awww was hoping to hear your opinion as well. I couldn't hear a huge difference between the middle and most expensive.... I found the "cheapest" one didn't sound as full and the lower tones and higher tone sounded more reedy and not as much depth. THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN FOR gifting our hears with music
I would love to get lessons but my hands and fingers don't work as well as in former days. So l give lessons But can't play my instruments for longer than just a fewminutes. To show what l mean for my pupils it's enough but l sadly nearly can't play but my guitar for 1/2hour and my viola for about 1/4hour. The cello about 5 min. But it's so sad!
Can totally tell the difference! Oddly enough I loved the base in the second one but understood the important of precision on the last. Beautiful playing made me tear up at the end, thanks for sharing!
Significant differences. first, cello while quite nice, had a booming quality to lower register and not a good balance between high and lows. And, while the second cello was quite good, again the big difference to me was the quality heard in all ranges of the final instrument. Wonderful playing, by the way! Love it.
Personally the $180K Cello had the most pleasing overall sound to me. I'm not much of a musician I just know what I like and I thought the tone was very pleasing. It was very clear without sounding bright. Actually they all were lovely and all were played so masterfully. Very talented young lady.
The $180K cello is very aggressive vs the $1,000K cello which is smooth and balanced over the entire spectrum. The $180k cello pleases me when I want to hear raw forceful reverberation, which is most of the time. Both cellos are extremely soulful and I appreciate both equally over the $5k cello.
touch the numbers to go to the starting time on the 3 instruments: 1:24/ 3:49/ 6:13 some interesting timemarks: 2:19/ 4:45/ 7:07 2:34/ 4:59/ 7:22 3:21/ 5:46/ 8:09 3:27/ 5:52/ 8:15 comparing these timemarks I was surprised to see that her interpretation changes quite a bit from one instrument to another, which is very logical if we stop to think, she responds to diferent instruments in different ways. basicaly the main difference is the accuracy: the more expensive, the more responsive the instrument is. The cheaper one quite wobbles sometimes, as the most expensive she has to be even more aware as it responds to the slightest nuances of touch. the irony is that the cheaper student's instrument demands more knowledge to give a good sound. she seems more familiar with the second one. It was remarkable , to me at least, how much each execution is a new organic thing. edit: wow! what a surprise to see so many positive feedbacks, and 1 thousand likes in one week? Thank you for your support. Really appreciated.
The $180 thousand dollar cello had the best delivery of the bass notes, but the million dollar cello had absolute perfection in one register, so much so that it was nostalgic, almost spiritual.
Thanks Dani; I used your time stamps and the right-key to switch between instruments. Clearly the most expensive Cello has like a 'wider' sound at the higher frequencies
I'm a classical guitarist not a cellist, but you can hear and feel the uniqueness of each instrument ( that's why we choose different guitars for different pieces.). To my ear, the 5k cello was much brighter and at times harsh, but not displeasing. The 180k instrument was milder, not as brassy yet had a strong voice. The 1 mil cello was much softer, mellow and as smooth as silk. I enjoyed all three and probably the artistry of Wendy the most. Types of wood, finish, craftsmanship and aging all produce some very unique instruments, each with their very own qualities.
Shannon is correct. We choose the instrument by its sound, and we are all drawn to different timbres. While I will have disagreement from the classical guitarists, here it goes. When the first cello was played, my initial thought was "spruce top guitar." Overly bright. Find an instrument that draws you to its sound. They are a joy to play.
Old choral director and cello lover here..wonderful video, a real pleasure and everything Shannon said, spot on. Thank you playing on you tube.....Gail
If you did a blind test I wonder how many people could really identify them. I think the $1M was most mellow, but the other two I'd have a hard time distinguishing. I certainly could not have told you the value of any without them being labeled. But hey, I'm a rock guitarist. I probably shouldn't even be allowed in here. 😂
Thank you for breaking down the video. I watched Wendy's arm motions as she moved the bow on each one. There was a definite difference between 5K and 1M. Not sure how much that impacted the more mellow sound of the 1M cello.
I listened on my cellphone and could barely hear any difference between the three. One thing I could hear clearly was how amazing you are with your instrument. Thank you for brightening my day.
If by that you mean it had a more subdued low response, then I agree. That probably comes from the age of the wood. As hardwoods age, they become harder and less resonant. Imagine what it sounded like when new.
The $5k was very bright, almost metallic sounding, heavy vibration in the bottom end. The $1mil one even tones across the board, but I also believe you played it with less intensity, beautiful instrument. But would choose the $180k. Much more broad midsection in sound, where all of the emotional expression should be. The highs blend perfectly to the mid scale, and the lows reaffirm the same. The most well rounded of all three. But what do I know? I made up my own technical terms.
As a sound engineer, I love how quickly the resonance of the 1M Cello die down to make room for the other notes. Consistency of the notes and tone is incredible. Liked the clear and sharpe sound of the $180k sound too.
I'm actually surprised at the difference. They all sounded pretty good but the mega$ cello sound was more focused and balanced. Your performance seemed better too so I think it's obvious which one you liked best. 😅
I side with u on the part of sound quality. All of them sound great but 1m dollar cello brings out all the notes well and clear. Thanks to the talent who brings out as best as she can. 👏👏👏
Yes... The 1 million dollar cello is analogous to high end speakers that separate all the overtones. But it's more than that. It also has the most high inharmonic and harmonic overtones, which really makes it sound so much more complex and rich. Its draw is sooooo clean and dry.
I'm a cellist and I have played 5000, 50,000 and over a million (Stradivarius). Doing it yourself has quite a profound impact. I just played one note on the strad, and I had to stop to gain my composure. The teacher took the cello back because I looked too overwhelmed by it emotionally. I just played one note on a strad in my life (so far.) That Gagliano cello reminds me of a Dutod French cello that I used to play that is now valued around 50k. It has the same focused dark sound, and a similar dark reddish-brown varnish finish.
I thought the second one has much more resonance in the deeper registers. The first one “rattled.” The third one sounded good but not enough better than the middle cello.
I think the million dollar one also had the best tonal balance. All across the lowest and highest note it feels so uniform. I would still prefer the 180K one.
There are other factors to take into account... is each cello strung with the same type/brand of strings, and is she using the same bow? You're gonna get a different sound quality with shitty strings, and using a fiberglass bow versus a wood bow.
I do think the middle one has the richest sound, but there's something about the strad. it's something I can't really put my finger on.. like it's mysterious. Maybe it's not as obviously beautiful but it seems to have its own emotion. it's more complex.
@@y0utuberculosis yeah the middle one is beautiful. Though I will say the last one is not a strad. I play the cello and will probably never own one more that like 20 thousand since I never want to do it professionally or anything. The last one might be the prettiest one though. The wood is a beautiful amberish colour.
Funny: For me the difference between the first and the second Cello was way bigger than the difference between the second and the third. But both of them sounded much more resonant, full and clear than the first. Super impressive!
That's the Law of Diminishing Returns at work. Beyond a certain point, which depends on the type of gadget or instrument, paying more does not necessarily translate into getting more -- at least not 6 times as much.
The quality of the microphone used to record all 3 cellos also impacts upon the ability to hear the difference, being in the room clearly increase the differential
Good point.. I think hearing the same song evens everything out and she didn't ask for the bias: "Which one sounds best?" She asks can you hear a difference and what do you hear. The repleis have it.
My 13 year old, a brand new cello student (4 months), and I listened. I could certainly hear a difference. More importantly I wanted him to see the possibilities of cello. Thanks to posting.
I hope your son sticks with it. I started at 12 and now at 46, my cello lives in my bedroom and brings me so much joy when I play. I never made my goal of playing backup for a rock band, but I still love to play!
The more expensive ones sound more full and less tinny - that being said I can hear a much bigger gap between the cheapest and middle one than between the two most expensive ones.
I went from $10 headphones to $130 to $400 with £300 amp/dac in the course of 15 years and its pretty much the same effect. However after listening to my current headphones and going back to $130 the difference is huge.
Agreed. The first one sounds quite tinny, the second and third much less so with a much more controlled reverberation. Particularly the bass also sounds much better (full and saturated) in the more expensive ones.
@@LadyOfTheNight. The cellos even look like peanut butter! And the sound is smooth and rich and lingering like a nice taste. Mmmm, now I'm hungry for pb&j.
As you switch to the 2nd, then 3rd - they have more body to the sound. I believe you can hear the significant difference as they reverberate in a much bigger arena. But according to his Peanut butter association - I'm allergic to CELLO's
My first impression was that the resonation of the million dollar cello was the best. There seemed to be better separation of higher pitch notes and lower pitch notes as well. In retrospect, that's all string instruments are is just a very loud resonation box for the strings. The quality of the wood, shape and positioning of the strings all go into producing the sound quality.
@@msarchive6247 Which begs the question: Is it really worth owning an expensive one over a cheaper one? For such an almost unnoticeable amount of performance?
The biggest difference I heard was in the low string. Each more expensive cello had better, cleaner tone on the low C. In the mids and upper frequencies, the two more expensive ones were more mellow and warm. Again, as the cello moved up in value, the clearer and cleaner were the tones through out the range. Very nice. Thank you.
With closed eyes listening on the couch I had the same ideas while describing them. The 2nd grabbed my feeling the most. Only thing I didn’t do was listen to it again on another day in a different order. The gap between the least expensive and the other two is so enormous that it enhances the experience you have while listening to the one that comes directly after that. Would be interesting to listen in 1-3-2 order again
The difference is; how does it hold up against humidity, how skewed is the the material it’s made of? You never mentioned the room it is played in. Thanks for a great video
I honestly thought I wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between them (traumatised by a Tragic Cello Incident as a child), but the difference between the first and second was astonishing- the leap in clarity and crispness was enormous. The difference between the second and third was more subtle to me, but I can still say I heard an additional richness and depth. Thank you so much for this- I really have wondered about this for years.
@@deborahlong4417 I took cello lessons, and pretty much the entire mess was tragic, but when I broke a string, that was the humiliating end of the matter. How, you may ask, does anyone break a string on a cello? Trying to tune it an octave too high. That’s how. It was at that point I gave up in despair.
@@megamadchief8098 That actually makes me feel much better, now, decades later. Though I’m still glad I never told my choir director about such a colossal blunder. He would have given me that disappointed look and I would have imploded on the spot.
that was my feeling as well. the 2nd one had a mellow, rich, deep tone to it. the $1m had more of a crisper, richer tone to it which was exquisite in its own right, but the 2nd one was more appealing to me. btw... speaking of exquisite...i’m in awe of you playing that piece three times flawlessly. well done. thanks for the demo. 💙💜💚🙏
Wow. I thought, after listening and going back and forth between them, that maybe my ear wasn't so good, because in the end, I liked the 2nd one best. Then I came down to the comment section and find that pretty much everyone else did as well. If my ear is off, so is everyone else's.
