You always need the best cello rosin when playing the string instrument because it helps increase friction between the strings and the hairs of your bow. This extra friction is what enables you to play the smoothest, consistent, and resonant sounds.
There are many rosin options in the market today, which only make it harder to pick the best. There also are different types of rosin you can pick from depending on your skill level. These are light rosin, dark rosin, powdered rosin, metallic rosin, and non-metallic rosin.
All these cello rosins produce different amounts of grip depending on the types of cellos you play. Therefore, it is best to consider your skill level, type of instrument, budget, and a few more factors before you buy. This article shares a list of the best cello rosin to buy in 2021.
Contents
1. Jade L'Opera JADE Rosin for Cello, Violi9n, and Viola
[amazon box="B002Q0WT6U" template="horizontal"]
One essential factor to consider when buying the best cello rosin is its packaging. Depending on the type of rosin you get, you need to ensure its storage enhances the rosin's integrity and consistency. This particular rosin is packaged in a sturdy case and then wrapped in a velvet cloth wrap, and therefore it stays in good condition through different weathers.
Jade L'Opera rosin is ideal for most string instruments, including the cello, violin, and viola. It is a smooth consistency that guarantees a better grip when you play. It is even better if you have trouble with powdered rosin.
You won't need to worry about the texture of this rosin. According to the manufacturer, it will not affect any fine scratches on your instrument or its accessories. The rosin is easy to carry and available in different sizes.
Pros
Cons
2. D'Addario Kaplan Premium Dark Rosin with Case
[amazon box="B0038XUDW6" template="horizontal"]
D'Addario is one of America's leading companies that manufacture good rosin for cello and other instruments. Their best rosin is available in two options; you can buy either light or dark rosin. For this product, their packaging guarantees it is a great product.
This rosin is stored in a compact, sleek, and modern jewel case that can fit into your instrument bags with ease. The packaging is also designed for single-handed use and is easy to open. Once you start using the rosin, you can rotate it to ensure even wear and distribution.
This rosin cake is made with natural ingredients and contains very low dust. It is an ideal choice for professional cellists or beginners. Made in the USA, the rosin is ideal for bows with synthetic hairs or horsehairs.
Pros
Cons
3. Sound Harbor 2 Pack Rosin for Violin, Viola, and Cello
[amazon box="B01D2QPWCE" template="horizontal"]
Sound Harbor is another rosin brand trusted by many string players. As a cellist, one of the things you have to worry about is transporting your cello, cello bow, and your rosins wherever you need to play or practice. In any instance, you want the items to be as lightweight as possible.
This company packages their cello rosin in smaller packs instead of one large rosin pack. The packaging is not only good when you have to carry your instruments, but it's also ideal because you can always have a backup pack in your cello case.
The rosin is ideal for most string instruments as it enhances clear bow articulation and better sound projection. It is made with natural ingredients to make a soft formula that won't leave any residue on your bow or strings.
Ideal for synthetic hairs and horsehair bows, the rosin does not change consistency even in hot weather. It is easy to apply the low dust, high-viscosity, and excellent grip rosin. It is available in a box or rectangular shape to prevent it from breaking apart.
Pros
Cons
4. Bernardel Rosin for Cello, Viola, and violin
[amazon box="B000F3HK78" template="horizontal"]
This original Bernardel cello rosin is best suited for advanced students and professional cellists. Most elite cellists prefer light to medium cello rosin, precisely how this rosin is made.
Made in France, the cake rosin comes in a handy pouch for safe storage and easy transportation in your cello case. It is ideal for cello, viola, and violin. It is lightly-colored, sticky rosin that perfectly unites your bow and strings to produce the best sound quality.
The only challenge you might find with this rosin is dust. If you apply many layers, they could result in a lot of dust that can affect your playing.
Pros
Cons
5. Pirastro Goldflex Rosin For Cello
[amazon box="B000BNG668" template="horizontal"]
Pirastro is among the best brands that make rosin for cello and other instruments. One of their best rosins is the Goldflex that is enhanced with tiny gold flecks for better bow and string friction and, thus, better grip.
