7 Best Violin Rosins in 2021 – Reviews & Analysis

 

Top Rosin for Violin – Guide & Comparison

 

If you’re a violin player and you need the best violin rosin to maintain your bow in excellent shape, you might want to keep on reading the following lines. After carefully looking at several aspects such as user feedback and sales figures, we’ve determined that one great choice of violin rosin is the D’Addario Kaplan. This dark rosin is specially formulated using the original Kaplan recipe. This means that the product offers less dust and helps maintain the musical instrument cleaner. Moreover, the rosin comes in an attractive case, designed to be used with just one hand. Due to a dial located at the bottom of the case, you can quickly turn the rosin, without creating a groove. If the D’Addario Kaplan is somehow out of stock, you might want to take a look at the Pirastro Goldflex.

 

 

Comparison Table

 

 

 

7 Best Violin Rosins (Reviews) in 2021

 

 

Finding good violin rosin is essential for any instrument owner. To give you some valuable hints, we’ve looked at different products that have gathered numerous positive reviews, and have compiled them into a short list that you can check below.

 

 

1. D’Addario Kaplan Premium Rosin with Case – Dark

 

Any musical instrument that needs a bow requires special maintenance. Primarily if you practice hard and you want to get the best out of your violin, you must take into account the rosin part. Without a reliable product, your bow will start putting too much pressure on the strings, causing a lousy tonality.

This premium rosin is specially formulated using an authentic Kaplan recipe. Furthermore, the ingredients used in the manufacturing process are responsible for producing less dust and helping the music tool get cleaner and brighter.

You won’t be disappointed with this product choice because it is packed in a gorgeous case that has a unique design that allows you to use with one hand only.

Besides, the interesting construction features a dial placed at the bottom of the rosin case that enables the item to be turned to avoid creating a groove.

 

Pros

Having this product reduces the pressure applied to the strings by the bow so the lousy tonality is not a concern during musical performances anymore.

The dust is reduced thanks to the Kaplan recipe used in manufacturing this rosin and therefore you can enjoy a cleaner tool.

This rosin comes with a beautiful case that helps you use the tool with only one hand.

The formation of a groove is avoided due to a dial that is placed at the bottom of the tool’s case which allows the rosin to be turned.

It has a nice design that looks very stylish and classy which is another plus for any musician.

 

Cons

Measuring 8.6 inches in length and 13.7 inches in width, this model may seem to be quite small.

It is a little bit awkward to use it when in a rush as you have to hold the case when applying the rosin to your bow.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($8.49)

 

 

 

2. Pirastro Goldflex Rosin For Violin – Viola – Cello

 

Any musician will tell you that you can’t expect for a violin to sounds excellent without investing in products that that keep your musical instrument in outstanding shape.

This sticky substance called rosin is, in fact, the most significant help you could get to create a beautiful and even tone for your violin. Without rosin, you’d end up thinking that you lack musical knowledge and you’re not able to deliver the notes when the only reason is the lack of this interesting lump of tree sap that should be present in any violin case.

Especially if you’ve recently purchased a new violin, you need to get a product such as this before starting to play the instrument. This item is suitable for different tools such as violins, cellos, and violas.

The best part is that this rosin features gold flecks inside that come in handy for creating an extra smooth grip. Plus, it provides a warm and bright tone which is perfect for any instrument with strings.

 

Pros

This rosin can be used with the same efficiency for viola, violin, or cello, making it a versatile product.

The rosin provides a smooth grip as it comes with tiny gold flecks inside.

Using this product will help you deliver a bright and warm tone, no matter the type of strings you own.

This rosin is a great choice for any musician as it meets all the necessary conditions for professional use.

For extra protection, the rosin comes with a satin cloth so you can preserve its quality for a longer time.

The tiny gold flecks also give the rosin an appealing aspect so you can enjoy the product from any point of view.

 

Cons

The product doesn’t come with any instruction so if you are a beginner, you will need to ask for some information.

You run the small risk of being allergic to the substances used for this rosin so keep that in mind when buying it for your children.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($15.61)

 

 

 

3. The Original Hill Dark Rosin For Violin – Viola – Cello

 

Using rosin for your violin is an excellent way to increase the durability of your musical instrument. Just like a car needs fuel to run, a violin requires professional rosin that takes care of the bow, strings, and overall sound produced by the violin. This means that the rosin you opt for must be made from quality materials, such as this piece right here.

Considered by many musicians in the field as the ultimate rosin, this item has been highly praised by professionals worldwide because it is not an imitation, but it contains pure rosin extracted from pine trees.

Also, this rosin is wrapped in its padded velveteen shell. Aside from this aspect, the product can be used for violins, violas, and cellos.

One notable feature is that this brand of rosin is a tad softer than amber and grips a bit harder.