I usually assume these videos are gimmicky, but I'm not gonna lie: the million-dollar cello sounds .... like a million bucks. It sounds very noticeably better. Incredible resonance and richness of tone. Just beautiful. Lovely, and thank you for playing these so wonderfully for us.
Agree! I'm amateur listener, so I didn't think the difference between the 5k & the 180k was noticeable enough to justify the price difference, but...ditto what ^this guy^ said about the Gagliano. I definitely heard the difference in tone & timbre & I don't even play cello. It was palpably gorgeous. Maybe some ridiculously rich patron will buy it for Wendy & she can play it all the time.
The 2nd cello sounded nicest (very warm, rich, velvety, strong, deep bass, and clear). The 1st cello sounded nice yet cold (not warm) and crisp (not velvety) and more treble than the 1st and 3rd cellos. I'm sure some ears will prefer the 1st if you like a cold crisp sound. The 3rd cello sounded semi-similar to the 2nd cello, yet the 2nd cello sounded warmer and deeper bass, although the 3rd cello seemed to project a little more (i.e., more volume).
@@RP-rw6jj My opinion is that the 1st cello sounded pretty bad especially on the bass string sort of like the horrible buzzing sound when one doesn't fret a guitar correctly. The $180,000 one sounded a lot better to me, but I honestly couldn't tell a difference between the $180,000 and $1 million one. And that's listening with good headphones. Perhaps on a 2nd listen I might be able to, but perhaps it'd take hearing them in person to truly have a chance at telling the difference. Even as great as recorded music is now, there still is something to be said for hearing something in person.
Just a hack metal guitarist, but I'll be dammed. Skipped a head, thinking there'd be brakes. All of a sudden boom. Buzzing gone, tone is clean as hell. Makes me rethink that fancy guitar I've been looking at!
Thank you for this video. I realize it was done 3 years ago, but I just found it. I have an extremely limited music background, but I can definitely hear the difference! The first was tinny sounding. The second had more body and was more balanced. The third picked up every nuance and beautiful richness of every note. I could even see how your body reacted to some of the sounds you were creating- as if you were moved by it’s lushness.
I could hear the difference, but can’t explain what the difference is, the more expensive just sound better. 😂The difference to me between the 5000 and 180,000 was bigger than the difference between the 180,000 and 1,000,000 to me.
The 2nd one on the lower notes, had less "rattling" vibration which was harsh. Also the sound was richer. The resonance of the last one was richer, deeper, no rattling, and the low notes sounded perfect.
Honestly, the $180,000 cello had the most responsive and resonate sound of the three, especially on the D and A string, which was most pleasing to my ears. Very rich timbre.
I also agree. The 180k cello was night and day better than the 5k cello. The million dollar cello did offer a noticeable improvement but not an 800k improvement. Perhaps in person the difference is more pronounced.
The first cello sounded a bit scratchy; the tone left we wanting more clarity. The 2nd cello had a cleaner tone and much more resonance. The 3rd cello had the best clarity and was still resonant.
I agree about the clarity of the third one I was thinking the sound was sharper but that's kind of what I meant. The first one just sounded flat and dull. Not so sure how I feel about the middle one.
I agree with this. There was a big difference in clarity and depth between cellos #1 and #2, however the difference between cellos #2 and #3 was not as great. If tone is the primary driver of these instruments' value, I'd say that the jump from $180K to $1M is probably not worth it. There would have to be other reasons to justify the $1M price tag. (Being made by a famous builder, being a well preserved and playable historical antique, prestigious history of ownership, etc.)
@@worthdixon1072 Just my opinion but the intonation and right hand technique of the musician is far more important than the two bling instruments. A virtuoso will make a $5K instrument sing.
Oh yes. Million dollar one definitely sounds best. Most balanced sound, not too much bass, not too much treble, good all-around tone. The 180,000 had too much boomy Bass. 10 of those in an orchestra could make a very odd sound... The first, least expensive cello was just too squeaky, too sharp, not well-balanced in tone. For $5,000 you can get a pretty good six string acoustic guitar. I guess that's not the case for a cello... No pun intended. Thanks for the video, it was informative. For those wondering, I was listening on TH-cam with reference speakers. Tube preamp into a class D amp. The differences were very clear, thank you. And you play wonderfully!
The most expensive holds a deeper, richer tone in the lower register. As the value of the instrument increases, the warmth of the notes increase..... Would not have noticed it not being compared. Thank you.... Such a talented musician- of course!
Yes, the lower registers were warmer, richer and fuller. Also, it seems the more subtle strokes, the vibrato had a more expressive, emotive quality which also has much to do with the performer's touch.
I came to same conclusion having somebody play it in blind random trial. The 1M cello seemed louder, compared to 180k cello too loud, in the high frequencies (registers). But when listening on a mediocre to cheap loudspeakers or not paying attention the 5k is just fine. Maybe during concerts, Wendy can quickly switch between the 180k and the 2M cellos depending on which registers dominate.
The step from 5k to 180k is noticable better (when listening with good stereo speakers). But what would a harmonious chorus of 36 5k cellos sound like compared to the one 180k cello?
For me the 5k cello sounded "muddier", The second one was obviously different. The notes were more defined, crisper. The million dollar cello was similar but it added a richness to the low notes.
Tansi means Hello in my Native Cree Language, from Canada. I happened to come across this youtube channel and was interested in watching. Personally I think you make every cello you played sound spectacular! The one that stood out to me the most was the 180,000 cello, sounds more smooth. Thank you for sharing the differences so much to learn! Hiy Hiy means Thank you in my language.
The difference between the first cello and the second was profound. The second cello sounded tighter and more vibrant, smooth. It made the first cello sound sloppy somehow. The third cello had the similar quality as the second but also had more echoey deep tones that make it sound hauntingly beautiful somehow.
You should hear how succulent and velvety smooth the dulcet tones my butthole makes after a couple beers and Chinese takeout with a lot o broccoli. Woo baby
@LaBronco I really like the way your reply is worded. Now I can find my words. The first was a struggle to make it sound good, the second was tonally balanced, the third one had much smoother dynamic changes. Akin to a choir from people randomly pulled off the street, a well rehearsed choir with good singers, a well rehearsed choir of Juilliard graduates under a great conductor.
@@msarchive6247 I know nothing about cellos or music for that matter. To my uneducated ear the second sounded the best. But what do I know really? The real talent is the in the musician.
Yeah. It almost sounds like a more "chambery" sound with the million dollar chello. It sounds like the sound is coming from a larger, deeper, richer place. Hard to describe, but I can definitely tell the difference. I think chambery is the best way to describe it
If you spend like $25 you’ll probably get something that’s much much better than what you’re using now and is like 80% of what a $250 pair will get you. Check some wirecutter reviews. Your ears deserve better.
Daniel_H212 your $5 earphones are probably better than my $300 Sony headphones that are broken in so many ways. Listen to the other comment about the $25 dollar earphones. I wish I would have instead of buying these expensive stupid headphones
I could definitely hear a difference in each one. The first one compared to the second had a more ‘harsh’ sound; the notes of the second one ‘melted’ together. The last one was even more so. Absolutely all were beautiful with you playing! I would be interested in looking at the height of the strings on each one and even doing a comparison of each as to what the physical differences are. That would be so interesting! Thank you , Wendy! ❤👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I KNOW RIGHT! I used to be one of those, who cares how much it costs types? Is there truly a difference? And this vid made me take several seats!!! Funny just to think a $3k cello is considered mid. But I mean the bassoon is not exactly a cheapy instrument either lol I agree with your assessment. ;)
I might not be able to pick them out in a blind test, but I thought the $180k cello had the best resonance, and for me that was the most pleasing to listen to. Honestly, your consistency as a player really makes all 3 cellos shine.
The difference between a very expensive instrument and a collosally expensive instrument is usually just rarity and "brand name". if it was made by a famous master who is dead, it's automatically worth a lot more, even if a cello produced last year by someone just as talented is 10% of the price. Are some of these instruments "better"? Sure, probably. It's entirely reasonable to assume that the BEST person to ever make a particular instrument which has been made for hundreds of years may not be living today. Or that materials available hundreds of years ago may no longer exist, like many types of extremely old growth hard woods which were common centuries ago and now incredibly rare.
the cheapest cello sounds ok enough. the second one is somewhat better...may be more rich. the third one is different, but not significantly better that the second one.
The second one was much smoother than the first one. The third one sounded more soulful....but may be Im affected because I know which is more expensive. A better experiment would be to play all three whithout telling people which is which.
The first sounded mushy, with a distracting background buzz. The second sound smooth and clear and well defined. I could listen all day. The third sounded smooth and mellow and rich. It’s tone caressed and enveloped me.
I thought the sound in the 180k was a bit better. Wasn't too impressed by the sound for the 1.5M cello. The cheapo well sounded cheap after being spoiled by the two high end. YOU WERE RIGHT, SHE SHOULD NOT HAVE SAID WHICH IS WHICH.
That was an interesting experience getting to hear you play these three cellos sequentially. The 150k$ actually gave me chill bumps as you began to play it but when you played the E and A strings it began to have a dry timber sound without deep resonance, and it added quite a lot of acoustic echo even though the 5k sounded more balanced and the lows were producing more resonance which helped to make it sound deep, but then it lacked the airy characteristics of the other two. The mil-$ cello didn't give me chill bumps but it was tonally nice with the upper notes sounding crispy when supported by the ajacent lower harmonic. 3/4through the song a note was ever so slightly flat, but didn't sound that way the first two times. Was the body more difficult to support it than the others? Not sure. I love your playing and the life you bring to all of which you play.
$5000 cello: *plays music* Me: Yeah, sounds nice. $180,000 cello: *plays music* Me: Yeah, sounds nice. $1,000,000 cello: *plays music* Me: Yeah, sounds nice. Not a cello player but I liked the $180k sound better. To me, it had a warmer and fuller sound. And then the last two were more responsive than the $5k one on the C string, in my opinion.
The lowest and highest notes were harsh sounding on the 1st one. They were much better on 2 and 3. I lived the middle one. It has a more consistent velvety tone from top to bottom.
I agree. Nicer tone altogether. Dare I say that the most expensive one sounded more like the cheapest - perhaps I prefer a less strident tone in my old age (72). :)
The $5,000 one was loud and bright, but some of the notes on the high end and low end sounded "hard." There was a big difference between the first cello and the second. The $100,000 cello sounded richer and more mellow. The $1,000,000 cello was not as loud and brash. It was more balanced throughout its range of strings when it came to quality of sound, and it just sounder "sweeter." The playing was beautiful on all 3. Thanks for sharing with us.
