What size cello should I buy?

mr_angry

I'm thinking of taking-up the cello, and in true scavenger style, I'd like to get something reasonably priced from eBay, get some books / DVDs, and teach myself. However, the problem I'm having is deciding on what size of cello to buy. They seem to range from 1-4/4, and I don't really understand the sizing scheme. I'm relatively short (5'8" tall), so I was assuming that a 4/4 might be a little big for me, but the truth is that I don't know.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,
--
Angry.

Dord

mr_angry wrote: »

I'm thinking of taking-up the cello, and in true scavenger style, I'd like to get something reasonably priced from eBay, get some books / DVDs, and teach myself. However, the problem I'm having is deciding on what size of cello to buy. They seem to range from 1-4/4, and I don't really understand the sizing scheme. I'm relatively short (5'8" tall), so I was assuming that a 4/4 might be a little big for me, but the truth is that I don't know.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,
--
Angry.

Apparently 7/8 size or 4/4 (full size) are the most popular for adults. I'd be wary buying a cello from eBay, you may end up with a cheap chinese one that will cost you more in repairs than it's worth. My advise would be to go to a store and check some out. If you're in Dublin then check out Crehans off Griffith Avenue (http://www.crehans.ie).

Eoin Madsen

I got a double bass from Thomann a couple of years ago - they also do cellos and violins. Their range are made by a company in the Czech Republic whose name eludes me at this exact moment. My bass sounds respectable for what I paid, and it hasn't exploded or warped yet.

My research at the time disuaded me from buying via Ebay.