 

Pros

Using this model is a great way of preserving the quality of your instrument, also increasing its durability.

This item contains pure rosin that is extracted from pine trees which means it is not an imitation.

It is preferred by many professional musicians worldwide as it meets all the expectations of a high-quality product.

To preserve its properties and extend its lifespan, the rosin comes in a padded velveteen shell.

It is a versatile product that is suitable for cellos, violas, and violins.

This product is very popular among advanced students and teachers too.

It comes in a beautiful dark color which makes the rosin very attractive.

 

Cons

If kept in harsh conditions, the pouch may melt into the rosin so be careful to store it at a normal temperature.

This rosin grips a little bit harder than you would expect even though it is softer than amber.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($12.85)

 

 

 

4. The Original Bernardel Rosin For Violin 

 

If you are looking for top-notch rosin for your violin bow, you should look no farther than The Original Bernardel Rosin For Violin, a type of rosin made in France that has been a preferred choice for violinists everywhere for a long time. This product is medium-light rosin, so it is a good choice if you want to produce sharper tones.

You will be happy to learn that this rosin is a good choice if you play the viola or the cello, as well. Take a look at its beautiful light color, and you will know what type of sounds you will be able to produce while playing. Your bow won’t become as sticky as when you use darker rosin, and that will translate in bright tones.

Delivered in the shape of a round cake, it comes in a beautiful pouch. The cake is well protected and you will be able to use it daily if you so prefer.

 

Pros

One thing you will surely love about this rosin is that it is a good choice for violin, viola, and cello bows, without exception.

It is made in France and abides by the highest standards of quality, which is why it is preferred to this day by violinists everywhere.

A handy pouch is provided with your purchase, and you will be able to take your rosin with you everywhere so that you can keep your bow in top condition.

Smooth playing is easily achieved when your bow is treated with this rosin, and you will love the bright sounds you can produce when playing your violin.

Advanced and pro violinists are fans of this rosin, which explains his popularity.

 

Cons

The rosin doesn’t appear to stick to the bow as well as the first time after you’ve been using it for a while.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($11.29)

 

 

 

5. Andrea Rosin Solo Violin Rosin 1/2 Cake

 

You can’t imagine the importance of using rosin. Indeed, talent and practice are crucial but an instrument that is not handled correctly won’t offer the same level of quality during a performance. This is why, if you want to avoid specific issues, such as lousy grip or terrible sounds, you need to consider a reliable solution, like violin rosin.

This piece boasts a unique formula that turns this product into a genuine goldmine for all instruments with bows and strings. Not only does it offer an exciting and compelling sound projection, but it does this great job without compromising the sensitivity of the soloist.

Besides, it doesn’t cause the bow to make cracks on the strings when using high pressure.

It gives the musician the power he or she needs and the expression to play the violin in such a manner that he or she will immediately feel the difference in sound.

 

Pros

This model meets the important features of quality rosins as it prevents your instrument to deliver terrible sounds and the lousy grip is avoided.

The great thing about this rosin is that it manages to offer an exciting sound projection and yet it doesn’t compromise on sensitivity.

When applying high pressure on the strings with the bow, there won’t be any cracks on them due to the quality of the rosin.

You will notice a big difference in the sound quality after using this rosin on your stringed instrument.

Another great thing about this rosin is its efficiency as it has a sufficient quantity of product to last a long period of time.

 

Cons

You have to be careful with the amount of product used because if you apply too much, the sound may be altered.

If you don’t clean the strings before using this rosin, they may feel sticky and gummy.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($19.74)

 

 

 

6. Super Sensitive Dark Violin Rosin

 

Applying rosin on a regular basis is right for your violin because it helps the bow gets the string out of its resting position which then results in vibrations in the entire body of the instrument. From there on, the sound radiates merely in the air.

The entire purpose of using violin rosin is to strengthen the friction between the string and the bow. Without the friction, the bow would move like a skater on the ice. It’s not a pleasant noise to hear.

Not only does this item work great, but also looks terrific. The resin is encased in a sturdy finished wood block that creates a natural and raw feeling.

You won’t have problems trying to open the box if you’re in a hurry and your violin needs rosin. The slide box can be opened without putting too much effort. The color of this rosin is dark.

 

Pros

Using this rosin is great way to strengthen the friction between the bow and the strings, providing a more accurate sound.

Besides the efficiency, this product is also good-looking, having a compact design to carry it with you.

For added protection, the rosin comes in a woodblock that is very sturdy and yet it creates a natural look.

This rosin is made to be maneuvered very easy even when you want to use it as quick as possible since the box opens through a sliding mechanism.

The rosin has a beautiful dark color and a high-quality formula, making it suitable for professional musicians as well as for students.

