From the beginning in about 1660 when the cello was first crafted by Andrea Amati, the Cello has been an indispensable member of the Violin family – filling the tenor voice of the music spectrum.
Centuries of craftsmanship, improvements and developments through the years, has resulted in the instrument we know today. In the modern-day, sometime in the ’30s, the electric cello has become popular as a complement to its acoustic twin.
Choosing an instrument is difficult and straying from the traditional classic form can be a difficult choice – but the more you know the easier the decision becomes. That’s why we’ve explored everything you need to know about choosing an electric cello below.
What is an electric cello?
Non-acoustic cellos are a fairly recent development with most advancements occurring toward the latter end of the 20th century. An electric cello presents several differences from the acoustic equivalent.
The sound is still created by the bowing action across the strings but instead of the acoustic resonance, the electric cello relies on electronic amplification to create its unique sound.
Acoustic vs electric cello
The debate between acoustic and electric instruments has existed for as long as both types of the instrument have been around the difference lies mainly in the type of music you wish to produce. Electric cellos have not been widely accepted into the Classical/Orchestral scene, but find their niche in modern music, jazz and dance bands.
Of course, there still remain certain differences which are important to a first-time buyer and can be summarised as:
- Price — An electric Cello is considerably cheaper than a good acoustic
- Sound quality
- Mobility — Electric cello are easier to move around and less likely to be damaged
Should a beginner use an electric cello?
Learning to play an instrument is always going to require time, energy and money. Beginners who wish to reach their best potential are advised to start learning the cello before the age of ten. However, the cello is a large instrument even when purchased as a ½ or ¾ size, so physical development can be a factor in a child’s ability to play.
This should not be a disadvantage though and certainty an acoustic cello would be advisable for a first-time learner. Once the first grades have been achieved and the pupil is big enough to handle a ¾ or full-size acoustic – then an electric instrument may well be the next step.
What to consider when choosing an electric cello?
Just like any instrument, there are several necessities essential for choosing an electric cello.
Design & Appearance
Instruments are not all about aesthetics, and when going for an electric cello the obvious reason is for the ease of sound production. The design, however, is important to provide a comfortable playing position for the musician. Electric cellos can vary dramatically from a fully outlined shape mimicking the acoustic, to having a very minimal solid body known as a ‘Stick’ cello.
Personal preference for style can influence the choice, but also whether the cello is actively being moved. Some players prefer the fully outlined shape because an audience can then relate to the fact that it is, in fact, a cello being played. The ‘solid body ‘stick’ models are really designed for musicians on the move!
The different models should be held and tested in order to ensure the body is comfortable to the holder.
Portability
Electric cellos are far easier to move about safely than acoustic cellos. Tuning is less impacted by external influences which ensures that time is not wasted and especially with the models that incorporate machine heads rather than pegs.
Sound production
One advantage of an electric cello is that the sound produced can be made suited to any situation or style of playing. Using quality amplification and even foot pedals (as used with electric guitars) the sound can be amazing and can hold its own with other brass and woodwind in a band environment. For practice it can be disconnected from the amp and headphones used, or even, using a console, in conjunction with other string instruments forming a trio or quartet.
Price
Electric cellos are a cheaper option compared to a good acoustic, but an investment of a few thousand pounds should still be expected. This price difference comes obviously from a modern manufactured instrument compared to the craftsmanship and antiquity of good acoustics.
How much does an electric cello cost?
The cost of an electric cello is dependent on the craftsmanship, brand, material composites and distributor.
The cheaper electrics are often considered for beginners because the sound quality and playability are not major issues. As the requirements and ability of the musician progress the need will be felt for a better instrument with better pick-ups and easier playing, resulting in superior tone and performance.
What is the best electric cello?
Electric cello reviews and testimonials from current cello players are certainly a step in the right direction to choosing the best electric cello. However, no one can tell you what the best electric cello is because it depends to some extent on the user. That why we believe it’s always a good idea to come instore to try an instrument out.
Our range of electric cellos offers high-quality diversity across a set of different models.
This model is the cheapest that we offer. It is an excellent step into the world of electric instruments, as it is an inexpensive good option for amateur cellists needing to be amplified.
It is a full-size cello that comes with a gig bag and bows and with a variety of finishes, mini-jack input and output plus volume controls, which allows even inexperienced users to have full control over sound production.
Yamaha SVC-110
The Yamaha SVC-110 Silent Cello is the most acoustic sounding electric cello yet produced by Yamaha. It is fantastic for classical musicians who need a more durable instrument with the added benefit of being able to practice silently through headphones. It is equally useful in a concert or performance scenario where extra volume is needed but without the feedback one often gets on an amplified acoustic cello.
The Yamaha SVC-110 silent cello has a hollow resonating chamber beneath the newly designed pick-up which gives it a fuller, warmer and astonishingly natural acoustic sound. It has a maple neck, ebony fingerboard and pegs and 4 fine tuners. The futuristic shaped body is reminiscent of the well-known acoustic cello.
This model is perhaps more suited for those with a few years of playing but advancing beginners with the correct teaching and ambition. Definitely should not be discouraged.
Yamaha SVC-210
The SVC210 features a hollow body with a newly designed pickup for astonishingly natural, acoustic-like cello tone. A narrow aperture underneath the top board enhances the instrument’s acoustic warmth with a definition that works well amplified. A new finish highlights the beauty of the wood, matching the instrument’s looks to its superlative sound.
The SVC-210 can be disassembled to fit in a compact carrying case which means it’s easy to transport. It has folding legs and a removal chest and arm supports. With a fast, fuss-free setup it can be performance-ready in no time.
This model is the most expensive we offer but its superior design, sound and portability make it a stunning addition to a musician’s life.
Where to buy an electric cello?
Caswell’s has served four generations of string players, teachers and performers so we know that choosing an instrument can be a difficult process. Because every player is different we provide the means to test instruments in store before you buy. We offer the take-it-away option to purchase at 0% over a period of months and also for schools we offer the AIPS scheme.
Not only do we offer a range of high-quality electric cellos but we have all the accessories you need to go with them. Keep instruments safe and sounding great with a selection of necessary additions. So whether you need a lightweight fold-up music stand, a cello stand, a fresh set of electric strings, amplifiers and leads or rosins, floor stops and cleaning products, Caswells has you covered.
For those that cannot call in at our shop, we offer qualified advice backed by guarantees. Our upfront and calculated delivery service enable you to get your products efficiently and securely at the proper price to most destinations across the UK, as well as internationally.
If you want to provide a young musician with a new electric cello or string instrument today then browse our electric cello range or contact us today to use our other services on +44 (0) 1280 707 140 or at sales@caswellsstrings.com
This article was checked by the director of Caswell’s Strings, Lance Tunley who is an experienced purveyor of stringed instruments and accessories with over 30 years of experience in the field.
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