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Ji
New member
Username: Blueskies89

Post Number: 3
Registered: 02-2007

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Posted on Thursday, May 22, 2008 - 08:09 am:   

I was wondering the tonal differences of these two. Can people describe how they sound so I can compare? What kind of music are they suited for?
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Daniel Burton
Senior Member
Username: Daniel

Post Number: 505
Registered: 11-2005

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Posted on Thursday, May 22, 2008 - 09:35 am:   

Hi, Ji. Welcome to the group. Not sure which instrument you're asking about. Generalizations may or may not hold across instrument types. As for cello, at one time we were saying that the MT's tone was best suited for 18th century music while the KB was capable of richer sound to satisfy 19th century tonal demands.

Since SW has changed the MT setup so that it has a fuller sound, there's probably less difference than there once was. However, the two KB cellos I've seen were considerably more boisterous and perhaps less manageable than the MT. This is not a negative comment, but more experience is probably needed to handle the KB.
Dan
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Ji
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Username: Blueskies89

Post Number: 4
Registered: 02-2007

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Posted on Thursday, May 22, 2008 - 10:47 am:   

I am talking about the violin
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Cellopop
Senior Member
Username: Curtis

Post Number: 2699
Registered: 11-2005

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Posted on Thursday, May 22, 2008 - 12:17 pm:   

Ji,

The MTII instrument line is known (according to Stringworks) to produce a softer, sweeter tone, maybe a little quieter than the KB, which is considered more suitable for the Baroque era and would blend nicer in a chamber or orchestra setting.
The KB on the other hand is said to have a more focust and brighter tone with volume, considered more suitable for solo pieces and a more dynamic tone for 19th century and later.
The KB violin always seemed to be the popular choice around here. According to Stringworks, that by now means says the quality is better or worse with either model. I think the price difference reflects the country of origin and is a matter of economics.
Both are quality instruments and depending on your tastes, either should satisfy.
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TK
Senior Member
Username: Lifeisgood

Post Number: 337
Registered: 07-2006

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Posted on Tuesday, May 27, 2008 - 06:28 am:   

I have a KB violin and I would describe it exactly as Cellopop has: focused and bright tone with volume.

I've not heard a MTII to compare.
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Michelle Anne Cello
Senior Member
Username: Icstars

Post Number: 804
Registered: 11-2005


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Posted on Thursday, May 29, 2008 - 02:02 pm:   

My KB cello had a very strong projection... read loud! It did demand precision to play it. It was a powerful instrument to be sure. I stepped up to an MC and miss many of those qualities in my small group where our director is always demanding more from my modest section.

I love my MC and could not think of parting with it. But there are times when I could really use a KB. Perhaps one of these days I'll be able to get another.

Michelle
I used to think I was indecisive, but now I'm not sure.
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Cellopop
Senior Member
Username: Curtis

Post Number: 2715
Registered: 11-2005

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Posted on Friday, May 30, 2008 - 04:44 am:   

By the descriiptions of tone, Michelle, I though you would go for the Gyorke. More the upper end KB. Consider a trade in (last one) if you miss that oomph you so desire.
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Michelle Anne Cello
Senior Member
Username: Icstars

Post Number: 811
Registered: 11-2005


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Posted on Thursday, June 12, 2008 - 07:19 pm:   

Curtis,

If I had the money, I'd certainly get the Gyorke! I might have a windfall this year and I might consider it. But I do love the sweetness of the MC. It is a beautiful instrument in every way. It is not as strong but it is definitely a keeper.

Michelle
I used to think I was indecisive, but now I'm not sure.
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Cellopop
Senior Member
Username: Curtis

Post Number: 2734
Registered: 11-2005

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Posted on Friday, June 13, 2008 - 04:57 am:   

Michelle,

Yea, I guess. I forgot, you'd lose 20% this time and these instruments prices are quite a bit higher. A belgian bridge and some high tension tungstens may help you out.

If you have trouble finding the bridge, let me know. I will help you search or can pick one up in Manhattan and send it to you. (after you give me the dimensions of course.)
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Michelle Anne Cello
Senior Member
Username: Icstars

Post Number: 813
Registered: 11-2005


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Posted on Friday, June 13, 2008 - 03:29 pm:   

Curtis,

I do have a SW soloist cello that I purchased at full price. I would hope that they would give me full credit of that instrument for the Gyorke. If not, I'll tell them that the soloist belongs to my husband and he'll get the upgrade.... right?

I'm very serious about an upgrade. But I'll have to wait and see. I tried to play today and this messed up finger is like trying to pull notes with a marshmellow. Not only does it hurt profoundly, I can't feel the string and I can't put any pressure where it is needed. I came away from a 5 minute practice session with some sluffed skin and a red swollen finger. But, my doc says that this is all to be expected and that I should continue to practice as much as I can. About the pain (the nerves get all messed up in a situation like this) she told me: "You're a big girl now, deal with it!" Like she needed to tell me that. I have to get back to the woodshedding. If I could not play, I would die. I know it.

Michelle
I used to think I was indecisive, but now I'm not sure.

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