 

Cons

This rosin leaves some colored residues on the strings and therefore on your hands, so be careful to keep it away from your clothes.

The sound is a bit squeaky when using this product compared to others.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($8.69)

 

 

 

7. D’Addario Natural Rosin – Dark

 

If you’re looking for violin rosin that is made from top-notch ingredients, you might want to take into account this product suggestion.

We all know that a violin without rosin sounds like someone trying to scratch a wall. You can’t smoothly move the bow because you need to apply too much pressure.

However, this dark rosin is what your instrument needs because it is manufactured only from natural ingredients.

On top of this, it comes in handy if you need a soft product suitable for string instruments used in cooler and drier areas.

This item is designed and made in a New York facility, and it abides by all the quality standards in the industry. So, you won’t regret the choice you made because this violin rosin can be applied to both horsehair and synthetic hair bows.

The rosin comes in a plastic container that ensures a clean and effortless application.

 

Pros

The special thing about this rosin is the fact that it is made only from natural ingredients which lower the possibility of allergies.

You don’t have to worry about the bow you are using, as it works with both synthetic hair and horsehair bows.

For an effortless use of the product, the rosin comes in a plastic case that also provides durability.

The easy-grip is provided by a plastic channel to improve the maneuverability of this item.

It is great for students as it comes in a compact design that allows them to carry it in their pockets.

The container has an elegant design to give you a more professional vibe when using it to improve your instrument sound quality.

 

Cons

This product comes in a small form, and it won’t last for a very long time.

The formula is quite dry and it may crumble if you apply too much pressure.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($3.99)

 

 

 

Yearly Guide & Report

 

From the very first moment you buy a violin, you need to consider purchasing a quality violin rosin. Otherwise, you won’t be able to play the instrument.

Given that there are so many alternatives on the market, it’s understandable that you’re having a hard time trying to decide on violin rosin for sale. Nevertheless, we’ve compiled the data we’ve received and managed to come up with a useful buying guide that is showcased in the paragraphs that follow.

Soft vs. Hard

According to the most critical violin rosin reviews, these products come in many colors starting from light and ending with dark shades. In case you didn’t know, violin rosin is that hardened tree sap that musicians apply on their violin bow before any music practice or concert performance. By doing this, they benefit from the ideal grip they need in order to draw the bow across the violin strings of their instrument.

Otherwise, the bow slides across the string and doesn’t grab it, thus producing a less powerful sound.

There’s really no difference concerning the quality between rosins. Light rosins provide a smoother sound and dark ones a stronger one.

Softer rosins or stickier ones tend to grab the strings better. Plus, they are more practical for electric violins because they produce a grittier tone. This is why you’ll notice soft rosins applied on kids’ violins.

On the other hand, harder rosins glide more naturally over the violin bow, enabling a polished and brighter sound.

 

Types of rosins

Generally speaking, if you read various reviews of violin rosin, you’ll see many mentions regarding the time of the year when the rosin was harvested. Dark colored rosins are a tad softer than lighter pieces.

When you are in the market for the best rosin for violin, pay attention to the colors because these are dictated by the time of the year when the substance was collected. If the violin resin were tapped in the winter or early spring, the color would be amber gold and the substance is a little hard. Rosins obtained during the summer and fall seasons have a darker color and a softer consistency.

However, the color is not a reliable indicator because it can be influenced by certain additives, like abrasives, metals, or beeswax. So, pay attention to the product description and purchase items only from trustworthy sources. Even if you’re on a limited budget and you’re in search of cheap violin rosin, you still need quality if you want your instrument to work.

Other features

When it comes to the age, high-class, natural rosins are made from old and traditional recipes and are extracted from real trees. These do a better job because the ingredients are natural. The only drawback is that pure rosins dry up quickly and become brittle over time.

Musicians have to replace rosins once or twice a year because they don’t last long. On the contrary, rosins that derive from chemical ingredients are durable. However, it’s best to avoid chemical products when it comes to your violin because wood is susceptible to these type of elements.

Rosin must be applied in more than one stroke, typically somewhere between 3 and 5. Before each violin session, apply some rosin, especially if you see that the bow is not touching the violin string in an efficient manner.

If you see clouds of rosin on the fiddle after you perform, you might want to reduce the quantity of rosin. Rosins must be kept in violin cases or their own at all times, so make sure you’ve got a piece with you.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

Q: What is a violin rosin?

Rosin is derived from resin, and it’s a solid form of it. In nature, the resin is obtained from pines or other kinds of conifer trees. Rosin is produced by heating fresh resin until the volatile components are eliminated. Varying in color from yellow to black depending on the type of resin used, rosin is semi-transparent.
Players that use stringed instruments that are played with bows need to use rosin to create friction between the bow and the strings. Cellists, violinists and all the other players need to use it to allow the bow to grip and produce sound.
You have to apply rosin to the instrument before you start playing or practicing. Rosin comes in different forms and it can usually be found as a powder, blocks, cakes, or as solid rosin. There are different ways to fabricate rosin, but the process implies the same idea of turning the viscous liquid into something hard.

