About the instrument: I have bought Chinese-made student instruments before, so I was expecting an object which would reasonably pass for a 'cello. Imagine my surprise when I instead received a very competent, functional instrument! It's fun to play, and loud with good response. Tone is completely acceptable, if undistinctive; however, it costs a lot more to get a superior instrument. A great value for a quality beginning 'cello! About the bow: Mass-produced Chinese bows are not terribly pretty to look at, but they are functional and get the job done. This bow is much the usual: the tip is a bit primitive and the weight is a bit heavy. That said, it's straight, it works, and it feels good in the hand. As is typical with kits, the first equipment upgrade to consider is the bow, not the instrument. About the accessories: -I like the soft carry bag, it has lots of pockets and feels substantial enough that I'll be comfortable taking my 'cello out into the world. -The stand is really wonderful; I like having the 'cello on display in my studio for students to see and play. -I'm a rosin snob -- Swedish bass rosin for me, thank you -- but the included rosin does the job it should. Use a little light-grit sandpaper to rough up the surface and it'll apply just fine. -I tune by ear and I live the tuning fork lifestyle. Those who don't will probably find the electronic tuner useful, especially when first getting used to the instrument. -Spare strings! Always useful! The strings are competent and perfectly adequate for starting out and early progress. Upgrading strings in time, however, is a good move. -The included lesson book is a nice addition. It uses settings of real music, including classical and folk tunes. It's a great way to be introduced to the clef and the 'cello. However, the book does assume that the player already has some musical experience, including note reading and playing string instruments. For me (as an upper string player and instructor) this is perfect; raw beginners should look for a more basic introduction.Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
If youre looking for agoid business, who'll take care of you, Mendini musical instruments is your place. Their customer service has been great. i dont know enough about the Cello to give a great review, but I enjoy that i didnt need to pay over $200 to say yes i own a cello and im gonna learn to play it.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
For the price, it is a lovely cello for a beginner. The d string and the spare both broke while tuning. I replaced it with a different brand. The bow seems a bit long and awkward for my arms, but I five foot and three inches tall. The rosin was not good at all. I bought another brand for that as well. I bought the natural colored cello. It came a big more orange than natural, but that's fine. The bridge was easy to install on my own and was packaged away from the actual cello. All pieces were packaged in their own little wrappings inside of the bigger box. It was all very well protected. As a beginner, I appreciate the tuner/metronome and book of solos that it comes with. The projection of the instrument is much better than I'd expected for the price. It seems sturdy and we'll crafted. It is meant for beginners, so if you are looking for a cello to play in your quarter or what have you, this isn't it. If you're looking for a cheaper option to learn on, this is an amazing find.Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
I play the violin. I have always wanted to play Cello. I didn't want to spend alot of money to start out. As a beginner this instrument sounds good enough, holds a tuning well, allows me to learn the basics and provides a great deal of enjoyment for a very small price. I highly recommend it for any beginner.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
Nice instrument sounds great. Did not have a manual as described and arrived with a tuning knob broken, which they did replace. with a full set. Description should mention that you have to install the bridge (its easy) but for a beginner it could be an issue.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
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