Violin Forum/Message Board

[John Cadd]

There may be some physical detectable difference in Late Strads that makes them better than earlier models .
Some say the arching was higher.Some say the arching was lower .Strad made these as baroque instruments so may not have noticed there was a difference .The steeper necks and higher bridges might have shown up the differences ,whatever they were .Experts class these late violins as superior but why is that ?
I am expecting a denial that they were better now . If so ,were they worse than earlier models ? I think that covers everything .
If experts rate them on the date on the label it will be a sad end to the topic .
This question is only about Strad violins .Not comparing Modern versus Strads . Nothing to do with money either . I don`t want to buy one .

[Fithla]

I'm really here to learn, but I did read about one old violin which maybe was a strad which had had to have the neck changed because generally the tunings changed. So it seems that earlier models were built with different necks because .... I think the strings had lower tension?

[John Cadd]

Yes most Strads had new modern necks fitted . There are a few kept original .
You might like some Strad magazines that have technical tips about making violins. They may help with setting up which can be very difficult .Especially sound post fitting and bridge work .
A book The Art of Violin Making by Courtnall and Johnson is mentioned by Mr Darnton as a good reference .It`s just over £50 and will save you going down rabbit holes. Varnishing can be a rabbit hole all on it`s own . It`s amazing how many small tools can be used for making but my first relacement violin top was made using one Sorby gouge and not much else. My Dad`s plane was useful .Clamps were improvised wooden things using wedges .I never fitted any purfling . That`s a quick short cut . But it worked very well .Chinese parts like ribs and bassbars can be very cheap on Ali Express .It will save you a fortune .They sell clamping sets that are nice quality .Six units that reduce the mass of bits needed . For glue get some Fish glue to simplify the process . Avoid the modern stuff or that fake hide glue in a brown bottle . Fish glue can be ideal for learning and is very close to hot hide glue.Fish glue needs no heating and has a long shelf life . It takes apart with damp cotton wool or tissue paper just like hide glue.You can spend a few days testing how that works and makes you more secure if you want a change .Beares sell fish glue and they are as violin centred as you could find.They have international respect in violin matters .