Umair Gaines
The electric cello is a modern variant of the traditional cello that employs electronic amplification to produce sound. Electric cellos are often chosen by cellists for their lower cost, durability, and portability. They are also favoured for their ability to produce a wide variety of sounds and effects, such as distortion, wah, and chorus. However, some cellists dislike the sound of electric cellos, describing it as thin, nasal, and inferior to the acoustic cello. The electric cello is typically used in modern genres such as rock, jazz, and pop, rather than classical music.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Production of sound | Electronic amplification |
| Acoustic cello modification | Fitted with a bridge or body-mounted contact pickup providing an electric signal, or a built-in pickup |
| Pickups | Magnetic coil guitar type needing steel strings, string as a linear pickup element, piezo |
| Body | Modeled after acoustic cellos, totally new body shape, little or no body |
| Support | Traditional endpin and knee supports, elongated pin for standing position, tripod stand, strap, strap system |
| Cost | $400 - $5000 |
| Strings | 5 or 6 |
| Sound | Thin, nasal, buzzing, raspy whisper, dull, restrained |
| Use | Modern music, rock, jazz, pop, classical |
| Advantages | Cheaper, more durable, easier to transport, sound effects |
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What You'll Learn
Electric cello sound quality
The electric cello is a modern variant of the traditional cello, relying on electronic amplification to produce sound. Unlike acoustic cellos, electric cellos do not have a resonant chamber, and their sound is often described as thin and nasal. The absence of a resonant body can make the cellist feel exposed, and the sound produced is often a faint buzzing noise.
The sound of an electric cello is heavily dependent on the quality of the instrument, the setup, and the playing style. The pressure exerted by the cellist on the strings also impacts the sound, with increased pressure resulting in a duller and more restrained sound. The piezo pickup system, commonly used in electric cellos, can struggle to translate the nuances produced by the bow.
To enhance the sound of an electric cello, effects such as distortion, wah, chorus, and reverb can be added. The number of piezo elements in the pickup system can range from one to eight, influencing the sound variety. Additionally, the use of a good preamp can improve the sound quality. The Yamaha Silent Cello, while expensive, has been described as sounding acceptable when EQ'd properly.
The electric cello is well-suited for modern music genres such as rock, jazz, and pop, where amplification is required to match the volume of other instruments. The ability to use effects pedals and sound processors allows for greater sound customization. However, it is important to note that the electric cello is not commonly used in classical orchestra settings, as it has a distinct sound and playing style compared to acoustic cellos.
Despite some challenges with sound quality, the electric cello offers advantages such as durability, ease of transport, and a lower price point compared to high-end acoustic cellos. It is a popular choice for cellists playing in clubs, basements, or outdoor venues, where an expensive acoustic instrument might be at risk of damage or theft.
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Electric cello vs acoustic cello
The cello has been around for hundreds of years, but the electric cello is a recent development. The two instruments have many differences, and choosing between them depends on the musician's needs.
The most obvious difference between the two is the sound. Acoustic cellos have a hollow body with a resonance chamber, which allows the bow's friction with the strings to reverberate acoustically. This hollow body is the source of the distinctive sound of acoustic instruments. On the other hand, electric cellos usually have a solid body without a resonance box and, therefore, produce sound in a completely different way. They use a bridge with sound transducers, which convert physical vibrations into an electrical signal, which is then sent to an amplifier. This results in a punchy, strong signal. However, some electric cellos, such as the Yamaha 110 and 210, have a small, hollow chamber built-in to produce a more "acoustic-like" warmth.
Another difference is the price. High-quality acoustic cellos can cost anywhere from $2,000 to hundreds of thousands of dollars, while most electric cellos are priced between $1,500 and $4,000.
The two types of cellos also differ in terms of mobility. Acoustic cellos are sturdier and more delicate than electric cellos, which are often lighter and easier to move around. Electric cellos are also less sensitive to climatic conditions and better suited for difficult weather conditions. They are less likely to be affected by temperature changes, cracks, or seams.
Finally, the two types of cellos are used differently. Electric cellos are rarely seen in classical orchestras, while acoustic cellos are more versatile in this regard. Electric cellos are often used by soloists at the front of the stage or in other settings such as clubs, basements, or outdoors.
Some other considerations when choosing between the two include the feel of the instrument, the player's technique, and the resistance from traditional orchestras to electric cellos. Ultimately, the choice between an electric and an acoustic cello depends on the individual's needs, preferences, and intended use.
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Electric cello use cases
The electric cello is a recent development in the centuries-old history of the cello, brought about by the evolution of music into genres like rock, pop, and hip-hop. Electric cellos rely on electronic amplification to produce sound, and they come in various designs, from those modelled after acoustic cellos to those with completely new body shapes.