Q: How do you use violin rosin?

Using rosin depends on the type of rosin you have – the application varies. Nevertheless, when applying rosin you have to make sure the bow is covered with a coat that is even. Applying too much of it will result in rosin dust on the instrument while applying too little will mean the bow won’t have enough grip.
When you want to apply the rosin, tighten the bow and hold the rosin with your left hand. Stroke the bow against the rosin and not the other way around for five to ten times. Remember that it’s harder to get rid of excess rosin than it is to add more. So when you’re at the start of your musical career and you’re unsure, it’s better if you put too little of it.
The rule of thumb is to rosin the bow every three to five hours of play.

 

Q: Do you need rosin for an electric violin?

Electric violins use the same strings under the same tension as normal violins. The bows are most often the same too, and that means the use of rosin is also the same. Of course, there are different types of rosin and some are considered better than others, depending on what you want to get out of them.
Boxed rosin is generally the cheaper option, compared to cake rosin, and it comes in many colors. Its advantage is that it’s universal, and that means you can use it for violins, electric violins, but other instruments too. It is also the better alternative for students that use non-horsehair bows. Boxed rosin sticks better to these bows.
This kind of rosin is also more durable and it lasts longer than cake rosin. On the flip side, cake rosin is of better quality and purer. If you don’t want to stress the strings of an electric violin you can choose this rosin.

 

Q: Is violin rosin toxic?

Rosin used for violins is not toxic, however, it often appears to be causing allergic reactions. Beginners especially are prone to allergies caused by rosin because of the microscopic dust that the rosin produces. This dust gets into one’s nose, mouth, or eyes and it irritates those areas. This doesn’t happen to everyone, as some people aren’t affected by rosin in this way.
There are some ways to avoid this. First of all, if you feel you’re allergic, switch to rosin made from all-natural ingredients. This will limit the impurities and chemicals that get in contact with soft parts of your skin. There are certain types of rosin that produce more dust, like the powder rosin.
If switching to natural rosin doesn’t do the trick, you might need to get your instrument cleaned by a professional. Take your violin to a repair shop or to a professional cleaning agency to remove the excess rosin on it.

 

Q: How often should I use rosin?

There are different opinions when it comes to how often you should rosin your instrument, but the general rule is that you do it for every three to five hours of play. However, it still depends on how intense you usually play the instrument, how much you play it in a day, and what type of rosin you use.
Of course, the more you play it, the more you need to rosin it. Some types of rosin will wear off faster than other ones, so you need to pay attention to that. It takes a bit of experience to feel when the rosin is running low on your bow. Nevertheless, you would usually be able to feel the hair grip a lot less on the strings, to the point of sliding or making no sound.
Don’t forget to rosin your violin every time you’re playing it. The rosin you used yesterday may have worn off.

 

 

Unavailable products

 

Holstein Premium Violin, Viola, Cello Rosin

 

The one mistake that all violin students tend to make is that they either forget to apply rosin on a regular basis or apply too much. Neither way is great because an inappropriate quantity could damage your violin or make it sound less bright. So, you could save up time and get rid of the hassle by purchasing a product that is easy to handle.

This premium red rosin is suitable for other types of string instruments, besides violins, such as violas and cellos. Plus, it is low-dust, and it doesn’t damage your instrument, which is something you might want to know if your violin is constructed with beautiful varnishes.

Once applied, this rosin does a great job and converts your instrument into a responsive tool because it gives the violin a high level of balance regarding grip, as well as a smooth release.

You’ll be thankful to know that the product comes with a built-in magnetic clasp that comes in handy for secure holding.

 

Pros

If you are looking for a rosin that is very easy to handle, this model may satisfy your needs as it comes with a built-in magnetic clasp for a secure holding.

Besides violins, cellos, and violas, this rosin is suitable for any instruments with strings.

Its structure doesn’t damage your instrument and it is low-dust in order to provide you a cleaner use of the tool.

This rosin gives your instrument a smooth release and a balanced grip that makes your violin more responsive overall.

It comes with a large case for extra protection which makes the entire product more durable.

You can use it with one hand due to the large base that is very comfortable and handy.

 

Cons

Depending on how much it is used or for how long, the rosin may come apart from the base.

When the product is almost over, there is the possibility for it to crumble.

 

 

Bibliography:

1) What is the purpose of applying rosin to a violin bow?

2) What is rosin for string instruments?

3) You should know this about Rosin

4) Rosin instructions

5) How often should I rosin my bow?