I agree. The sound was lovely. I honestly like the second one. It sounded much smoother and balance but you were able to use the firmness to hit bright tones when needed. I suspect the million dollar cello was older or made from wood that had been allowed to dry cure longer. This too happens to guitars and a performer needs to find a balance of what they wish to do and how mellow their tone can be.
on a oppo ha-2 se paired with fostext50rp i agree with every once what you say minus "sweeter" and would call it deeper/ meaty / heartier what was you listing on ?
I agree. I preferred the middle one. Significantly better sound than the cheaper cello. Notes more defined. Yes the most expensive was the best sound and range differences but, not enough to warrant the huge price difference. Only a professional, or talented amateur would be able to notice the difference between the last two if played independently of each other.
With you playing them, they all sounded beautiful. For my own ear, I could not really hear a huge difference between the middle and the last. But, I will say that the middle sounded the warmest and I really enjoyed it,
There’s an apocryphal story about Jascha Heifetz when he met a fan after a concert he did. She said to him “I really love the sound of your violin.”. Heifetz then puts the violin to his ear and says “Really? I don’t hear anything.”. ☺️
The first had a brassy undertone. The second was full and buttery. The third sounded like I was in the middle of the sound, so lovely and intense. In the overall quality I hear it most in the deep notes. That’s where I think most will hear it even if they don’t recognize that.
Wow, listening from my iPad the 180 was solid, but the 1M seemed 3 dimensional. Popping on the headphones, listening to various parts of the music…..the clarity and depth of each note from the 1M is amazing. The 180 still sounds good….nice balance…..but the 1m is incredible. Your talent is truly amazing. Thank you for doing these videos. I love your work!
I felt the 180K one had a sweetness across the tones that my ear liked the best-also the overtones reverberate beautifully. The 1 million had great high and low tones-superior to the 180K but I picked up a vibration off the G-string in the mid tones that my ear did not like. The 5K instrument had a lovely sound in your hands, but had a tightness that the other two did not.
Not to mention the harshness on certain notes that was not present in the other two. Of course I don't know squat about them either way but that stood out to me.
The difference between the 5k and the 180k cellos was most noticeable, especially the lower tones and the overall cleanliness of the sound, but the 1M cello sounds even better. The difference between the 180k and the 1M cellos was not that big, though. Anyway, what makes the biggest difference is you, Wendy, playing them! You’re really awesome!
the 1m was most noticeably different to me. the clarity richness of the deep tones the way they blended together - i’d never want to play anything else after that.
I would say that the jump from the $5000 to the $180K was much more obvious than the $180K to $1M. It is rather amazing how the harshness in the lower cost cello does not exist as the cost and quality increases. I would love to hear a string quartet do this every same demonstration. Also, I would like to know what that feels like as a musician. I would guess that the way that the body of the cello vibrates just feels better as you play making it a more enjoyable experience. Edit: I just rewatched just the beginning of each and watched your face and with the first you looked like it felt off. The sound and feel wasn’t right to you. The second was a joy for you to play. Your smile looked real as I am sure it was. The third hit you on a deep emotional level. You had a moment that you looked into the camera and conveyed so much feeling that it actually made me cry. Your talent is undeniable, but I am amazed at how much your instrument can put that talent on full display.
As a musician you can feel the difference in the quality of the instrument. I am (was) a tubist in HS I was first chair in the Senior Concert Band and I got to play a King "Monster" a 4 valve DB Flat that used to belong to the first chair in the Toronto Symphony. It dated from the 1930s. The sound I was able to get out of it was so dark and rich it echoed in your soul. 35 years later I still long for it.
Absolutely, I can tell the difference especially with the upper and lower registers. The million dollar cello has such a mellow and rich tone! Love it! ❤
Thanks for posting the start times. Listening to one version all the way through and then some description and then the next, I cannot compare them. With the start times posted I can hear each cello one right after the other. Thanks.
See, I don't know if the differences I'm hearing are based more on your performance or the instrument. Yes, the first instrument sounds less consistent throughout the note range to me. The second has a lovely high end, and tonally it doesn't stray as much as the first, and to mh untrained ear, sounds the most consistent. On the last instrument it sounds like you're getting more octave harmonics on top of your notes, but I don't know enough about bowed instruments to tell if it's due to your attack or the instrument itself. Overall I prefer the second instrument. The notes seem to be more consistent across the neck, and harmonically cleaner - maybe more direct, with a really pleasant high end. I'm certain you could play on a bad student model from a music store's rental department and it'd sound as lovely to my ears - you're such a brilliant player ♡
As you progressed from 1 to 3 the sound of each Cello increased in richness especially bass notes. The million dollar Cello had the richest sound on both musical scales. Thank you, well played. 🎉
I read about such a comparison they did several years ago with violins. All involving top violinists, with the same acoustics (same hotel room), same everything. It was a "blindfold" test and I think I remember that a majority of those elite musicians thought the newly made violin model sounded better than the million dollar Strad. Go figure. I guess maybe with today's technology, analysis, and materials we can make some pretty nice instruments even at a budget price. But, considering when those old instruments were made, (1666-1737, or about 325 years ago ?), it's amazing that even with today's tech we can't make anything better. And like in the "Red Violin" movie, the provenance and history of an instrument can't be duplicated. It's part of the charm - hearing an instrument so many greats have played.
The first cello's deep notes were too dominant and somewhat rasping. The second one had a more balanced volume throughout - the bass if anything was a little weak compared to the higher notes, but there was no rasping. The final cello was back to being bass dominant, though not to the same degree as the first, and there was no rasping. I preferred the middle one.
Glad i wasn’t imagining the issue with the bass on the first. It was almost like fret buzz on a guitar, and at times the high notes.. i want to say saw tooth waves but i don’t think that’s it. The tone was replaced with a shrillness/sharpness.
The first and third cellos sounded good, but they were a bit muted and bland like she was playing them in a small room which she was. The second (middle) cello sounded as if it was being played in a much grander space because the acoustics were 3-dimensional. Lovely.
Hmm there is no doubt that her technique is perfect and I'm 100% sure she is an awesome cellist, but in my personal opinion there could be some more emotion. And I'd also play it a bit slower because this suite is so powerful and playing it a bit slower would make the power more "hearable"?
The $5K one was hard and more "brittle" sounding. The middle one was more musical and even-sounding from string to string. Melodic. The $1M one was similar to the middle one, but I still prefer the middle instrument. Of course string type and brands would also make a difference. Are we to presume all had the same strings? Great playing.
Yes, the middle cello was so smooth, warm, almost buttery compared to the other two. The million dollar one was almost too much for me in the lower ranges.
What if you get distracted and drop it? 😁👌 Pricing is ridiculous. The variance is too extreme. A flagship Steinway concert piano is around $250k... Do much more instrument posts and man hours..vs any of the cellos. Even if it's rare. A Strad... Unless it was played by Back himself Heh...
I’d sell it and buy the $180,000 one (so that it didn’t hurt my career) and live off the $820,000. The second and third instrument sounded the same. The first one was close though.
The first cello seemed to have "loose" low end, as if the body of the cello wasn't stiff enough to really control the vibration properly. As a cello' strings are tuned by tightening or loosening them, there is no way to just tighten strings to fix this issue, as it would have thrown the lower strings out of tune. Harmonically, multiple strings playing together seemed to not have the harmony they should have. I would surmise by her expert playing later that this was an instrument issue. The second cello was noticeably better. The low end loose vibration was cleaned up and sounded a lot less sloppy. The harmonics when multiple strings were played at the same time were better than the first. The third cello of course was brilliant. Every note sounded like the instrument was doing it's job, and there wasn't any of the vibration or slop noted with earlier instruments. The harmonics were far superior as well... like Ms. Law was getting the cello to sing. Needless to say, she is a fine musician that was able to make use of the range and superior tone of a million dollar cello. I really enjoyed this video...thank you for posting it!
A man of culture I see however it's not just the strings that different in each it comes down to the actually instrument arms it was also a difference of volume when she was playing
First of all thank you. I have always wondered what the difference, in sound, is between a regular string instrument and a gold standard instrument. The regular is more tinny, especially at the low string, but sounds wonderful when not beside a more expensive cello. Now I understand the meaning of a “warmer” sound. The expensive cello has more distinct notes and that deep string is right on. I have a poor ear for music (great for languages though), but I completely appreciate your demonstration. Laymen like to know things too.
The million-dollar cello sound much better to me. The low chords were more palatable on the more expensive one. On the less expensive one they seem to grate my nerves a bit. Overall, I have to say; it doesn't matter which one you play you are exceptional!
I agree. That's where I heard a difference was in the lower tones. The higher prices instruments had more melodic lower notes and sounded smoother. I enjoyed them all and thank you
I noticed it sounding better, right away. It sounded like it played better; more smoothly. I didn’t think I’d notice a difference, but it sounded like a million bucks! 😄
After hearing how grating the bass notes are - I was trying to think of a word for it but yours will do - I was waiting to hear what the 1 mill cello would be like. It's still there lol. Not as smooth as I would have expected. But I know nothing about these instruments. I also didn't think I had to impatiently wait while she played the whole piece 😂. Honestly, just playing parts of it is enough. Had to skip some.
As a cellist and a large fan of cello sound, I can say that I did not notice a particular difference between 5k and 1M cells in the entire range and 180k in the upper register. I liked the sound of 180k in the lower register most of all, it differs markedly, a more glorious dark -skinned saturated than other tools.
@@v3szpilman1 I listened on good studio monitors and studio headphones. And so, for good, you need to listen to all this live using the blind listening method, especially since TH-cam cuts frequencies over 16 kHz.
as a Cellist, I have to say, that to me, the middle one has a full, warm, melodic sound, especially in the lover register. I love all three in their own way, but to play this Bach Suite, I enjoyed the second Cello. I would love to play it.
I thought the Second Cello had a better natural reverb and overall tone, but it was clear the million dollar Cello brought out an emotion in your playing not present in the other two...and this made it FEEL the best.
Agree. I said this out loud. That she obviously likes the sound of the most expensive. I'm sure it has to do with what she hears, the reverb around her that makes a difference too.
@Fernando Martinez She was done playing at the end of the video, so digital applause is therefore appropriate. Thank you for the useful information, by the way. I'll keep that in mind for any performances I go to.
Kind of sad she's not wearing gloves and getting her greasy fingers all over a million dollar instrument, also manhandling it before playing like it's some cheap piece of garbage.
I didn’t expect to hear that much of a difference. The first one was beautiful. The second one, immediately with the depth of the bass notes, my eyebrows lifted, and I thought “Oh, wow!“. 😳 Then with the million dollar one I didn’t expect a difference, and yet it was so smooth it was both more soft and more full. And then, at the crescendo just before the end, suddenly tears came to my eyes!😢 I was not expecting that. Thank you for your post, it was all very beautiful.
