank.

At the same time, its medium-sized cup makes it an excellent alternative to other models that aren’t as capable of providing a perfect transition to professional mouthpieces.

It is decently priced, and for its intended purpose, it goes beyond the call of duty, so musicians shopping on a budget will appreciate it.

Another thing you will like about it is that it can be used as a spare, even if you are already a professional trombone player.

 

Cons

The plating is not the best you can find, and there is a possibility that it will wear off faster than what you can see in other models.

It might get stuck in the pipe once in a while, which means that some details might have been overlooked during the manufacturing process.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($15.99)

 

 

 

10. FarBoat Alto Trombone Mouthpiece 12C 

 

Another affordable trombone mouthpiece that makes it to our selection is this model from FarBoat. It is a 12C model, so it’s a good choice for novices who want to train every day. Due to the price tag, it is a budget option and one that could work for professional players, too.

It is made from copper and covered by gold plating, so it is beautiful. For this reason, you might consider offering it as a gift to a musician in the making. Several things make beginners love it so much. For starters, it produces loud sounds, so they don’t need to struggle with their instruments.

In turn, that allows them to focus on perfecting their technique. The smooth sound quality is another great advantage offered by this inexpensive mouthpiece. All in all, you will find this model a good value for the money spent.

 

Pros

This model is made from copper and comes with gold plating, so you will notice several advantages.

Due to its construction, it is rustproof, and it will resist bacteria and germs, provided that you don’t forget about giving it a regular cleaning.

Sound quality benefits from the gold plating, and it’s loud and smooth, something that will help beginners practice to achieve better skills and techniques.

You will notice its beautiful appearance that makes it a good option if you want to offer a musician the perfect gift.

 

Cons

You must bear in mind that this model won’t work well with a large-bore trombone, and the sound you will get when blowing through it will be influenced by its narrow design.

It is made in China and doesn’t appear to be very durable; however, for the price and its intended purpose, you may not be bothered by such aspects.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($12.75)

 

 

 

11. Yamaha Trombone Mouthpiece YACTR14B4 

 

The first thing you will notice about this mouthpiece is how easily you’ll get adjusted to it. It is a well-known fact that switching to a model with a larger rim can present some issues to most players, which is why it’s important to mention this fact.

It is made in Japan, and it shows in the overall quality of craftsmanship, which is simply flawless. Another thing that makes it stand out from the crowd is the excellent balance that makes it a good fit for a musical instrument. Unlike other mouthpieces that come silver-plated, this one is capable of producing slightly brighter sounds.

That helps a great deal since this mouthpiece is an excellent option for playing all music genres. Its versatility highly recommends it, as a result. Also, since it’s smaller than other similar mouthpieces from competitive brands, it is easily more comfortable to use.

 

Pros

This model comes with a large rim and a narrow cup, so you will find it comfortable to use and easy to adjust to as you continue to practice.

It is on par with other models produced by renowned brands, and its main advantage is its ability to produce brighter sounds compared to other silver-plated mouthpieces.

Because of its silver-plated construction, you can rest assured that it is the safest against bacteria and germs, as long as you clean it regularly.

You will notice right away that it’s versatile and allows you to play various music genres without a problem.

 

Cons

While it offers the opportunity to play deep notes better than most mouthpieces, it doesn’t equal the performance of other similarly priced models from other brands.

It can be considered expensive, so it may not be a good option for anyone who wants a spare or an option for a beginner.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($33.95)

 

 

 

12. Vincent Bach 3416HAL Trombone Mouthpiece 

 

Like all the other products made by Vincent Bach, this one will impress you from the start with its craftsmanship and attention to detail. Its flawless looks are accompanied by excellent performance, but it should be mentioned that this model is a better fit for intermediates and professionals rather than beginners.

As far as its specs go, it comes with a medium-deep cup and a rounded rim. When you use this mouthpiece, you will notice right away how comfortable it feels. That alone allows you freedom in perfecting techniques that will make you a better trombone player.

While it does require that you have a well-developed embouchure, its advantages surpass the drawbacks. You will notice that the mouthpiece offers a quick response, and the sounds produced are softer and more melodic. The silver plating ensures that you don’t have to worry about brass allergies and also helps your instrument sound better.

 

Pros

With a cup diameter fairly large and deep, this mouthpiece ensures that you will achieve the sonority preferred by the American school.

It is a well-built mouthpiece that will last for a long time, so you will know that you’re making a sound investment should you decide to get one for your instrument.

You will be pleasantly impressed with the loud volume, as this model is one of the most powerful trombone mouthpieces you can find today.

Another thing that highly recommends it is the consistent timbre sustained through the range of notes for a flawless performance.

