What is a Silent Cello? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Appeal!

The cello, with its ability to be powerful at times and graceful at others, is known for its broad range of expression and warm sound.
If you’re considering starting the cello but are concerned about its loud volume making it difficult to practice at home, or its large size taking up too much space, then the Silent Cello might be just what you need.
In this guide, I’ll thoroughly explain what a Silent Cello is and why it’s so appealing!

What is a ‘Silent Cello’?

The Silent Cello is a trademarked product by Yamaha. It’s a cello that picks up sound with a pickup (similar to a microphone) and allows you to output sound electrically through headphones or an amplifier, much like an electric guitar. As the name ‘Silent Cello’ suggests, the unamplified sound (referred to as natural sound) is quieter compared to a traditional acoustic cello, making it ideal for quiet practice without disturbing others.
*Please be aware that in some apartment buildings, even electronic instruments may not be allowed.

Benefits of a Silent Cello

◆ Reduced Volume!

The silent cello reduces the perceived volume to about one-tenth of an acoustic cello’s volume (*), allowing you to enjoy playing without worrying about noise.
*According to Yamaha measurements.

◆ Excellent Portability and Storage!

The Silent Cello is lightweight and highly portable. The body, chest rest, and knee rest parts are detachable, allowing for compact storage in a dedicated soft case.

◆ Natural Playing Feel!

Despite its simple design, the neck, fingerboard, strings, and bridge are similar to those of an acoustic cello, ensuring a natural playing experience.

◆ Unique Electric Features!

It boasts electric-specific features such as a reverb function (similar to an echo) with three levels of ambiance, output terminals that can connect to headphones or amplifier speakers, and input terminals that can connect to CD/MD players. These features enable a wide range of practice and performance options, including playing along with backing tracks or other Silent Series instruments.

Drawbacks of a Silent Cello

◆ Less Expressive Compared to Acoustic

The reduction in volume makes it harder to express dynamics and subtle nuances compared to an acoustic cello.

◆ Requires Amplification for Public Performances

The silent cello alone has a low volume, making it unsuitable for public performances without additional equipment like an amplifier or speakers.

Introducing the Silent Cello Series

Yamaha / SVC50 Silent Cello

This is a stylish and basic model with a sleek appearance!
Its simple features make it easy to handle, ideal for Silent Cello beginners and those who primarily use it for practice or lessons.

Yamaha / SVC210 Silent Cello

This model retains its compact size but is packed with features for stage performers! It includes a line out terminal for stereo audio output, allowing it to connect to external amplifiers and ensemble with other Silent Series instruments. Playing with friends can make personal practice much more enjoyable!

Yamaha / SVC110S Silent Cello Set

This is a classical model that retains the design of an acoustic cello! In addition to the features of the SVC210, it includes a rounded frame for a more traditional cello appearance.

A video featuring the world-renowned cello duo 2CELLOS discussing and playing the SVC110S is available on Yamaha’s official YouTube channel! The stylish design of the Silent Cello looks fantastic on stage. Be sure to check out their performance and the stunning stage presence of the Silent Cello under the stage lights!

■ 2CELLOS Interview: “About the Yamaha Silent Cello™ SVC110S”

Extra

Yamaha / BST1 SLB100, 200, 300 Stand

This is a dedicated stand for the Silent Cello. It is adjustable to match the neck position and has a soft sponge material to gently support and securely hold the instrument. It’s very convenient to have it next to you during practice!

Have I conveyed the charm of the Silent Cello? For those struggling with practice locations or those intrigued by the Silent Cello, each of the three models has its unique appeal. Please consider your budget and take your time to decide!