I agree, the bass notes from the first had an unpleasant buzz that wasn't as pronounced in the others. But I found the difference between #2 and #3 to be much more subtle. This was a wonderful exercise. Thank you so much!
I did not expect to actually hear THAT much difference, but I DID! Number one was over powered in the volume of the lower notes and muddy sounding. Number 2 was a vastly superior tone throughout the range, much tighter and clearer, crisper. But number three had significantly tighter response than either of the first two. The lower registers were more defined, and I expect that the lower tones are the most difficult to produce for any cello. That last one was magnificent! Beautiful playing Miss Wendy!!! Bravo!!!
I could hear better resonance and more open notes with the two more expensive ones. They sound like the soundboards are more tuned and can express the notes more clearly.
the one in the middle sounded worse to my ears. the million dollar one definitely sounded better to me, but the cheapest didn't sound bad, just different.
The greatest difference lies between the $5,000 and the $180,000 cellos. The $1,000,000 cello projects at least as well as the 2nd one. However, it is a fuller sound and even sweeter. Beautiful playing. Best wishes and prayers for your performing and teaching businesses.
tbh it's also the fact that this is probably her first time playing the cellos, so she's probably just not able to showcase the differences as well ya kno, because it takes time to learn how an instrument likes to be played, especially the higher end ones.
Hello! My name is Carlotta, I’m 13 years old and I’m from Italy.I play cello,by many years now, and I must say that I have felt the difference between each one a lot! The sound quality was getting higher and higher and I must say the million dollar cello enchanted me! :)
To a great degree it also depends on the speakers and amplifier setup you have for your computer. My feeling is that probably most of the subtle differences get lost in "translation" except for the most glaring ones. To me, the third one seemed to have fuller tonal quality and be less "boomy" (softer) than the other two...
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❤️Fnd out all about the Cello Mastery Academy Launch here: www.wendylaw.com/links
awww was hoping to hear your opinion as well. I couldn't hear a huge difference between the middle and most expensive.... I found the "cheapest" one didn't sound as full and the lower tones and higher tone sounded more reedy and not as much depth. THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN FOR gifting our hears with music
I would love to get lessons but my hands and fingers don't work as well as in former days. So l give lessons But can't play my instruments for longer than just a fewminutes. To show what l mean for my pupils it's enough but l sadly nearly can't play but my guitar for 1/2hour and my viola for about 1/4hour. The cello about 5 min. But it's so sad!
You are so cute ❤️
Can totally tell the difference! Oddly enough I loved the base in the second one but understood the important of precision on the last. Beautiful playing made me tear up at the end, thanks for sharing!
Wendy Law, thank you for the inspiration. I play bass guitar and have been intrigued by the cello. I am going to work toward learning this instrument.
Give them to me and I will make them sound like 10 dollar cellos
You kill me 😂😂😂😂👌🏻
lol
Lmao
Significant differences. first, cello while quite nice, had a booming quality to lower register and not a good balance between high and lows. And, while the second cello was quite good, again the big difference to me was the quality heard in all ranges of the final instrument. Wonderful playing, by the way! Love it.
Give it to me I’ll accidentally break the million dollar one trying to tune it
The Cello start times are:
$5k -1:20
$180k - 3:45
$1M - 6:05
Like this to keep it near the top.
Thanks. I like the first cello but she didn’t slap.
Wow, such courage bossing me around like that
They all sound the same to me
@@ikeofili355 You're welcome
@@ikeofili355 you didn’t even know you needed it huh?
The real art is making each cello sound like a million dollars. Such talent!!!
Thanks Robin
This is the most beautiful comment I’ve ever seen on the internet. And utterly true. 🥰
Nice comment, though my ear liked the middle one's sound the most!
Perfect!!
Agree ^^
Personally the $180K Cello had the most pleasing overall sound to me. I'm not much of a musician I just know what I like and I thought the tone was very pleasing. It was very clear without sounding bright. Actually they all were lovely and all were played so masterfully. Very talented young lady.
That’s what I thought too
The $180K cello is very aggressive vs the $1,000K cello which is smooth and balanced over the entire spectrum. The $180k cello pleases me when I want to hear raw forceful reverberation, which is most of the time. Both cellos are extremely soulful and I appreciate both equally over the $5k cello.
And, I must say this gals skill at making a cello sing is AMAZING!
the million dollar one seemed to have more volume.
That’s what I thought too
The first one sounds the best when you imagine what you can do with the remaining $995k while listening to it.
Nice one
haha no shit
Lol
Lol!
LOL, literally laughing out loud and brought family members over to read this! The practicality of this cuts like a hot knife through butter.
Sounds like million dollar talent on all three.
Well you just made my week! Thanks Frank!!! I appreciate it.
I agree!! She made each one sound amazing!!
Mariel S. I wish I had an ear for music. It all sounds the same to me
Frank Hicks - Nicely said!
If I played the million dollar one, it would sound absolutely rubbish! It’s the player, not the instrument!
touch the numbers to go to the starting time on the 3 instruments:
1:24/ 3:49/ 6:13
some interesting timemarks:
2:19/ 4:45/ 7:07
2:34/ 4:59/ 7:22
3:21/ 5:46/ 8:09
3:27/ 5:52/ 8:15
comparing these timemarks I was surprised to see that her interpretation changes quite a bit from one instrument to another, which is very logical if we stop to think, she responds to diferent instruments in different ways.
basicaly the main difference is the accuracy: the more expensive, the more responsive the instrument is.
The cheaper one quite wobbles sometimes, as the most expensive she has to be even more aware as it responds to the slightest nuances of touch.
the irony is that the cheaper student's instrument demands more knowledge to give a good sound.
she seems more familiar with the second one.
It was remarkable , to me at least, how much each execution is a new organic thing.
edit: wow! what a surprise to see so many positive feedbacks, and 1 thousand likes in one week? Thank you for your support. Really appreciated.
Your coment is underrated
👏 comment of the century
You did really helpful thing 👏👏👏👏👏👏
My goodness...... Your comment is so wonderful
Top class reply, thank you!
The $180 thousand dollar cello had the best delivery of the bass notes, but the million dollar cello had absolute perfection in one register, so much so that it was nostalgic, almost spiritual.
The Parts you were searching for:
$5.000 Cello: 1:20
$180.000 Cello: 3:43
$1.000.000 Cello: 6:07
You are welcome
Thanks @ 1, 2, & 3! 🐤
Thanks Dani; I used your time stamps and the right-key to switch between instruments. Clearly the most expensive Cello has like a 'wider' sound at the higher frequencies
Hero
Thanks 😎🥰
@@-HolySpiritDove- ¿How must we interpret your nickname? ¿Are you catholic?
I'm a classical guitarist not a cellist, but you can hear and feel the uniqueness of each instrument ( that's why we choose different guitars for different pieces.). To my ear, the 5k cello was much brighter and at times harsh, but not displeasing. The 180k instrument was milder, not as brassy yet had a strong voice. The 1 mil cello was much softer, mellow and as smooth as silk. I enjoyed all three and probably the artistry of Wendy the most. Types of wood, finish, craftsmanship and aging all produce some very unique instruments, each with their very own qualities.
👏👏👏👏
Agree!
Shannon is correct. We choose the instrument by its sound, and we are all drawn to different timbres. While I will have disagreement from the classical guitarists, here it goes. When the first cello was played, my initial thought was "spruce top guitar." Overly bright. Find an instrument that draws you to its sound. They are a joy to play.
too much words
Old choral director and cello lover here..wonderful video, a real pleasure and everything Shannon said, spot on. Thank you playing on you tube.....Gail
For those, like me, that wanted to skip around to compare:
1:24 5k Cello
3:49 180k Cello
6:13 1Mil Cello
Doing the collective's work. Take a high five !
If you did a blind test I wonder how many people could really identify them. I think the $1M was most mellow, but the other two I'd have a hard time distinguishing. I certainly could not have told you the value of any without them being labeled. But hey, I'm a rock guitarist. I probably shouldn't even be allowed in here. 😂
Thank you for breaking down the video. I watched Wendy's arm motions as she moved the bow on each one. There was a definite difference between 5K and 1M. Not sure how much that impacted the more mellow sound of the 1M cello.
Hero of the day
Thanks man, this helped a lot and saved some work.
I listened on my cellphone and could barely hear any difference between the three. One thing I could hear clearly was how amazing you are with your instrument. Thank you for brightening my day.
It's hard to hear any difference between them because I'm listening on a cell phone. But your exquisite playing over shadows any real difference.
cell phone is trash
They all had their unique sound. The million dollar instrument handled the resonance of the low notes in the most sonically pleasing way.
i'm too stupid for these types of things... but i would like to think i can agree with you...
If by that you mean it had a more subdued low response, then I agree. That probably comes from the age of the wood. As hardwoods age, they become harder and less resonant. Imagine what it sounded like when new.
I agree
The $5k was very bright, almost metallic sounding, heavy vibration in the bottom end. The $1mil one even tones across the board, but I also believe you played it with less intensity, beautiful instrument. But would choose the $180k. Much more broad midsection in sound, where all of the emotional expression should be. The highs blend perfectly to the mid scale, and the lows reaffirm the same. The most well rounded of all three.
But what do I know?
I made up my own technical terms.
@@brickovenfarmandfare8653 Compromise?
As a sound engineer, I love how quickly the resonance of the 1M Cello die down to make room for the other notes. Consistency of the notes and tone is incredible. Liked the clear and sharpe sound of the $180k sound too.
Exactly what I was thinking- thanks for your words and expertise
I'm actually surprised at the difference. They all sounded pretty good but the mega$ cello sound was more focused and balanced. Your performance seemed better too so I think it's obvious which one you liked best. 😅
The $180k and $1mil definitely sound sharper
I side with u on the part of sound quality. All of them sound great but 1m dollar cello brings out all the notes well and clear. Thanks to the talent who brings out as best as she can. 👏👏👏
Yes...
The 1 million dollar cello is analogous to high end speakers that separate all the overtones.
But it's more than that. It also has the most high inharmonic and harmonic overtones, which really makes it sound so much more complex and rich. Its draw is sooooo clean and dry.
1:24 - $5000 cello starts
3:49 - $180,000 cello starts
6:13 - $1,000,000 cello starts
Thank you so much
I was looking that comment 🤭
THIS COMMENT DESERVES TO BE ON TOP GUYS C'MON
You're so conscientious. Thank you! :)
The hero we all need
I'm a cellist and I have played 5000, 50,000 and over a million (Stradivarius). Doing it yourself has quite a profound impact. I just played one note on the strad, and I had to stop to gain my composure. The teacher took the cello back because I looked too overwhelmed by it emotionally. I just played one note on a strad in my life (so far.) That Gagliano cello reminds me of a Dutod French cello that I used to play that is now valued around 50k. It has the same focused dark sound, and a similar dark reddish-brown varnish finish.