 

Cons

As is the case with other accessories made by this company, this one is expensive, and it may not be a good option for every budget.

It is not an item fit for beginners, and you should have already developed the necessary embouchure techniques to benefit from the advantages presented by this option.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($73.99)

 

 

 

Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

Finding the best trombone mouthpieces may not sound easy, but if you are armed with the proper knowledge, you will be able to identify the products that will flawlessly work for your instrument. To help you in this endeavor, we put together this buying guide that focuses on the aspects most crucial for making the correct choice.

What kind of trombone do you play?

Since there are so many mouthpieces on the market, wading through the offers provided by manufacturers may feel like a daunting task. However, you don’t have to look at every one of them. The first step to narrow down your search is to decide on a mouthpiece designed for the type of trombone you play.

As you well know, there are tenor, alto, and jazz trombones, and manufacturers make different mouthpieces for each type. That’s why your first criterion should refer to your favorite instrument. The best jazz trombone mouthpiece cannot be the same as one created for an alto instrument, and that’s why your choice should be based on that.

 

What kind of material is the mouthpiece made of?

It is not a matter of appearance or cost that dictates manufacturers to make trombone mouthpieces from various materials. Each material you see has immediate implications in how the musical instrument will sound like. For instance, the best trombone mouthpiece for high notes should be gold plated. The brilliant sound of stainless steel mouthpieces offers another option for musicians.

You will notice that silver-plated mouthpieces offer you the possibility to achieve heavy dark sounds with a richness to them that cannot be equaled by other similar accessories. The number one reason why manufacturers choose to plate the mouthpieces they make with silver or gold is because brass is known to cause allergies.

However, you can even find mouthpieces that are made from good quality plastic. Still, you must be aware that hygiene can become a problem with materials that are not easy to wipe clean.

Quality and budget choices

Whether you want the best bass trombone mouthpiece or anything else, you need to strike a balance between the overall quality of the product and your budget. As is often the case with musical instruments and accessories, the price tags can vary wildly, which means that you must choose with extra care.

The aspects mentioned above play an essential role. But you won’t find the best trombone mouthpiece for jazz at a low price. Nonetheless, if you only look for a mouthpiece you can use for practice, you will find several budget-priced options worthy of being taken into consideration. In case you’re looking for a mouthpiece for stage performances, expect a costlier investment.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: What size trombone mouthpiece should I get?

You may feel tempted to get a cheap trombone mouthpiece when choosing your first accessory of this type. However, while pricing does play a role, you should consider the size of the trombone piece and how it is capable of influencing your musical performance.

Professional musicians prefer options that go as large as possible because these configurations can provide them with a higher volume of air when they blow into the instrument, which results in a better overall performance when playing difficult pieces. In the case of large mouthpieces, the player’s lips won’t touch, producing a clearer sound.

However, students may do better with medium-size mouthpieces, as they are easier to handle. The larger mouthpieces tend to demand more from musicians in terms of technique and level of skill. For this reason, a model with a small diameter may be the most indicated option for a beginner.

Q: How do you disinfect a trombone mouthpiece?

When playing the trombone every day, your mouthpiece can become dirty and a place for bacteria to thrive. That’s why cleaning your trombone mouthpiece thoroughly at least once a month is highly recommended. The following steps will help you maintain a clean mouthpiece that never becomes a health hazard.

Soak a clean cloth in warm water mixed with soap and proceed to clean the exterior of the mouthpiece. For the inside of the mouthpiece, you will need a small brush that can reach inside. Use warm water in which you dissolved some soap previously so that you can effectively fight any bacteria that might have gathered there.

The next step involves rinsing the mouthpiece thoroughly, making sure to eliminate any traces of soap. After the mouthpiece is dry, apply some germicide and leave it to dry again on a paper towel. This way, you will always have a clean, safe to use trombone mouthpiece.

 

Q: How often should you clean your trombone?

Unlike other musical instruments, trombones appear challenging to clean because of their construction. However, they still need regular cleaning, as dirt and debris can accumulate inside with everyday use. According to experts, you should clean your trombone at least once a month if you play it every day.

Cleaning your trombone means giving it a bath. It may sound complicated, but the entire process takes about 15 minutes or a bit more. You will need a washbasin, mild soap, a brush for the mouthpiece, a snake-like brush so that you can stick it through anywhere, and plenty of paper towels.

For the cleaning to be a success, you will have to remove the accessories that can be removed, like the mouthpiece. It is ideal to have a flat surface nearby to place all the parts on it. Since brass doesn’t like water, some grease or oil specially made for caring for musical instruments should be part of your arsenal.