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Scott Cao Instruments

Instruments: I may want to get a Scott Cao instrument made personally by him. Anyone have any experience with his instruments? I mean those made personally by Scott Cao himself.

From Chengxuan Boo
Posted September 11, 2007 at 05:31 AM

I may want to get a Scott Cao instrument made personally by him. Anyone have any experience with his instruments? I mean those made personally by Scott Cao himself.

From Larry Rhodes
Posted on September 11, 2007 at 02:38 PM
Actually, my violin instructor uses one. It sounds really good, and it's quite beautiful to look at, too. It's also almost freakishly light...considerably moreso than my violin...but it's well constructed. It's by no means a shoddy instrument. I'd get one myself if I had that kind of money at the moment. But, perhaps one day... :)
From Scott 68
Posted on September 11, 2007 at 11:56 PM
why not tour the factory?
From Clare Chu
Posted on September 12, 2007 at 03:04 AM
Scott's workshop is in Campbell California. He always has a few of his instruments around, as well as a few made by the permanent apprentices he has (whose instruments are pretty good on their own). Contact Scott by e-mail for more information.

As for trying the instruments. I think they're pretty good. But as with all new instruments they are each different. Among the models that I prefer is the Heifetz (David) Guarneri. There was one made by a worker (called Signature Series) that was pretty excellent but had already been spoken for.

From Sung-Duk Song
Posted on September 12, 2007 at 11:46 AM
Here are my observations, experiences and comments about Scott Cao STV-750 & 850:
They are "relatively" good value for your money. My cousin has had a Scott Cao STV-750 since year 1999. At first, they sounded great. Then the sound got better over the next years. Now, the sound is deterioriating. (Keep in mind -- routine maintenance, new strings, etc have been properly done).

Also, the varnish is starting to "crack". When Scott Cao's shop was approached regarding this issue, the store manager would not allow my cousin to talk to Scott Cao directly. Nor would Mr. Cao return calls. The manager just blamed my cousin for possibly "dropping" the violin which is not true at all.

Next, the quality of the STV 750 and 850's vary depending on the actual assistant that made the instrument. At the time, Scott Cao had a maker named Key Kim, who was absolutely the best. Most of his violins were consistent in quality. But the others were hit or miss.

In addition, I personally visited Scott Cao's shop back in year 2001 in San Jose. I had the opportunity to try his STV-750, 850, and others including his "master" instruments. Frankly, I felt that the quality was very similar. So I think STV-750 is the best "bang for your buck".

Finally, if you need to fly to another country to obtain a Scott Cao, I personally dont' think it's worth it and I think you will be disappointed that you've spent more money on airline tickets and travel for the quality you will get.

Disclaimer: With respect to Mr. Cao, I am not putting down his instruments. They are great value for the money. But you do get what you pay for. I personally think the Snow or Angel violins from China are better. [EDIT]

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