VLM Diamond and Wolf Forte Secundo comparison

Edited: February 23, 2021, 12:48 PM · As I've mentioned here elsewhere, I've significant shoulder/neck (fused)/elbow/hand problems from arthritis and prior injuries. This surely isn't uncommon for returnees in my age group. The Wave 1 (tall) is my perfect CR. I've used the VLM Diamond for almost a year - for various reasons I decided try the Wolf Forte Secondo.

The difference in how the Wolf Forte Secondo feels when I play is improved from the VLM Diamond, and bears no comparison with the Kun and Everest that came before the VLM.

What is that difference do you ask? All tension is gone from my jaw, neck and shoulder, everything feels much more free. My instrument feels totally supported (bass side screw is almost as low as possible & treble side screw is almost as high as it can go). Indeed, even my left hand feels no need to grip the neck at all - like it doesn't even need to touch anything but the strings (some exaggeration but not much).

Looking at the differences between my Wolf and Diamond I can't see why they should feel so very different, but am thankful to have made this experiment. I didn't dream when I replaced my instrument that my increasing tension/pain issues could be related, in part, to a need to reexamine my SR of choice. Good lesson!

Replies (3)

Ella Yu

February 23, 2021, 12:48 PM · Glad the Wolf is working for you :) it's always a process of discovery.

Andrew Victor

February 23, 2021, 12:53 PM · My experience has been that mere millimeter differences between shoulder rests (and even less difference between chinrests) can be critical to one's playing comfort.

I found the Wolf Secondo chinrest perfect to my needs for about 40 years (I did not need the extra height adjustment of the "forte"). It was only after that that my needs changed and it took me close to 10 years to find a completely satisfactory new shoulder rest (although I could probably get along without one - but I now use a PERFORMA.

Catherine Kostyn

February 23, 2021, 1:27 PM · I remember you mentioning that Andrew. I suspect that I did need both the extra height on the treble side, and it sits closer to my neck.

I do need to tighten it a bit though, from the way the feet rests I suspect my instrument is just a tad more narrow than the factory settings assume.

Thanks Ella!

VLM Diamond and Wolf Forte Secundo comparison

Replies (3)

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