Switched my shoulder rest back to the old Wolf rest. Feels more comfortable. Really need new strings!

Comment

Comment by Ann Marie Cordial on February 21, 2013 at 5:39am

Well, it depends on how you have the sponge set up.  I have a sponge that 'sits back' on my viola, because it is attached by the tailpiece peg.  I particularly noticed that my viola "purrs" far stronger with the sponge than with my old Kuhn or BonMusica rest.  That being said, I will also back up anyone who claims that their world is far better with a shoulder rest, or even without one.  Instrument set up is like picking out a pair of shoes.  It's a personal thing that others can suggest, but only you can decide.

Comment by Kevin Keating on February 19, 2013 at 1:49pm

I've never tried a sponge, but I played w/o a rest for a while using a small quilt blanket that covers the instrument in its case thrown over my shoulder. However, I prefer a rest because they hold the outer most edges of the instrument's body allowing the back plate to vibrate w/o any restriction. Anything touching the back, belly or bridge tends to have a muting effect, even if only slight. I also noticed the finish starting to show some dulling.

Comment by Ann Marie Cordial on February 19, 2013 at 7:04am

Kevin - I recently switched my Kuhn rest to a sponge. Even more comfortable!

---Ann Marie