Best Acoustic Cellos for Contemporary Classical 2025

Perfect acoustic cellos for contemporary-classical - easy to play and learn on

Last updated: October 22, 2025 • Next update: October 29, 2025

PRICE RANGES: Under $2,000 Under $5,000

SKILL LEVELS: For Beginner For Intermediate For Professional For Advanced

GENRES & STYLES: For Classical For Chamber Music For Orchestra For Solo Performance For Contemporary Classical

BRANDS: Gewa Scala Vilagio Lothar Semmlinger Hidersine Karl Höfner Roth & Junius

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Stradivari 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 5.0/5 (28 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Stradivari 4/4

by Bernd Hiller & Sohn

Solo Performance Classical Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Essential orchestral voice

✓ PROS

• Rich, warm lower register
• Essential orchestral voice

✗ CONS

• Heavy and awkward to transport
• Advanced technique required

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Stradivari 4/4Master CelloSize: 4/4Model after Antonio StradivariOld seasoned...

⭐ 5.0/5 (28 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 568937

$16,390

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Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/B - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (14 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/B

by Roth & Junius

Solo Performance Chamber Music Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Versatile across musical periods

✓ PROS

• Versatile across musical periods
• Rich, warm lower register

✗ CONS

• Advanced technique required
• Heavy and awkward to transport

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/B*Bundle offer comprising*, Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello...

⭐ 4.9/5 (14 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 610163

$1,804

Buy at Thomann View Details

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.2 Cello 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.2 Cello 4/4

by Stefan Semmlinger

Contemporary Classical Chamber Music Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Essential orchestral voice

✓ PROS

• Rich, warm lower register
• Versatile across musical periods

✗ CONS

• Requires proper setup and maintenance
• Heavy and awkward to transport

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.2 Cello 4/4CelloSize: 4/4Semmlinger Stradivari family modelMade in GermanyTonewood...

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 595035

$19,690

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Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.1 Cello 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (35 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.1 Cello 4/4

by Stefan Semmlinger

Classical Contemporary Classical Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Versatile across musical periods

✓ PROS

• Essential orchestral voice
• Expressive bowing techniques

✗ CONS

• Sensitive to climate changes
• Requires proper setup and maintenance

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.1 Cello 4/4CelloSemmlinger Stradivari family modelTonewood seasoned for at least 10...

⭐ 4.9/5 (35 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 595033

$15,290

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Walter Mahr Baroque Cello Stradivari 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.8/5 (22 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Walter Mahr Baroque Cello Stradivari 4/4

by Walter Mahr

Solo Performance Classical Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Expressive bowing techniques

✓ PROS

• Rich, warm lower register
• Wide dynamic range capability

✗ CONS

• Sensitive to climate changes
• Expensive quality instruments

Walter Mahr Baroque Cello Stradivari 4/4Baroque CelloStradivari modelSolidevenly grained spruce topBack and sides made...

⭐ 4.8/5 (22 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 595705

$10,780

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Lothar Semmlinger No. 134A Antiqued Cello 7/8 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (3 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Lothar Semmlinger No. 134A Antiqued Cello 7/8

by Lothar Semmlinger

Classical Solo Performance Contemporary Classical

Key Feature:

• Wide dynamic range capability

✓ PROS

• Expressive bowing techniques
• Rich, warm lower register

✗ CONS

• Requires proper setup and maintenance
• Expensive quality instruments

Lothar Semmlinger No. 134A Antiqued Cello 7/8Cello in Antique FinishSize: 7/8Scale: 66 cmMaster instrumentStradivari...

⭐ 4.9/5 (3 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 586813

$5,819

Buy at Thomann View Details

Lothar Semmlinger No. 133A Antiqued Cello 7/8 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (3 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Lothar Semmlinger No. 133A Antiqued Cello 7/8

by Lothar Semmlinger

Solo Performance Contemporary Classical Classical

Key Feature:

• Versatile across musical periods

✓ PROS

• Rich, warm lower register
• Versatile across musical periods

✗ CONS

• Advanced technique required
• Sensitive to climate changes

Lothar Semmlinger No. 133A Antiqued Cello 7/8Cello in Antique FinishSize: 7/8Scale: 66 cmStradivari styleSolid spruce...

⭐ 4.7/5 (3 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 586812

$4,829

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Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Montagnana 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Montagnana 4/4

by Bernd Hiller & Sohn

Classical Contemporary Classical Chamber Music

Key Feature:

• Wide dynamic range capability

✓ PROS

• Versatile across musical periods
• Essential orchestral voice

✗ CONS

• Sensitive to climate changes
• Requires proper setup and maintenance

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Montagnana 4/4Master CelloSize: 4/4Model after Domenico MontagnanaOld seasoned...

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 568936

$16,390

Buy at Thomann View Details

Anton Stöhr & Sohn Faszination Cello Strad. Sup. - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (31 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Anton Stöhr & Sohn Faszination Cello Strad. Sup.

by Anton Stöhr & Sohn

Classical Orchestra Contemporary Classical

Key Feature:

• Versatile across musical periods

✓ PROS

• Essential orchestral voice
• Versatile across musical periods

✗ CONS

• Heavy and awkward to transport
• Requires proper setup and maintenance

Anton Stöhr & Sohn Faszination Cello Strad. Sup.CelloSize: 4/4Stradivari Superior modelMade by master violin maker...

