It’s true that price is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a cello. You need to compare prices of different models and sellers. However, it doesn’t end there. There are also other things to look at to make your shopping easier. For instance, matching the instrument to your playing needs.
If this is your first time buying a cello, this mini guide will walk you through how you can “smart shop” a cello.
1. Know What You Need Before You Start Shopping
Ditch the price for the time being, and let’s focus on your playing experience and what exactly your goals are (if there are). We mean, do you plan on pursuing cello as your career or just want to add a skill to your bucket? By knowing your goal, you’ll make an informed decision.
Aside from that, you also need to decide what qualities and features matter most. These are the playability and condition of the parts of the instrument itself. Then, don’t forget to set a realistic spending budget before you browse for a cello.
- Pay Attention to the Cello’s Sound
If you’re a practical shopper, you’ll definitely try the instrument itself before paying for it. By doing so, you’ll hear the sound quality. If you hear a clear, warm, and balanced sound, then that instrument is good to go. To do that, though, you need to test it across different positions and strings.
One mistake shoppers make? They tend to look at the appearance alone without trying the instrument and hearing its sound.
- Make Sure the Cello Feels Comfortable
Apart from the sound, you also need to pick a cello that’s comfortable to play. You’ll achieve comfort by making sure that the size of the cello fits you (pick the right size). Also, the neck, fingerboard, and endpin must all be comfortable to reach when you play different notes and positions.
4. Don’t Forget About the Bow
Bow. (No not the bow at the end). It’s the most important accessory. You need to make sure that your bow is in good condition and is responsive. Since the cello and the bow are partners, they should work well together.
5. Ask About Setup and Maintenance
When shopping, don’t be shy or get intimidated by asking about the setup and maintenance. Ask when the cello was last serviced or set up. Ask about the strings, bridge, soundpost, and other adjustments.
Also, you need to factor in future maintenance because you don’t want a hassle with after-sales service.
6. Test Before You Commit
Always, always, always test the instrument before you commit. You know, play the same passages on different cellos and notice the difference. Or better yet, bring a teacher or an experienced cellist to help you pick the right one for you. It’s important to take your time testing the instrument rather than buying based on looks or first impression.
7. Compare More Than One Seller
Don’t settle on one seller. When you search “cellos for sale near me”, there’ll be multiple shops. You need to keep at least three (3) sellers or shops that you can compare in terms of instruments, service, warranties, and accessories. More than the price, consider the value.
Conclusion
By these “smart tips” we mean being meticulous throughout the process. Don’t just rely on looks; rely on the sound quality and the overall value. Aside from the quality of the instrument, you also want to shop from a reputable shop to enjoy a hassle-free service.