Characteristics to Consider

Upgraded Wood: Many student cellos are made with laminate, not fully-carved wood. A fully carved instrument will make a drastic improvement in sound. Wood is the most important aspect of the instrument. It must be cut, stored, and aged properly to make the best sounding instruments. Violin makers prefer wood that comes from the higher altitudes and cooler climates. That makes harder, stronger wood. Spruce is used on the front or top of the instrument, maple or poplar is used on the sides and back of the instrument. Ideally wood is aged for at least 7 years. Some wood is aged 50 plus years before it becomes a cello!

Customized Features: Once the instrument is handcrafted and glued together, then fittings are chosen. Fingerboards are made of Ebony wood. This is the most stable wood and most resistant to climate changes. Pegs and tailpieces are often made with ebony, boxwood or rosewood. Boxwood and rosewood make for different aesthetic looks. All function well. Tailpieces can vary beyond different woods, composite materials can be used as well to make the instrument lighter, allowing for more sound production. Fine tuners can be built into the tailpiece or added to a wood tailpiece. There are endpin options as well. There are traditional metal endpin rods or carbon fiber endpin rods that lighten up the cello tremendously. The difference in weight can change the sound of the instrument.

Strings: Step-up cellos are strung with better quality strings. Most cellists prefer stranded steel core strings to give a better bow response and a clear tone. There are synthetic strings available as well. There are many brands available on the market.

Varnish: There are 2 main types of varnishes, spirit, and oil. Spirit varnishes are made using resins (tree sap) and alcohol or turpentine. Spirit varnishes dry quickly but are more difficult to apply. Oil varnishes are made with linseed or walnut oil and other ingredients and are much easier to apply, however, take much longer to dry. These varnishes are more delicate than the varnish on student instruments. Spirit and oil varnishes allow the sound to come out of the instrument and project more easily, showing off the instrument’s tonal richness.

It is important to consider these features when choosing an upgraded cello, but the best way to decide is to come in and try out these upgraded models for yourself! At Menchey Orchestral String Gallery, we have a great selection of upgraded cellos from Eastman, Shen, and more. One is sure to be the perfect match for you!