SELECTING A CODABOW
CodaBows offer performance for players at every level. By design, the Classic is intended for professionals, the Aspire is intended for aspiring students and all the other models are designed for the specific tastes of advanced players.

While the aesthetic differences between CodaBow models are immediately apparent (see the Feature Comparison CHART), the performance differences imbued by each model's differing design and construction specifications are appreciated only through play.

Though bow selection is ultimately a personal process of individual preference and do result in some differing opinions about a given bow, players' reactions to each model of CodaBow have been consistent with our design intentions. Since the introduction of our first bow, we have continuously collected player feedback to ensure that our designs are indeed delivering the performances for which they were intended. We have compiled this feedback for players' benefit in our PERFORMANCE COMPARISON CHART.

Because SOUND and FEEL are overwhelmingly the most important considerations when evaluating a bow, we have organized the chart accordingly. This chart represents comments from hundreds of professionals, teachers, and students regarding the relative performance of each CodaBow model. Though this chart reflects player consensus, it does not guarantee individual player reaction.

Ultimately, bow selection is a personal decision and we encourage players to try any models that interest them. When trying a bow, players naturally gravitate toward bows that feel like their old bow. This natural tendency can initially discount a new bow of better quality. To counter this tendency, we suggest players take two steps. First, devote at least a day to getting acquainted with a trial bow before judging its performance. Also, seek out the opinions and advice of teachers, colleagues, and other experienced musicians who know your playing style and habits; they often can lend a helpful perspective on performance and sound issues.

Generally, SOUND attributes are expressed in terms of richness, fullness, nuance, articulation, power, focus, and color. Considerations for FEEL include a bow's control, consistency, balance, sensitivity, and responsiveness. For most, determining SOUND quality and compatibility with the instrument is of primary consideration. Proven techniques to help players evaluate SOUND include drawing the bow from frog-to-tip in long legato fashion (and detache), noting the performance differences along the length of the bow. Open strings or simple scales work best. Adding vibrato and a wide range of dynamics will help evaluate the degree of FEEL that the player desires. And finally, playing excerpts to include a variety of bow strokes, especially spiccato and martele (scales are fine as well) will help determine which CodaBow model best accommodates a performer's playing style. Ultimately, the CodaBow model that is right for you is the one that makes you happiest.