For the best warm and bright tones, you can get this rosin from Pirastro that is ideal for any string type. The rosin cake is carefully wrapped in a protective satin-like cloth in a box for better storage and transportation.
The rosin is ideal for all types of players, from beginners to elite cellists. It also stands out from the rest because it looks fantastic while being effective rosin.
Pros
Cons
Factors to Consider Before Buying the Best Cello Rosin
Unlike other accessories you buy for your instruments, rosin is relatively standard in its manufacturing process. Regardless of the brand or price range, it is made with resin extracted from pine trees. The only difference between rosin brands is their processing and final packaging.
However, even with pine trees and rosin-making companies' worldwide availability, choosing a single product in the market is no easy task. When looking for cello rosin, you may need to consider these vital factors.
1. The rosin form
Rosins are sold in either box or cake form. These two forms make a difference in the way rosins improve the friction between the bow and the cello strings.
Boxed or rectangular rosin is more sticky and lasts longer on the strings. It is the best type of rosin for students who are yet to learn how to manipulate the bow and the strings best.
On the other hand, cake rosin is preferred by more advanced cellists who know the exact purity and quality of rosin they require to produce better sound. In most cases, cake rosin has better quality than the boxed rosin.
2. The color of the rosin
Rosin comes in two colors and main types; light rosin and dark rosin. When buying the best rosin for your cello, you would need to consider the instrument's tone. Generally, the cello is more low-toned compared to the violin and other string instruments.
The need for rosin is to improve the sound quality when you play. As such, it is best to opt for medium to dark-colored rosin as it will offer you more grip for better sound. If you are a beginner cellist, you can use the light rosin as it offers less grip. Less grip will help you learn the ins and outs of playing the instruments before you can tell where you need to improve.
3. The texture of the rosin
Cello rosin is available in different textures, from soft to hard. When buying cello rosin, it is ideal to choose the soft to medium textures as they are stickier, improving your sound quality while offering you a better grip.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best cello Rosins
a) What is rosin?
Rosin is hardened tree sap. It is made from resin extracted from a pine tree, then mixed with other ingredients before cooked and moulded for packaging.
b) Why is the best cello rosin essential?
A cello bow does not have enough friction to vibrate and produce a better sound, which you need when playing. For this reason, you need to use rosin as it is a sticky substance capable of offering this needed friction. It causes bow hair to stick to a string as you play, thus activating a better sound when you pull the bow.
c) How is rosin applied?
When applying any rosin, you need to find a good balance to avoid applying more or less than needed. Before applying, tighten your bow and then apply the rosin from the tip to the frog. For best results, press the rosin against the bow for 3 to 5 strokes. If your bow is new, you might need a few more strokes.
d) How often should rosin be applied?
You should apply rosin to your cello bow when you notice the hairs not sticking to the strings. If you are a regular cellist, you may find the need to apply rising several times a week.
e) When can rosin affect the cello sound quality?
If you notice the sound quality worsening when you play the cello, it could be the rosin causing it. Confirm whether you need to apply more layers of rosin. In another instance, you might have applied a high amount of rosin on the bow, which could alter the sound quality.
If you have applied more than enough rosin, you will find your bow looking dusty, and the dust could get to your skin and eyes for worse outcomes. In this case, you need to use a microfiber cloth to wipe off the extra rosin. If you notice too much buildup, it is best to take your instrument to a professional cleaner.
f) How different is light rosin from dark rosin?
Light rosin, apart from color, differs from dark rosin in the grip it offers when playing. Light rosin offers light grip, while dark rosin offers.
Light rosin has a light formulation that is ideal for high temperatures and solo playing. It usually works best for violins and violas. Dark rosin has a harder formula that works best in low temperatures and is ideal for cellists playing in orchestras or playing full tones.
g) How to know which rosin is best for your specific strings
In some cases, you can find rosin that is specially designed for the strings of your cello. Companies like Pirastro, Hidersine, and Larica, among others, sell specially formulated rosin to work in conjunction with each set of strings they sell.
If you know the string types you have on your cello, looking for the company's rosin could be the easiest way to buy the best rosin for your cello.
