What instrument size is this chinrest designed for?

The Conrad Goetz Old Flesch chinrest is designed to fit standard 4/4 size violins.

What is the primary material used for the frame?

The frame is crafted from carefully selected boxwood, known for its smooth texture and traditional appearance.

What type of mounting screws are included?

This model includes Goetz closed-style titanium screws for secure attachment and weight reduction.

How does this chinrest protect the violin's varnish?

The feet of the chinrest feature padded cork ends, which provide a soft contact surface to prevent scratches.

What is the benefit of using titanium screws?

Titanium is extremely strong yet lightweight, and it is often preferred by players with metal allergies compared to standard nickel-plated hardware.

Does this chinrest affect the violin's tone?

It is designed with minimal instrument contact in mind to help retain the violin's natural resonance and tone.

What is the difference between Old Flesch and Kaufmann styles?

The Old Flesch style is a central-mount chinrest, whereas the Kaufmann style, also offered by Goetz, features a different ergonomic shape and mounting position.

Is the boxwood finished or raw?

The boxwood is precisely finished to ensure a smooth and comfortable feel for the musician's jaw.

How is the chinrest tightened to the instrument?

The titanium screws can be adjusted and tightened to the player's exact requirements to ensure a stable fit.

What is the typical price for this model?

This specific chinrest model typically retails for approximately £67.00.

Where is the chinrest positioned on the violin?

The Old Flesch style is typically mounted centrally over the tailpiece of the violin.

Can this be used on a viola?

This specific model is sized for a 4/4 violin. Conrad Goetz manufactures separate models, such as the Kaufmann style boxwood chinrest, specifically for violas.

Gear article

Conrad Goetz Goetz Old Flesch Style Violin Chinrest (Boxwood/Titanium)

The Conrad Goetz Old Flesch Style Violin Chinrest is a premium accessory designed for 4/4 size instruments, featuring a traditional boxwood frame and lightweight titanium hardware. It is specifically engineered to provide a central mounting position with minimal instrument contact to preserve the violin's natural resonance.

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Overview

The Conrad Goetz Old Flesch style chinrest represents a high-specification solution for violinists seeking a central-mount accessory. Crafted from carefully selected boxwood, the component offers a smooth, comfortable surface that aligns with traditional aesthetic standards for orchestral and solo instruments. Its design focuses on ergonomic support while maintaining the structural and acoustic integrity of the violin.

Design and Materials

The use of boxwood provides a distinct visual and tactile experience compared to ebony or rosewood alternatives. The material is precisely finished to ensure a smooth interface with the player's jaw.

One of the defining technical features is the inclusion of Goetz closed-style titanium screws. Titanium is selected for its high strength-to-weight ratio and hypoallergenic properties. These screws allow for precise tightening to the user's specific requirements, ensuring the chinrest remains securely attached during performance. To protect the instrument's varnish, the feet are fitted with padded cork ends, providing a soft buffer that prevents scratching.

Acoustic Impact

Conrad Goetz has engineered this model with a focus on 'minimal instrument contact.' By reducing the surface area where the chinrest touches the violin's top plate, the accessory aims to retain the instrument's natural tone and vibration. This is particularly important for high-end violins where heavy or poorly designed chinrests can dampen the soundboard.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Conrad Goetz range, the Old Flesch style serves a different ergonomic need compared to the Kaufmann or Stuber styles. While the Stuber model is also available in boxwood with titanium screws, the Old Flesch design is preferred by those who require a central sitting position over the tailpiece. Compared to entry-level plastic or generic wood chinrests, the use of titanium hardware in this model offers superior weight savings and durability.

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Frequently asked questions

What instrument size is this chinrest designed for?: The Conrad Goetz Old Flesch chinrest is designed to fit standard 4/4 size violins.
What is the primary material used for the frame?: The frame is crafted from carefully selected boxwood, known for its smooth texture and traditional appearance.
What type of mounting screws are included?: This model includes Goetz closed-style titanium screws for secure attachment and weight reduction.
How does this chinrest protect the violin's varnish?: The feet of the chinrest feature padded cork ends, which provide a soft contact surface to prevent scratches.
What is the benefit of using titanium screws?: Titanium is extremely strong yet lightweight, and it is often preferred by players with metal allergies compared to standard nickel-plated hardware.
Does this chinrest affect the violin's tone?: It is designed with minimal instrument contact in mind to help retain the violin's natural resonance and tone.
What is the difference between Old Flesch and Kaufmann styles?: The Old Flesch style is a central-mount chinrest, whereas the Kaufmann style, also offered by Goetz, features a different ergonomic shape and mounting position.
Is the boxwood finished or raw?: The boxwood is precisely finished to ensure a smooth and comfortable feel for the musician's jaw.
How is the chinrest tightened to the instrument?: The titanium screws can be adjusted and tightened to the player's exact requirements to ensure a stable fit.
What is the typical price for this model?: This specific chinrest model typically retails for approximately £67.00.
Where is the chinrest positioned on the violin?: The Old Flesch style is typically mounted centrally over the tailpiece of the violin.
Can this be used on a viola?: This specific model is sized for a 4/4 violin. Conrad Goetz manufactures separate models, such as the Kaufmann style boxwood chinrest, specifically for violas.