Bows
We welcome you to browse our featured used bows below, and also to visit the websites of our favorite suppliers of both pernambuco and graphite/carbon fiber bows. To visit the websites of our suppliers, please use the links provided from our home page. We realize there are more choices than ever before when it comes to selecting the perfect bow for you! Which choice is correct, or best? A new traditionally made pernambuco wood bow, or a beautiful older Pernambuco bow? A modern synthetic bow, often referred to as graphite or carbon fiber? We believe the best bow for you is the bow which feels best in your hand, sounds best on your instrument, is in good condition, suits your purpose, and is affordable to you. Here are some tips to help you select your next bow: -Try both Pernambuco and Graphite/Carbon Fiber bows. Wear a blindfold if you wish! This removes any preconceived notions about what may best suit you. -Play music or scales which you are very familiar and comfortable with. This allows all of your attention to be directed to the sound and feel of the bow you are evaluating, instead of the mechanics of playing. -Play the first bow, then the second. Make your choice before moving on to the third bow. This prevents confusion over too many choices. -Play using different bow styles and techniques such as full legato bows, marcato, and spiccato. This helps narrow choices and determine which bow handles best and sounds the cleanest on your instrument. -Play slurred bowings, especially in combination with string changes. This helps evaluate the control of the bow. -Play forte, pianissimo, and in-between! This test may narrow the choices even further for you by highlighting bows which sound clean in any dynamic, without losing focus or becoming distorted. -Make certain that the bow of your choice is in good condition! Reputable dealers won't sell bows that are warped, have poor camber, or have unresolved tip plate or frog issues. Nice, older (vintage) bows which have been repaired or have non original fittings should be priced to reflect this, and these items should be revealed to you. Often, these make great playing bows at affordable prices! By the way, a bow is only as good as its hair! Has your current bow been properly maintained? Try us out (as a first time customer) with our "Website Rehair Special" and receive 10% off when we rehair your bow. Don't want to drive to us? Save gas and ship your bow to us for rehair or repair. We recommend our reusable insulated PVC bow tube for shipping (just $10.00 when you ask for the Website PVC Bow Tube Special). That's 1/3 off the regular price! And now, on with our featured bows! |