My favorite was the second one it was the warmest and it’s tones were so rich and velvety. The million dollar one was brighter but still beautiful.
I'll second that!
I thought the second one has much more resonance in the deeper registers. The first one “rattled.” The third one sounded good but not enough better than the middle cello.
My favorit was also the second 👌
I think the million dollar one also had the best tonal balance. All across the lowest and highest note it feels so uniform. I would still prefer the 180K one.
Agree. Middle one gave the clearest sound. The cheep one was to resonant
I prefer the middle one- smoother, richer without harshness.
I totally agree, opinion not worth Zim $1
There are other factors to take into account... is each cello strung with the same type/brand of strings, and is she using the same bow? You're gonna get a different sound quality with shitty strings, and using a fiberglass bow versus a wood bow.
I do think the middle one has the richest sound, but there's something about the strad. it's something I can't really put my finger on.. like it's mysterious. Maybe it's not as obviously beautiful but it seems to have its own emotion. it's more complex.
@@y0utuberculosis yeah the middle one is beautiful. Though I will say the last one is not a strad. I play the cello and will probably never own one more that like 20 thousand since I never want to do it professionally or anything. The last one might be the prettiest one though. The wood is a beautiful amberish colour.
@@kimberley9089 ah yeah she mentioned playing the strad at juilliard and I confused that thinking this one was also a strad.
Funny: For me the difference between the first and the second Cello was way bigger than the difference between the second and the third. But both of them sounded much more resonant, full and clear than the first. Super impressive!
Agree, don't think the third one sounds better than the second one. Reverb was a lot better on the second one.
That's the Law of Diminishing Returns at work. Beyond a certain point, which depends on the type of gadget or instrument, paying more does not necessarily translate into getting more -- at least not 6 times as much.
I thought the same
Yes, but the third one allowed for more nimbleness and smoothness, plus lower register more resonant. Better dynamics.
I agree. I can hear a very noticeable difference between the 1st and 2nd but not much between the 2nd and 3rd.
Am I the only one thinking, "$5,000 is pretty fancy to me."?
Can we all just give her a round of applause for how well she played that piece I got goose bumps🤩
A little too fast for me
Simp
Same! Tot got goose bumps
@@travis.g__ yup, agree, way to fast
Yes I agree it is beautiful but it's so overplayed and abused
me listening to 3 cellos all through the same $8 headphones like
"man I really cant tell any difference"
Relatable
EIGHT... dollar... Headphones! Jeez, you don't need to brag, rich man. Go to the dollar store like the rest of us!
The quality of the microphone used to record all 3 cellos also impacts upon the ability to hear the difference, being in the room clearly increase the differential
kkkkkkkkkkkkkk me too
For me there's a litle bit difference between U$ 180 AND U$ 5000
The right way to compare the sound is to hide the price and let the people guest which is the best sound without any price biasing factor.
There is no "right" way, just different ways.
This was a wonderful vlog. That said i agree that a blind sound only test then a reveal is best for an unbiased comparison
Correct. Even better a double blind where the lady doesn’t know either the value of the instruments
I closed my eyes and listened.
Good point.. I think hearing the same song evens everything out and she didn't ask for the bias: "Which one sounds best?" She asks can you hear a difference and what do you hear. The repleis have it.
My 13 year old, a brand new cello student (4 months), and I listened. I could certainly hear a difference. More importantly I wanted him to see the possibilities of cello. Thanks to posting.
I hope your son sticks with it. I started at 12 and now at 46, my cello lives in my bedroom and brings me so much joy when I play. I never made my goal of playing backup for a rock band, but I still love to play!
And now he wants a $1million cello?
The more expensive ones sound more full and less tinny - that being said I can hear a much bigger gap between the cheapest and middle one than between the two most expensive ones.
Shawn Shipley agreed fully. But the most expensive had the richest sound.
Exactly! I think I like the tone of the middle one better than the other two.
Definitely wouldn’t pay the extra 820k for the third one over the second. The second seemed like it was the easiest one for her to play.
I went from $10 headphones to $130 to $400 with £300 amp/dac in the course of 15 years and its pretty much the same effect. However after listening to my current headphones and going back to $130 the difference is huge.
Agreed. The first one sounds quite tinny, the second and third much less so with a much more controlled reverberation. Particularly the bass also sounds much better (full and saturated) in the more expensive ones.
If I may describe the sounds as peanut butter:
1st Cello: Chunky Peanut Butter
2nd Cello: Creamy Peanut Butter
3rd Cello: Peanut Puree
😂 this is the funniest and most genius comment ever!! 😁
why peanut butter though
@@LadyOfTheNight. The cellos even look like peanut butter! And the sound is smooth and rich and lingering like a nice taste. Mmmm, now I'm hungry for pb&j.
Same
As you switch to the 2nd, then 3rd - they have more body to the sound. I believe you can hear the significant difference as they reverberate in a much bigger arena. But according to his Peanut butter association - I'm allergic to CELLO's
$5k cello - 1:21
$180k cello - 3:44
$1 million cello - 6:08
Thanks, this helps!
thank you bro no homo though ight
Your comment = priceless.
My first impression was that the resonation of the million dollar cello was the best. There seemed to be better separation of higher pitch notes and lower pitch notes as well.
In retrospect, that's all string instruments are is just a very loud resonation box for the strings. The quality of the wood, shape and positioning of the strings all go into producing the sound quality.
You can really notice the difference when she hits those low notes at 2:18, 4:43 & 7:05. The first one sounds like a chainsaw compared to the others.
You’re so right!!!!!!!!!!
Meh, it's so very subtle. I wouldn't even notice in a theater.
Thanks!
@@msarchive6247 Which begs the question: Is it really worth owning an expensive one over a cheaper one? For such an almost unnoticeable amount of performance?
I hear a significant difference between the last one and the others on that lowest note.
The biggest difference I heard was in the low string. Each more expensive cello had better, cleaner tone on the low C. In the mids and upper frequencies, the two more expensive ones were more mellow and warm. Again, as the cello moved up in value, the clearer and cleaner were the tones through out the range. Very nice. Thank you.
Exactly my view. Nothing to add.
Agreed
You certainly know cellos! Like pianos, low tones are always harder to deal with, which makes a good instrument different from a cheaper alternative.
Agreed!! Exactly what I heard. Cleaner and warmer tones with each upgrade :)
The cellos all produced amazing sounds, but, I kept getting distracted by the beauty playing them.
The lower notes on the 2nd one sounded fuller, richer than the other 2. On the 3rd one the sound was fuller overall. My favorite was the 2nd one.
I'm no musician, but I agree.
I had a similar impression listeing on my phone. I am sure listening live in the room is yet another world.
@@jurigelato4366 I bet you're right. Would love to hear it live
With closed eyes listening on the couch I had the same ideas while describing them. The 2nd grabbed my feeling the most. Only thing I didn’t do was listen to it again on another day in a different order. The gap between the least expensive and the other two is so enormous that it enhances the experience you have while listening to the one that comes directly after that. Would be interesting to listen in 1-3-2 order again
Exactly. I wish she gave her own thoughts at the end.
The difference is; how does it hold up against humidity, how skewed is the the material it’s made of? You never mentioned the room it is played in. Thanks for a great video
I honestly thought I wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between them (traumatised by a Tragic Cello Incident as a child), but the difference between the first and second was astonishing- the leap in clarity and crispness was enormous. The difference between the second and third was more subtle to me, but I can still say I heard an additional richness and depth. Thank you so much for this- I really have wondered about this for years.
Did she use the same bow and would that make a difference?
PS What was the tragic incidence?
@@deborahlong4417 I took cello lessons, and pretty much the entire mess was tragic, but when I broke a string, that was the humiliating end of the matter. How, you may ask, does anyone break a string on a cello? Trying to tune it an octave too high. That’s how. It was at that point I gave up in despair.
@@Ysoie that is actually very common for new people trying to tune, especially when you aren’t used to tuning by ear
@@megamadchief8098 That actually makes me feel much better, now, decades later. Though I’m still glad I never told my choir director about such a colossal blunder. He would have given me that disappointed look and I would have imploded on the spot.
I actually CAN hear the difference. However, I enjoyed the 2nd cello the most out of the 3 of them.
The second one did it for me
that was my feeling as well. the 2nd one had a mellow, rich, deep tone to it. the $1m had more of a crisper, richer tone to it which was exquisite in its own right, but the 2nd one was more appealing to me. btw... speaking of exquisite...i’m in awe of you playing that piece three times flawlessly. well done. thanks for the demo. 💙💜💚🙏
Wow. I thought, after listening and going back and forth between them, that maybe my ear wasn't so good, because in the end, I liked the 2nd one best. Then I came down to the comment section and find that pretty much everyone else did as well. If my ear is off, so is everyone else's.
I can kind of hear the difference.
But the only thing that makes the sound the same is that they all sound amazing!
Me too. I can't tell why the 1M one is soo expensive. Maybe there is a story behind it that gives it value.
I usually assume these videos are gimmicky, but I'm not gonna lie: the million-dollar cello sounds .... like a million bucks. It sounds very noticeably better. Incredible resonance and richness of tone. Just beautiful. Lovely, and thank you for playing these so wonderfully for us.
Agree! I'm amateur listener, so I didn't think the difference between the 5k & the 180k was noticeable enough to justify the price difference, but...ditto what ^this guy^ said about the Gagliano. I definitely heard the difference in tone & timbre & I don't even play cello. It was palpably gorgeous. Maybe some ridiculously rich patron will buy it for Wendy & she can play it all the time.
The 2nd cello sounded nicest (very warm, rich, velvety, strong, deep bass, and clear). The 1st cello sounded nice yet cold (not warm) and crisp (not velvety) and more treble than the 1st and 3rd cellos. I'm sure some ears will prefer the 1st if you like a cold crisp sound. The 3rd cello sounded semi-similar to the 2nd cello, yet the 2nd cello sounded warmer and deeper bass, although the 3rd cello seemed to project a little more (i.e., more volume).
@@RP-rw6jj My opinion is that the 1st cello sounded pretty bad especially on the bass string sort of like the horrible buzzing sound when one doesn't fret a guitar correctly. The $180,000 one sounded a lot better to me, but I honestly couldn't tell a difference between the $180,000 and $1 million one. And that's listening with good headphones. Perhaps on a 2nd listen I might be able to, but perhaps it'd take hearing them in person to truly have a chance at telling the difference. Even as great as recorded music is now, there still is something to be said for hearing something in person.
Agree!!
