Basically there are 3 general categories of string instruments, this is a rough classification and I’m making this up off the top of my head. Here is a breakdown of those categories:
Beginning Student Instrument – Under $1000.00 (US)
These are instruments massed produced at a low cost. They vary in quality and workmanship and come from all over the world. Currently the most aggressive manufacturers are coming out of China. I have found a few cellos that are of high enough quality to produce a good sound, respond well and most importantly, not hinder the progression of the student’s study. Click here for more information.
Intermediate Student Instrument – From $1000.00 to $20,000.00
The instruments are all hand made. They generally sound fuller and project more. They can be from shops that have multiple craftsman who work on different areas of the instrument. They can even be from a single, lesser-known maker. These also come from all over the world. These instruments are for students who are serious about their studies and may even want to pursue a career in music, or simply have a lot of money!
Professional Instruments – Over $20,000.00
These instrument are primarily made by a single better-known or well-known luthier (the fancy name for maker or repairman).
These dollar figures are somewhat arbitrary. I’ve played instruments priced in the thousands that are no better than instruments that are priced in the hundreds. I’ve played instruments priced in the tens of thousands that sound better then some instruments that are priced in the hundred of thousands.
Below are a some links to instruments I have found for my students. I am always on the lookout for good, inexpensive instruments to recommend. If you have any recommendations, let me know here.
The all around best value for your money I found is the Cecilio CCO-500
This is the same instrument I’ve seen listed on Ebay but at a equal or lower price. I’ve haven’t had any problems with this company from which I’ve bought my cellos. I also have no relationship with this company (I don’t make a commission from them). I only know this model cello and for my beginning students, it is more than adequate. Remember, this instrument will need to be set up properly before you can play it.
If you have any questions, or want me to look at a cello you found locally or online, let me know by contacting me here. Make sure you send a link to the page where you found the cello.
Below are a some links to instruments I have found for my students. I am always on the lookout for good, inexpensive instruments to recommend. If you have any recommendations, let me know here.
Best Cellos Under $1000.00
The all around best value for your money I found is the Cecilio CCO-500
Setup Option:
If you would like to purchase the Cecilio CCO-500 cello listed above set up and ready to play, click the “Shop Now” button below.
What you get:
- Fingerboard inspected and planed for maximum playability
- Nut inspected and shaved down for ease of fingering
- Bridge setup and position marked for easy customer positioning
- Pegs inspected and treated for ease of tuning
- Proper positioning of the tailpiece
- Soundpost setup for maximum tonal quality
- A new set of D’Addario Prelude Cello Strings pre-strung on the instrument
Cecilio CCO-500 – Setup & Ready to Play
Recommended Cellos Under $20,000.00
Contact me here.
Recommended Cellos Over $20,000.00
Contact me here.