As a musician, you understand your instrument and its accessories are an investment. Just like you carefully chose your cello, your bow deserves the same thought and attention. But how much should you actually spend on a cello bow? What’s a reasonable price? And is more expensive always better? We break down cello bow costs to help you find the right match for your level, style, and budget. 

How Much Does a Cello Bow Cost?

Cello bow costs can range widely depending on several factors. On the low end, you may find beginner/student cello bows for as little as $50. When you get into master-level cello bows, you may see prices in the few hundreds to thousands of dollars. 

Investing in a bow that fits your skill level and playing style is important, but you also want to be mindful of your budget. You don’t need to drop ten grand to enjoy an amazing performance. Once you find a bow that fits your price range, always try it at home to ensure it meets your playing needs. 

What Goes Into a Cello Bow’s Price

Similar to violin bow costs, cello bow prices don’t come out of thin air. Multiple factors influence the cost of a bow, including materials, brand recognition, craftsmanship, performance level, and bow characteristics. We’ll take a closer look at how each factor plays into cost. 

Material

Bow material is one of the biggest price determinants. Different materials can cost more to source/manufacturer, increasing the price for the bow. 

  • Pernambuco Wood: Bows have traditionally been crafted with pernambuco wood. However, pernambuco wood has become endangered. The wood’s rarity and conservation status mean pernambuco bows are frequently the more expensive option. 
  • Carbon Fiber: Despite being newer to the market, carbon fiber is often a superior bow material. Carbon fiber bows like the ones found at CodaBow are durable, consistent, and usually more affordable than pernambuco wood. These bows are popular among musicians of all walks of life who need a reliable and less climate-sensitive bow. You don’t need to worry about humidity and temperature with a carbon fiber cello bow as you do with a wood one. 
  • Brazilwood: Brazilwood encompasses a variety of hardwoods primarily sourced from Brazil. Bows made with this material often come with a lower price tag and are usually meant for beginners or students.

Frog Material

In addition to carbon fiber vs. wood bows, other materials in your bow can affect its price. A bow with a plastic frog, windings, and fittings is usually cheaper than one with an ebony frog and metal pieces. CodaBow’s cello bows feature a Xebony® frog made of resin and synthetic fibers, offering a durable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional ebony.

high quality carbon fiber bows

Bow Hair

Bow hair type and quantity will also influence the price. Horsehair is more expensive than synthetic hair, but the price can be well worth the durability and performance. At CodaBow, our cello bows feature three different grades of Mongolian horsehair. 

Brand Recognition

Reputation means a lot in the instrument world. Established brands or bows made by renowned bow makers can be more expensive since they’ve built trust within the cello community. The maker’s reputation can add significantly to the value of a bow.

Craftsmanship

Similar to the brand, the skill and experience of the bow maker can make a cello bow more expensive. Handcrafted bows made by well-known luthiers or from esteemed workshops have higher prices because of their quality, attention to detail, and unique characteristics. If you have unique playability or sound needs, craftsmanship may be more of a priority, but for most players, the higher price may not be worth it. 

Performance Level

Factors like material and brand will create a general price range, but you will spend a different amount within that range depending on your skill level. A student bow will be cheaper than an intermediate bow, which will be more affordable than a professional bow. 

Bow Characteristics

In line with performance level, a bow’s characteristics will determine the price. A bow’s price changes based on how well it enhances the sound and playability of a cello. Features like balance, weight, stiffness, and action affect a bow’s performance — and its price.

Find a Cello Bow That Meets Your Budget and Needs at CodaBow

In the market for a new cello bow? Look no further than CodaBow. We carry a great selection of cello bows across different price ranges and playing levels. Find your perfect match today and try it at home for just $35.