⭐ 4.6/5 (31 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 565258

$13,750

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Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello Guarneri - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#10

⭐ 4.9/5 (52 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello Guarneri

by Scala Vilagio

Solo Performance Chamber Music Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Essential orchestral voice

✓ PROS

• Essential orchestral voice
• Wide dynamic range capability

✗ CONS

• Heavy and awkward to transport
• Sensitive to climate changes

Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello Guarneri4/4 CelloMade in GermanyHandmade in the style of the famous "Messeas...

⭐ 4.9/5 (52 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 566546

$9,889

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Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/E - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#11

⭐ 4.9/5 (27 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/E

by Roth & Junius

Chamber Music Classical Solo Performance

Key Feature:

• Wide dynamic range capability

✓ PROS

• Versatile across musical periods
• Rich, warm lower register

✗ CONS

• Expensive quality instruments
• Sensitive to climate changes

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/E*Bundle offer comprising*, Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello...

⭐ 4.9/5 (27 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 610164

$1,804

Buy at Thomann View Details

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello An/Eb - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#12

⭐ 4.5/5 (35 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

7/10

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello An/Eb

by Roth & Junius

Contemporary Classical Orchestra Classical

Key Feature:

• Essential orchestral voice

✓ PROS

• Essential orchestral voice
• Expressive bowing techniques

✗ CONS

• Advanced technique required
• Expensive quality instruments

Roth & Junius Orchestra Cello Antiqued EbCelloSize: 4/4Solid spruce topSolidslightly flamed maple backPegstailpiece...

⭐ 4.5/5 (35 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 610160

$1,749

Buy at Thomann View Details

Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona Marco Dotti Gore - Booth Cello - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#13

⭐ 4.7/5 (51 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona Marco Dotti Gore - Booth Cello

by Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona

Contemporary Classical Chamber Music Solo Performance

Key Feature:

• Versatile across musical periods

✓ PROS

• Wide dynamic range capability
• Essential orchestral voice

✗ CONS

• Heavy and awkward to transport
• Sensitive to climate changes

Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona Marco Dotti Gore - Booth CelloCelloAntonio Stradivari "Gore - Booth 1710"...

⭐ 4.7/5 (51 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 584261

$32,890

Buy at Thomann View Details

Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello GO2 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#14

⭐ 4.6/5 (26 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello GO2 4/4

by Scala Vilagio

Orchestra Classical Chamber Music

Key Feature:

• Expressive bowing techniques

✓ PROS

• Versatile across musical periods
• Essential orchestral voice

✗ CONS

• Advanced technique required
• Sensitive to climate changes

Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello GO2 4/4CelloSize: 4/4Matteo Gofriller modelSolid spruce topBeautifully flamed solid...

⭐ 4.6/5 (26 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 569108

$7,359

Buy at Thomann View Details

Eastman R. Doetsch Cello VC7015G+ 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#15

⭐ 4.7/5 (11 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Eastman R. Doetsch Cello VC7015G+ 4/4

by Eastman

Contemporary Classical Classical Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Wide dynamic range capability

✓ PROS

• Versatile across musical periods
• Wide dynamic range capability

✗ CONS

• Heavy and awkward to transport
• Requires proper setup and maintenance

Eastman R. Doetsch Cello VC7015G+ 4/45-String 4/4 Cello with PickupGuarneri model with a pickup system embedded in the...

⭐ 4.7/5 (11 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 614925

$4,389

Buy at Thomann View Details

How to Choose the Best Acoustic Cellos

Budget Planning

• Under $200: Entry-level
• $200-$500: Intermediate
• $500-$1000: Advanced
• $1000+: Professional

Quality Check

• Sound clarity & tone
• Build materials & finish
• Hardware durability
• Overall craftsmanship

Key Features

• Your musical style
• Skill level match
• Intended use case
• Brand reputation

Frequently Asked Questions

Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.

Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.

Higher-priced acoustic cellos typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.

Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.

Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.

Best Acoustic Cellos for Contemporary Classical 2025

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Stradivari 4/4

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/B

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.2 Cello 4/4

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.1 Cello 4/4

Walter Mahr Baroque Cello Stradivari 4/4

Lothar Semmlinger No. 134A Antiqued Cello 7/8

Lothar Semmlinger No. 133A Antiqued Cello 7/8

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Montagnana 4/4

Anton Stöhr & Sohn Faszination Cello Strad. Sup.

Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello Guarneri

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/E

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello An/Eb

Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona Marco Dotti Gore - Booth Cello

Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello GO2 4/4

Eastman R. Doetsch Cello VC7015G+ 4/4

How to Choose the Best Acoustic Cellos

Budget Planning

Quality Check

Key Features

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when buying acoustic cellos?

How much should I spend on acoustic cellos?

Are expensive acoustic cellos worth the investment?

What are the best brands for acoustic cellos?

Should I buy acoustic cellos online or in-store?

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