NEW PRODUCTS

CHIN AND SHOULDER REST

All in one

A chin and shoulder rest system receives a lightweight makeover

Dolfinos’ new Signature edition of its chin and shoulder rest system is the most affordable of the range so far. ‘It was always the plan to bring prices down,’ says head of research Michael Wiener.

‘We didn’t want to simplify the technology, so the production process was simplified.’ The result is a proprietary injectionmoulded carbon composite. It contains double the amount of carbon fibres of the Carbon edition and is 25 per cent lighter than – and ‘almost as rigid’ as – the top-end Limited Air edition at ‘nearly half the price’, Wiener says. It is available for small violin, violin and viola.

The system comprises three parts to be assembled by the player: a chin rest, adapter and shoulder rest. The adaptable chin rest comes in the Toledo shape, made of injectionmoulded, skin-friendly, anti-static ABS (a thermoplastic polymer). Four other models, made of wood, are also available:

Venezia, Lisbon, Vienna and Berlin. The latter two also come in ‘high’ and ‘low’ versions. Wiener explains that the range of options was based on the company’s research on the benefits of ergonomic design in preventing injuries.

The adapter, made of high-strength aircraft-grade aluminium, into which the chin and shoulder rests are screwed, is clamped on to the violin in line with the end-button. Cork pads are in contact with the wood. The carbon shoulder rest comprises a plate holding two cushions made of medical-grade thermoplastic elastomer.

These can be moved sideways, angled up to 20 degrees and rotated. The violin and viola shoulder rests are 172mm and 185mm respectively, to accommodate the ‘different leverage forces’ between the two instruments.

Wiener argues that the Signature edition’s premium price is warranted because it is a ‘solid Swiss design, built to last; it can be serviced and worn parts replaced. It is designed to grow with you.’ Parts, such as the chin rest, can be customised on request and students receive a 15 per cent discount.

Dolfinos Signature edition rest system from €499 email mail@dolfinos.com web www.dolfinos.com

FEATURED PRODUCT

VIOLIN CASE

THE LITTLE THINGS

BAM has extended its Youngster line with a case for 1/8 and 1/4-size violins. The foam interior holds two bows and includes an accessories compartment. The waterproof fabric exterior features accessory and sheet music pockets, and two adjustable, removable padded straps. It is available in six colours.

BAM Youngster 1/8 and 1/4 case €186 email bam.cases@bamcases.com web www.bamcases.com

ROSIN

NO REACTION

D’Addario’s new Clarity Hypoallergenic Rosin is made from a synthetic compound that the company claims is unlikely to provoke allergic reactions, while still performing similarly to pine rosins. It can be used for violin, viola and cello, and comes in a polypropylene tray.

D’Addario Clarity Hypoallergenic Rosin $14.99 email see bit.ly/3sM5SA2web www.daddario.com