Just a hack metal guitarist, but I'll be dammed. Skipped a head, thinking there'd be brakes. All of a sudden boom. Buzzing gone, tone is clean as hell. Makes me rethink that fancy guitar I've been looking at!
Thank you for this video. I realize it was done 3 years ago, but I just found it. I have an extremely limited music background, but I can definitely hear the difference! The first was tinny sounding. The second had more body and was more balanced. The third picked up every nuance and beautiful richness of every note. I could even see how your body reacted to some of the sounds you were creating- as if you were moved by it’s lushness.
I could hear the difference, but can’t explain what the difference is, the more expensive just sound better. 😂The difference to me between the 5000 and 180,000 was bigger than the difference between the 180,000 and 1,000,000 to me.
flyingmolamola same 😹
I agree completely.
The most expensive one sounds more like multiple stringed instruments rather than just one cello. So yeah, richer must be a great word to describe it.
1 million dollars one sounds muffled and metalic.. Almost non musical.. Rest 2 are fine.. The best one is 5k one...
The 2nd one on the lower notes, had less "rattling" vibration which was harsh. Also the sound was richer. The resonance of the last one was richer, deeper, no rattling, and the low notes sounded perfect.
Honestly, the $180,000 cello had the most responsive and resonate sound of the three, especially on the D and A string, which was most pleasing to my ears. Very rich timbre.
same here, 180k was more pleasant
Agreed, I liked that one best.
I also agree. The 180k cello was night and day better than the 5k cello. The million dollar cello did offer a noticeable improvement but not an 800k improvement. Perhaps in person the difference is more pronounced.
Agree
very true
The first cello sounded a bit scratchy; the tone left we wanting more clarity. The 2nd cello had a cleaner tone and much more resonance. The 3rd cello had the best clarity and was still resonant.
Exactly the first one sounded scratch y
The vibrations of the 3rd is more eargasmic.
I agree about the clarity of the third one I was thinking the sound was sharper but that's kind of what I meant. The first one just sounded flat and dull. Not so sure how I feel about the middle one.
I agree with this. There was a big difference in clarity and depth between cellos #1 and #2, however the difference between cellos #2 and #3 was not as great. If tone is the primary driver of these instruments' value, I'd say that the jump from $180K to $1M is probably not worth it. There would have to be other reasons to justify the $1M price tag. (Being made by a famous builder, being a well preserved and playable historical antique, prestigious history of ownership, etc.)
@@worthdixon1072 Just my opinion but the intonation and right hand technique of the musician is far more important than the two bling instruments. A virtuoso will make a $5K instrument sing.
Oh yes. Million dollar one definitely sounds best. Most balanced sound, not too much bass, not too much treble, good all-around tone. The 180,000 had too much boomy Bass. 10 of those in an orchestra could make a very odd sound... The first, least expensive cello was just too squeaky, too sharp, not well-balanced in tone. For $5,000 you can get a pretty good six string acoustic guitar. I guess that's not the case for a cello... No pun intended. Thanks for the video, it was informative. For those wondering, I was listening on TH-cam with reference speakers. Tube preamp into a class D amp. The differences were very clear, thank you. And you play wonderfully!
The most expensive holds a deeper, richer tone in the lower register. As the value of the instrument increases, the warmth of the notes increase..... Would not have noticed it not being compared. Thank you.... Such a talented musician- of course!
Yes, the lower registers were warmer, richer and fuller. Also, it seems the more subtle strokes, the vibrato had a more expressive, emotive quality which also has much to do with the performer's touch.
I came to same conclusion having somebody play it in blind random trial. The 1M cello seemed louder, compared to 180k cello too loud, in the high frequencies (registers). But when listening on a mediocre to cheap loudspeakers or not paying attention the 5k is just fine. Maybe during concerts, Wendy can quickly switch between the 180k and the 2M cellos depending on which registers dominate.
The step from 5k to 180k is noticable better (when listening with good stereo speakers). But what would a harmonious chorus of 36 5k cellos sound like compared to the one 180k cello?
This expresses my thoughts exactly so no need to repeat it - 😌
@@gemrouf Yes, the most costly cello allowed us to properly hear all the performer’s nuance, her fingering. Quite lovely.
The biggest jump in quality came between the first and second instruments. And your talent made them all come alive.
This
Agreed
Same here. Seems the first instrument's body does not have a good sound itself - and that all tones come mostly from the strings.
For me the 5k cello sounded "muddier", The second one was obviously different. The notes were more defined, crisper. The million dollar cello was similar but it added a richness to the low notes.
That’s what I was thinking 🤔
Agreed, the lower notes were tighter, and possibly a bit louder on the million dollar cello.
Could not have said it better! :-)
Me like mmh makes sense.
Agreed !
Tansi means Hello in my Native Cree Language, from Canada. I happened to come across this youtube channel and was interested in watching. Personally I think you make every cello you played sound spectacular! The one that stood out to me the most was the 180,000 cello, sounds more smooth. Thank you for sharing the differences so much to learn!
Hiy Hiy means Thank you in my language.
The difference between the first cello and the second was profound. The second cello sounded tighter and more vibrant, smooth. It made the first cello sound sloppy somehow. The third cello had the similar quality as the second but also had more echoey deep tones that make it sound hauntingly beautiful somehow.
You should hear how succulent and velvety smooth the dulcet tones my butthole makes after a couple beers and Chinese takeout with a lot o broccoli. Woo baby
@@maggs131 lol
Much brighter and wider
I don't know music....but I agree and thought the million dollar one also had sounds like a wind instrument
I feel the same way. The clarity on the second was beautiful, and the third had a richness of character with each note.
The second cello had a crisp clear sound on each note, the third had a richness of character on every note. Both have incredible sound.
There was a more resonance with the third one as well
@LaBronco I really like the way your reply is worded. Now I can find my words.
The first was a struggle to make it sound good, the second was tonally balanced, the third one had much smoother dynamic changes. Akin to a choir from people randomly pulled off the street, a well rehearsed choir with good singers, a well rehearsed choir of Juilliard graduates under a great conductor.
You guys can't be serious like litterally no difference
I agree with the last guy. If you think there is much a difference you are a haughty snob (who should be slapped). That is my opinion.
@@msarchive6247 I know nothing about cellos or music for that matter. To my uneducated ear the second sounded the best. But what do I know really? The real talent is the in the musician.
Your artistry is worth a million bucks no matter what cello you're playing.
One of thee best comments I’ve seen of TH-cam history
Simp
Simp
Simp
Simp
The last of 1,000,000.00 surely the sound is impeccable and has a natural sustain. The sound flows smoothly. And you play wonderfully well!!!
I can't believe I heard the difference between these instruments. I can only call it, richer, fuller and "rounder" sound.
she got confused in the order, the most expensive was actually played first
Yeah. It almost sounds like a more "chambery" sound with the million dollar chello. It sounds like the sound is coming from a larger, deeper, richer place. Hard to describe, but I can definitely tell the difference. I think chambery is the best way to describe it
I wanted to know ONE thing about cellos, only ONE thing, and now youtube algorithm has decided I should dedicate my life to it.
I wanted to know about violins 🎻 but hey 🤷🏽♀️
It’s a violin cello
I watched ONE thing about Warhammer 40k miniature painting and now 95% of my feed recommendations are based on them.
Never watch anything about boxing....
Like looking up where to buy a new mail box, go buy it, and the next half year google chases you down with mail box offers :-D
Me listening through my $5 earphones.
Hmm yes the sound here is made of sound.
If you spend like $25 you’ll probably get something that’s much much better than what you’re using now and is like 80% of what a $250 pair will get you. Check some wirecutter reviews. Your ears deserve better.
Daniel_H212 Hahaha!!
@@cjeam9199 just enjoy the joke
Daniel_H212 your $5 earphones are probably better than my $300 Sony headphones that are broken in so many ways.
Listen to the other comment about the $25 dollar earphones. I wish I would have instead of buying these expensive stupid headphones
@@ssimms8995 Are you referring to the WH-1000XM3s? I've been planning on getting those
I could definitely hear a difference in each one. The first one compared to the second had a more ‘harsh’ sound; the notes of the second one ‘melted’ together. The last one was even more so. Absolutely all were beautiful with you playing! I would be interested in looking at the height of the strings on each one and even doing a comparison of each as to what the physical differences are. That would be so interesting!
Thank you , Wendy! ❤👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I KNOW RIGHT! I used to be one of those, who cares how much it costs types? Is there truly a difference? And this vid made me take several seats!!! Funny just to think a $3k cello is considered mid. But I mean the bassoon is not exactly a cheapy instrument either lol I agree with your assessment. ;)
I might not be able to pick them out in a blind test, but I thought the $180k cello had the best resonance, and for me that was the most pleasing to listen to.
Honestly, your consistency as a player really makes all 3 cellos shine.
Agreed
The difference between a very expensive instrument and a collosally expensive instrument is usually just rarity and "brand name". if it was made by a famous master who is dead, it's automatically worth a lot more, even if a cello produced last year by someone just as talented is 10% of the price. Are some of these instruments "better"? Sure, probably. It's entirely reasonable to assume that the BEST person to ever make a particular instrument which has been made for hundreds of years may not be living today. Or that materials available hundreds of years ago may no longer exist, like many types of extremely old growth hard woods which were common centuries ago and now incredibly rare.
Same here
the cheapest cello sounds ok enough. the second one is somewhat better...may be more rich. the third one is different, but not significantly better that the second one.
same
Nobody:
TH-cam: You like cellos now.
?!
YES!
lol
Yes
Actually ...
The second one was much smoother than the first one. The third one sounded more soulful....but may be Im affected because I know which is more expensive. A better experiment would be to play all three whithout telling people which is which.
Yes! You should play three of them but only leave which is which in the description box or something haha
YES!
Better yet play them then in a few days do another video telling us what was what. See where the comments go for the correct ones.
The first sounded mushy, with a distracting background buzz.
The second sound smooth and clear and well defined. I could listen all day.
The third sounded smooth and mellow and rich. It’s tone caressed and enveloped me.
I thought the sound in the 180k was a bit better. Wasn't too impressed by the sound for the 1.5M cello. The cheapo well sounded cheap after being spoiled by the two high end.
YOU WERE RIGHT, SHE SHOULD NOT HAVE SAID WHICH IS WHICH.
That was an interesting experience getting to hear you play these three cellos sequentially. The 150k$ actually gave me chill bumps as you began to play it but when you played the E and A strings it began to have a dry timber sound without deep resonance, and it added quite a lot of acoustic echo even though the 5k sounded more balanced and the lows were producing more resonance which helped to make it sound deep, but then it lacked the airy characteristics of the other two. The mil-$ cello didn't give me chill bumps but it was tonally nice with the upper notes sounding crispy when supported by the ajacent lower harmonic. 3/4through the song a note was ever so slightly flat, but didn't sound that way the first two times. Was the body more difficult to support it than the others? Not sure. I love your playing and the life you bring to all of which you play.