One of the main use cases for electric cellos is in contemporary band settings or with the use of effects. They are well-suited for playing avant-garde, rock, jazz, and solo music. Electric cellos are also ideal for practice, especially when one might hesitate to bring an expensive acoustic instrument, such as when playing in clubs, basements, or outdoors. They can be built to be thinner or collapsible, making them more portable and convenient for transportation. Additionally, electric cellos are generally more affordable than acoustic cellos, making them an attractive option for those on a budget.
Another advantage of electric cellos is their durability. Being made of solid blocks of wood, they are less delicate, less prone to damage, and less susceptible to seasonal tuning issues and cracks. They are also more resistant to temperature changes.
Electric cellos can be customized with effects pedals and amplifiers to create unique sounds. They can also be designed with built-in percussion triggers, extended range strings, and custom capos to suit individual preferences and playing styles.
For those who play in both orchestral and non-orchestral settings, owning both an electric and an acoustic cello can provide versatility and convenience, allowing the musician to choose the appropriate instrument for the context.
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Electric cello cost
Electric cellos are generally lower priced than acoustic models. While a good-quality acoustic cello can cost anywhere from $2,000 to hundreds of thousands of dollars, most electric cellos are priced between $1,500 and $4,000. Even when factoring in the cost of an amplifier and other accessories, electric cellos tend to be more affordable.
However, it's important to note that the cost of an electric cello can vary depending on the brand, quality, and features offered. Some well-known brands in the electric cello space include Yamaha, NS Design, Aurora, Bridge, Gewa, ZETA, and 3Dvarius. While you can find cheaper options for less than $500, the sound quality and playability may not be up to par. According to some cello players, the only worthwhile instruments at a reasonable price are offered by NS Design and Yamaha, which can cost upwards of $3,000.
The electric cello's cost-effectiveness is further enhanced by its durability and portability. Electric cellos are less delicate than their acoustic counterparts and are less susceptible to damage from shocks or impacts. They are also less affected by temperature changes and seasonal tuning issues. Additionally, electric cellos can be designed with thinner bodies or collapsible features, making them more convenient for transportation.
When considering the cost of an electric cello, it's worth mentioning that they are particularly suited to certain musical contexts. Electric cellos excel in environments where amplified instruments are used, such as rock bands or avant-garde, jazz, and solo performances. They offer a strong signal, eliminate feedback issues, and provide sustain. However, electric cellos may not blend seamlessly with traditional orchestras due to their distinct timbre and dynamic range limitations.
Overall, the electric cello offers a cost-effective alternative to acoustic cellos, providing durability, portability, and performance advantages at a lower price point. However, it is important to consider the intended musical context and potential additional expenses, such as amplifiers and effects pedals, when making a purchase decision.
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Electric cello design
Electric cellos are available in a variety of designs, from those that resemble traditional cellos to those with colourful, sleek modern shapes. The design of an electric cello is not limited by the same constraints as an acoustic cello, allowing for more creative freedom.
Some electric cellos, like the Jordan Virage Model, maintain standard cello geometry and proportions, allowing any cello transducer system to be used. This model also offers machine heads on both sides of the pegheads or on the left side only, allowing the neck to be held closer to the cellist's head. Headless versions and versions with traditional scrolls are also available by request.
The NS CR Electric Cello, on the other hand, has a small body that allows full access to the upper register. It is crafted from European maple with a flame maple face, resulting in a rich, multi-dimensional tone. The NS CR Cello also offers a variety of accessories, such as an optional Cello End Pin Stand for seated play, a fully adjustable steel tripod stand, and a Boomerang Strap System for playing in different positions.
Another unique design feature of electric cellos is the ability to customise their weight. For example, one commissioned electric cello was designed to be as light as possible, utilising Royal Paulownia slabs, one of the lightest woods in the world, reinforced with carbon fibre rope.
Electric cellos can also incorporate special features, such as built-in percussion triggers and extended-range strings, allowing for greater musical expression and creativity.
Ultimately, the design of an electric cello can vary greatly, offering musicians a wide range of options to suit their individual needs and preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
The electric cello has a very different sound to the acoustic cello. The electric cello is amplified electronically and often has no resonant chamber at all, which means it can sound thin and nasal. It also has a limited acoustic sound without an amplifier.
The acoustic cello has a hollow body and a resonance chamber that allows the bow’s friction with the strings to reverberate acoustically. This creates the distinctive sound of an acoustic instrument. The electric cello does not have this resonance chamber and so does not have the same depth of sound.
Electric cellos can be used with effects pedals to modify the sound. For example, reverb and delay can be added to create a more classical sound, while saturation effects like distortion can be added to sound like a rock band.