$5000 cello: *plays music*
Me: Yeah, sounds nice.
$180,000 cello: *plays music*
Me: Yeah, sounds nice.
$1,000,000 cello: *plays music*
Me: Yeah, sounds nice.
Not a cello player but I liked the $180k sound better. To me, it had a warmer and fuller sound. And then the last two were more responsive than the $5k one on the C string, in my opinion.
crow13b me too
The second cello ($180,000) has a warmer tone that I prefer. All played superbly. Thank you for doing this video.
Me too.
Me too I liked the 180k one best
*Air On The C String*
The lowest and highest notes were harsh sounding on the 1st one. They were much better on 2 and 3. I lived the middle one. It has a more consistent velvety tone from top to bottom.
I agree. Nicer tone altogether. Dare I say that the most expensive one sounded more like the cheapest - perhaps I prefer a less strident tone in my old age (72). :)
were u trying say loved instead of lived
@@harriepark6112
What do YOU think buddy?
@@harriepark6112 yes
Snap 👌🏾💯✨
The $5,000 one was loud and bright, but some of the notes on the high end and low end sounded "hard." There was a big difference between the first cello and the second. The $100,000 cello sounded richer and more mellow. The $1,000,000 cello was not as loud and brash. It was more balanced throughout its range of strings when it came to quality of sound, and it just sounder "sweeter." The playing was beautiful on all 3. Thanks for sharing with us.
Yes indeed, even if the 5k sounds harsh sometimes, the playing is very good and pleasant to listen.
I agree. The sound was lovely. I honestly like the second one. It sounded much smoother and balance but you were able to use the firmness to hit bright tones when needed. I suspect the million dollar cello was older or made from wood that had been allowed to dry cure longer. This too happens to guitars and a performer needs to find a balance of what they wish to do and how mellow their tone can be.
on a oppo ha-2 se paired with fostext50rp i agree with every once what you say minus "sweeter" and would call it deeper/ meaty / heartier what was you listing on ?
Yes the million-dollar cello was flawless and rich sounding ,no pun intended, and I listened on decent speakers. Thank you for this treat!
The intros for each different cello
1:23
3:49
6:13
Enjoy 😊
tyyy
What you have done is brilliant. Thanks.
Genius! Thank you so much!
Thank You
@@yoyo-nf1ww ...Ma !!!???
How can you even hold a 1,000,000 cello without breaking a nervous sweat?! That’s amazing!
Just know that it already has been banged up and repaired countless times. No worries
@@monsiuersmartypants3391 hahaha
Because she's already played on a $6 million dollar cello (@ 1 minute in)
Most cellos of that price have their own insurance plan.
Being a Julliard Alumni probably has a bit to do with it. That's legit cred, mang.
The $180K instrument was my favorite. It had a mellowness about its sound that was just beautiful.
I think its a lot better than the Galiano. The Galiano i feel resonated the low notes too harshly, creating an imbalance with the higher notes
I also liked that one a lot once I slowed the speed down but it sounds the worst while playing at 1.75 speed.
This was my opinion as well.
I agree. I preferred the middle one. Significantly better sound than the cheaper cello. Notes more defined. Yes the most expensive was the best sound and range differences but, not enough to warrant the huge price difference. Only a professional, or talented amateur would be able to notice the difference between the last two if played independently of each other.
The middle one gets my vote
With you playing them, they all sounded beautiful. For my own ear, I could not really hear a huge difference between the middle and the last. But, I will say that the middle sounded the warmest and I really enjoyed it,
Me who knows nothing about the cello: Hrm, the differences are so apparent. *sips cup of noodles with pinky up*
Real talk
I concur. *Cleans monocle with monogrammed handkerchief and puts it back on with a quite unimpressed sniff*
Takes sip of apple juice, I concur.
-British accent-
I too, concur, my good sir! 🧐
@@ottots0093 jolly good show old boy
There’s an apocryphal story about Jascha Heifetz when he met a fan after a concert he did. She said to him “I really love the sound of your violin.”. Heifetz then puts the violin to his ear and says “Really? I don’t hear anything.”. ☺️
I will like to keep it near the top 😊
If you could get the same sound from a $5,000 one then Juilliard would use it.
The first had a brassy undertone. The second was full and buttery. The third sounded like I was in the middle of the sound, so lovely and intense. In the overall quality I hear it most in the deep notes. That’s where I think most will hear it even if they don’t recognize that.
99 likes? Imma make that 100😊
Exactly perfect description of each
Yep, the difference for me is in the resonance. More $$, more resonance. The lower notes show it off.
Yes the lower tones are full and rich in sound.
Suddenly I'm in the mood for Chardonnay
Wow, listening from my iPad the 180 was solid, but the 1M seemed 3 dimensional. Popping on the headphones, listening to various parts of the music…..the clarity and depth of each note from the 1M is amazing. The 180 still sounds good….nice balance…..but the 1m is incredible. Your talent is truly amazing. Thank you for doing these videos. I love your work!
When you can play like that, they all sound like a million dollars.
SIMP
AND Free to hear on TH-cam.
ayyy
@Mikhael Kevin Regalado simp
@@swj8 Simp for simping over another simp comment.
I felt the 180K one had a sweetness across the tones that my ear liked the best-also the overtones reverberate beautifully. The 1 million had great high and low tones-superior to the 180K but I picked up a vibration off the G-string in the mid tones that my ear did not like. The 5K instrument had a lovely sound in your hands, but had a tightness that the other two did not.
Not to mention the harshness on certain notes that was not present in the other two. Of course I don't know squat about them either way but that stood out to me.
Yes, I know nothing about cellos but that one was also my favourite
@@babsdiamond I agree.
I like the 180K one too.... but maybe its certain notes that the $m cello kicks butt in......
I also noticed the 180k one sounded different. But not for the good (in my openion). Some notes sounded harsh. So I liked both the other cellos.
The second one had the nicest resonation and the strings didn't sound as whiny and tinny as the first and 3rd
But the third one has a kind of subtone harmonics which makes the sound kind of whispering and I suppose the expensive one has the best dynamic range
charleen Urban I liked the second one best also!!
I know, right?! I love that one!
Agree that the third cello sounded nasal when compared to the second cello.
Agree. Second is the best
in the third, at the end, tears 😢came to my eyes. complete harmony. smooth flow.
The difference between the 5k and the 180k cellos was most noticeable, especially the lower tones and the overall cleanliness of the sound, but the 1M cello sounds even better. The difference between the 180k and the 1M cellos was not that big, though.
Anyway, what makes the biggest difference is you, Wendy, playing them! You’re really awesome!
the 1m was most noticeably different to me. the clarity richness of the deep tones the way they blended together - i’d never want to play anything else after that.
I would say that the jump from the $5000 to the $180K was much more obvious than the $180K to $1M. It is rather amazing how the harshness in the lower cost cello does not exist as the cost and quality increases. I would love to hear a string quartet do this every same demonstration. Also, I would like to know what that feels like as a musician. I would guess that the way that the body of the cello vibrates just feels better as you play making it a more enjoyable experience.
Edit: I just rewatched just the beginning of each and watched your face and with the first you looked like it felt off. The sound and feel wasn’t right to you. The second was a joy for you to play. Your smile looked real as I am sure it was. The third hit you on a deep emotional level. You had a moment that you looked into the camera and conveyed so much feeling that it actually made me cry.
Your talent is undeniable, but I am amazed at how much your instrument can put that talent on full display.
Visit the VOF !
As a musician you can feel the difference in the quality of the instrument. I am (was) a tubist in HS I was first chair in the Senior Concert Band and I got to play a King "Monster" a 4 valve DB Flat that used to belong to the first chair in the Toronto Symphony. It dated from the 1930s. The sound I was able to get out of it was so dark and rich it echoed in your soul. 35 years later I still long for it.
I guess you could also hear the diffrences better while listening to live play instrad of an recording. But you still could hear a difference.
Kennedy wins..
I wish she didn't reveal the price of them. I would much rather blind test and give my verdict and then she can reveal.
I agree with your point but it's interesting to pick out the superiority of the higher-end model
Yup!
You never know maybe she did trick everyone and just said that this was $5,000 and not the million
totally agree with you, my judgement is compromised since I was told the prices in advanced.
No difference
Absolutely, I can tell the difference especially with the upper and lower registers. The million dollar cello has such a mellow and rich tone!
Love it! ❤
Imagine hearing a 1milion dollars cello with 10 dollars headphones. LOL
LOL!!!
Apple AirPods Max $500 joined the chat
@@d947 currently it’s 629€ in Europe :)
@@d947 that would be a good comparison...$10 vs $500 headphones
That's awesome
All three played beautifully but the 180k cello was my favourite - depth of tone, mellow. Would love to know which one you enjoyed playing the most.
1:25 $5000
3:50 $180,000
6:13 $1,000,000
Thanks for posting the start times. Listening to one version all the way through and then some description and then the next, I cannot compare them. With the start times posted I can hear each cello one right after the other. Thanks.
Really?
@som Slovaak 132369 jars of kimchi. 15 ounce per jar.
Thanks, that helped a bunch! 🙂
See, I don't know if the differences I'm hearing are based more on your performance or the instrument. Yes, the first instrument sounds less consistent throughout the note range to me. The second has a lovely high end, and tonally it doesn't stray as much as the first, and to mh untrained ear, sounds the most consistent.
On the last instrument it sounds like you're getting more octave harmonics on top of your notes, but I don't know enough about bowed instruments to tell if it's due to your attack or the instrument itself.
Overall I prefer the second instrument. The notes seem to be more consistent across the neck, and harmonically cleaner - maybe more direct, with a really pleasant high end.
I'm certain you could play on a bad student model from a music store's rental department and it'd sound as lovely to my ears - you're such a brilliant player ♡
As you progressed from 1 to 3 the sound of each Cello increased in richness especially bass notes. The million dollar Cello had the richest sound on both musical scales. Thank you, well played. 🎉
It would have been interesting to play the 3 cellos without revealing which was which and ask people to guess the best one in the comments...
Yes next time
I read about such a comparison they did several years ago with violins. All involving top violinists, with the same acoustics (same hotel room), same everything. It was a "blindfold" test and I think I remember that a majority of those elite musicians thought the newly made violin model sounded better than the million dollar Strad. Go figure. I guess maybe with today's technology, analysis, and materials we can make some pretty nice instruments even at a budget price. But, considering when those old instruments were made, (1666-1737, or about 325 years ago ?), it's amazing that even with today's tech we can't make anything better. And like in the "Red Violin" movie, the provenance and history of an instrument can't be duplicated. It's part of the charm - hearing an instrument so many greats have played.
Agreed. A blind test would have been more interesting.
@@tfaber9394 www.sciencemag.org/news/2017/05/million-dollar-strads-fall-modern-violins-blind-sound-check
Of course, to double blind the test properly, the player would also have to not know which was which. Which would be tricky to organise...
The first cello's deep notes were too dominant and somewhat rasping. The second one had a more balanced volume throughout - the bass if anything was a little weak compared to the higher notes, but there was no rasping. The final cello was back to being bass dominant, though not to the same degree as the first, and there was no rasping. I preferred the middle one.
yep, agreed!
I completely agree, middle one was best
Glad i wasn’t imagining the issue with the bass on the first. It was almost like fret buzz on a guitar, and at times the high notes.. i want to say saw tooth waves but i don’t think that’s it. The tone was replaced with a shrillness/sharpness.
There's a place for raspy music but this Bach piece is not that place. Use that cello to play some Apocalyptica or something?
The first and third cellos sounded good, but they were a bit muted and bland like she was playing them in a small room which she was. The second (middle) cello sounded as if it was being played in a much grander space because the acoustics were 3-dimensional. Lovely.
Disregarding the different chello prices, her playing was so perfect, wow
I agree, I also play the cello -w-
Anticapitalist X Cello, it’s also in the title.
Hmm there is no doubt that her technique is perfect and I'm 100% sure she is an awesome cellist, but in my personal opinion there could be some more emotion. And I'd also play it a bit slower because this suite is so powerful and playing it a bit slower would make the power more "hearable"?
@Anticapitalist X It's an Italian word so it is pronounced as the Italians do.
Valentin 25 🙄
Yes. Definitely. Difference is crystal clear in depth, clarity and richness of the tone, response of the instrument and overall timbre.
The $5K one was hard and more "brittle" sounding. The middle one was more musical and even-sounding from string to string. Melodic. The $1M one was similar to the middle one, but I still prefer the middle instrument. Of course string type and brands would also make a difference. Are we to presume all had the same strings? Great playing.
Agreed!
I definitely do not claim a musical ear, but I also liked the middle one the best.
Yes, the middle cello was so smooth, warm, almost buttery compared to the other two. The million dollar one was almost too much for me in the lower ranges.
I thought the lowest bass notes on the $5 K one and the $million one were a little noisy compared to the middle one.
I agree, the second sounded "fuller" than the first, but the third and second were similar.
If i had a $1M musical instrument in front of me, i could die of a heart attack from anxiety, without even touching it.
What if you get distracted and drop it? 😁👌 Pricing is ridiculous. The variance is too extreme. A flagship Steinway concert piano is around $250k... Do much more instrument posts and man hours..vs any of the cellos. Even if it's rare. A Strad... Unless it was played by Back himself Heh...
I’d sell it and buy the $180,000 one (so that it didn’t hurt my career) and live off the $820,000. The second and third instrument sounded the same. The first one was close though.
Me too 😂😂
@@AGC828 Bach*
just like a beautiful women im guessing!
The first cello seemed to have "loose" low end, as if the body of the cello wasn't stiff enough to really control the vibration properly. As a cello' strings are tuned by tightening or loosening them, there is no way to just tighten strings to fix this issue, as it would have thrown the lower strings out of tune. Harmonically, multiple strings playing together seemed to not have the harmony they should have. I would surmise by her expert playing later that this was an instrument issue. The second cello was noticeably better. The low end loose vibration was cleaned up and sounded a lot less sloppy. The harmonics when multiple strings were played at the same time were better than the first. The third cello of course was brilliant. Every note sounded like the instrument was doing it's job, and there wasn't any of the vibration or slop noted with earlier instruments. The harmonics were far superior as well... like Ms. Law was getting the cello to sing. Needless to say, she is a fine musician that was able to make use of the range and superior tone of a million dollar cello. I really enjoyed this video...thank you for posting it!
Heh, I just commented on another post on the same thing. I called the low C flatulent, perhaps your analysis is kinder and more cultured. ;-)
I was thinking about how to best explain what I heard, thanks for saving me the trouble og writing it down :)
Lee Hartwig I was thinking similarly, and I see you explained it in words better than I could. 👍
A man of culture I see however it's not just the strings that different in each it comes down to the actually instrument arms it was also a difference of volume when she was playing
Well said!
First of all thank you. I have always wondered what the difference, in sound, is between a regular string instrument and a gold standard instrument. The regular is more tinny, especially at the low string, but sounds wonderful when not beside a more expensive cello. Now I understand the meaning of a “warmer” sound. The expensive cello has more distinct notes and that deep string is right on. I have a poor ear for music (great for languages though), but I completely appreciate your demonstration. Laymen like to know things too.
The million-dollar cello sound much better to me. The low chords were more palatable on the more expensive one. On the less expensive one they seem to grate my nerves a bit. Overall, I have to say; it doesn't matter which one you play you are exceptional!
I agree. That's where I heard a difference was in the lower tones. The higher prices instruments had more melodic lower notes and sounded smoother. I enjoyed them all and thank you
@@cherylcomparato6200 🥰🥰
I noticed it sounding better, right away. It sounded like it played better; more smoothly. I didn’t think I’d notice a difference, but it sounded like a million bucks! 😄
Exactly what I left.
After hearing how grating the bass notes are - I was trying to think of a word for it but yours will do - I was waiting to hear what the 1 mill cello would be like. It's still there lol. Not as smooth as I would have expected. But I know nothing about these instruments.
I also didn't think I had to impatiently wait while she played the whole piece 😂. Honestly, just playing parts of it is enough. Had to skip some.
As a cellist and a large fan of cello sound, I can say that I did not notice a particular difference between 5k and 1M cells in the entire range and 180k in the upper register. I liked the sound of 180k in the lower register most of all, it differs markedly, a more glorious dark -skinned saturated than other tools.
👍
You need to hear it at least in a good hometheatre, not from the crappy phone/lap speakers.
@@v3szpilman1 I listened on good studio monitors and studio headphones.
And so, for good, you need to listen to all this live using the blind listening method, especially since TH-cam cuts frequencies over 16 kHz.
there is a huge difference
as a Cellist, I have to say, that to me, the middle one has a full, warm, melodic sound, especially in the lover register. I love all three in their own way, but to play this Bach Suite, I enjoyed the second Cello. I would love to play it.
For a million dollars instrument i was waiting to see it playing by itself
You can get a Casio Keyboard for like 50 bucks. 🤣
But I get your point.
@@AnthonyKravitz i know good instruments are very expensive i am a musician 👍
@@AnthonyKravitzlol 😂
I was expecting to be made of gold
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA LOOOOOOOL
In her hand all the three sound perfectly, but is undeniable the last one´s superior quality!
I thought the Second Cello had a better natural reverb and overall tone, but it was clear the million dollar Cello brought out an emotion in your playing not present in the other two...and this made it FEEL the best.
Absolutely agree
Indeed!
Agree. I said this out loud. That she obviously likes the sound of the most expensive. I'm sure it has to do with what she hears, the reverb around her that makes a difference too.
Kinda sad there was nobody to applaud when she was done playing so here you go: 👏👏👏
👏👏👏
yeah everybody’s talking about a million dollars 🙂
@Fernando Martinez She was done playing at the end of the video, so digital applause is therefore appropriate. Thank you for the useful information, by the way. I'll keep that in mind for any performances I go to.
Kind of sad she's not wearing gloves and getting her greasy fingers all over a million dollar instrument, also manhandling it before playing like it's some cheap piece of garbage.
truee
I didn’t expect to hear that much of a difference. The first one was beautiful. The second one, immediately with the depth of the bass notes, my eyebrows lifted, and I thought “Oh, wow!“. 😳
Then with the million dollar one I didn’t expect a difference, and yet it was so smooth it was both more soft and more full. And then, at the crescendo just before the end, suddenly tears came to my eyes!😢 I was not expecting that.
Thank you for your post, it was all very beautiful.
I agree with your observations. I was wondering if I didn't know the price for us upfront would I judge it all the same? 🤔
@@alexandramccarthy4648I honestly like the $5000 one better, it had deeper tones that I love the sound of.
@@adamFIVE88 I thought it was a bit scratchy and flatter then the one after. To each ear its own, I suppose?
I agree, the bass notes from the first had an unpleasant buzz that wasn't as pronounced in the others. But I found the difference between #2 and #3 to be much more subtle.
This was a wonderful exercise. Thank you so much!
Definitely an impressive difference between them.
I did not expect to actually hear THAT much difference, but I DID! Number one was over powered in the volume of the lower notes and muddy sounding. Number 2 was a vastly superior tone throughout the range, much tighter and clearer, crisper. But number three had significantly tighter response than either of the first two. The lower registers were more defined, and I expect that the lower tones are the most difficult to produce for any cello. That last one was magnificent! Beautiful playing Miss Wendy!!! Bravo!!!
I could hear better resonance and more open notes with the two more expensive ones. They sound like the soundboards are more tuned and can express the notes more clearly.
I thought so too.
Those were my thoughts also.
The middle was garbage. Tinny highs, and scratchy highs
the one in the middle sounded worse to my ears. the million dollar one definitely sounded better to me, but the cheapest didn't sound bad, just different.
@@knerduno5942 yes I thought that too. Anyone who disagrees is wrong, lol. joking, sure some people would like that.
The greatest difference lies between the $5,000 and the $180,000 cellos. The $1,000,000 cello projects at least as well as the 2nd one. However, it is a fuller sound and even sweeter. Beautiful playing. Best wishes and prayers for your performing and teaching businesses.
I couldn't really notice the difference between the 180k and the 1M but from the 5k it's quite clear
same idea
tbh it's also the fact that this is probably her first time playing the cellos, so she's probably just not able to showcase the differences as well ya kno, because it takes time to learn how an instrument likes to be played, especially the higher end ones.
Erle the Squirrel.........
sweeter is exactly the right word. Enjoyed all three.
Hello! My name is Carlotta, I’m 13 years old and I’m from Italy.I play cello,by many years now, and I must say that I have felt the difference between each one a lot! The sound quality was getting higher and higher and I must say the million dollar cello enchanted me! :)
@Julia Pujals So what if they know? BTW I think she was showing of a bit 🤪😂😂😂
I don't play an instrument but I can hear how much sweeter the third one is.
I am 70 and I do not hear any difference😢
@@cepriuy1559 I too am in my 70's and I too could not hear much difference. Was it my imagination, probably.
To a great degree it also depends on the speakers and amplifier setup you have for your computer. My feeling is that probably most of the subtle differences get lost in "translation" except for the most glaring ones. To me, the third one seemed to have fuller tonal quality and be less "boomy" (softer) than the other two...