To shed light on familiar ground to an unfamiliar traveler.
Q: I have an ArcRest, but would like a different pad. What are my options?
A: You have two options. You can buy an additional pad, or we also offer the opportunity to exchange a lightly used pad for a different pad of your choice.
Q: Which product is right for me?
A: While one of the best things about the ArcRest is the flexibility, we do have some recommendations based on the size of your instrument. See the table below.
| Viola size | violin size | body length | O/A length | max width | Recommended size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16.5 | 16.5 | 27 | 9 | ArcRest viola | |
| 16 | 16 | 26.5 | 8.75 | ArcRest viola | |
| 15.5 | 15.5 | 26 | 8.5 | ArcRest viola | |
| 15 | 15 | 25 | 8 | ArcRest violin or viola | |
| 14 | 4/4 | 14 | 23.5 | 7.5 | ArcRest violin or viola |
| 7/8 | 13.5 | 22.5 | 7.25 | ArcRest violin or viola | |
| 13 | 3/4 | 13 | 21.75 | 7 | ArcRest violin or viola |
| 1/2 | 12.5 | 20.5 | 6.75 | ArcRest violin | |
| 12 | 12 | 20.5 | 6.75 | Shoulder Buddy or ArcRest violin | |
| 1/4 | 11.5 | 18.75 | 6 | Shoulder Buddy or ArcRest violin | |
| 1/8 | 10.25 | 17.25 | 5.5 | Shoulder Buddy | |
| 1/10 | 9.25 | 16 | 5 | Shoulder Buddy | |
| 1/16 | 8.25 | 14.5 | 4.45 | Shoulder Buddy |
A little bit of extra advice: if you are on the border (1/4 size violin or 12"-14" viola with the intent to go larger), we recommend purchasing the larger option as it will serve you longer.
Q: What are the sizes of the different bases?
A: The Shoulder Buddy is 1.5" x 3" (38mm x 76mm), the violin base is 2" x 4" (51mm x 102mm), and the viola base is 2" x 5" (51mm x 127mm)
Q: Which pad or pad combination should I choose?
A: While there is no hard and fast rule (we've changed multiple times over the course of developing the ArcRest), we have suggestions that we have found generally work. If you use a cosmetic ("red") sponge, we recommend starting with the thin set. For users of larger foam sponges or product such as the PlayOnAir or AcoustaGrip, the medium set is a good place to start. For users of Kun-style rests, the thick set is typically the best match.
The nominal overall height of an ArcRest with each pad is:
- Extra Thin: 0.71" (18mm)
- Thin: 0.96" (24.4mm)
- Medium: 1.07" (27.2mm)
- Thick: 1.18" (30mm)
- Extra Thick: 1.30" (33mm)
Of course, if you find you need something different than what you've purchased, we will work with you to find a solution that fits you best.
Q: Will the ArcRest work on a viola?
A: We have found that generally, the ArcRest will work with all but the largest of violas. We have worked with a number of violists and found a configuration that fits those instruments. The base is 1" longer, 5"/127mm instead of 4"/102mm.
Q: How durable is the ArcRest?
A: The bases are quite durable! Under normal use, the base should retain its shape indefinitely. We have subjected a number of bases to bending loads of up to 30 lbs (13.6kg) which far exceed any load experienced during playing, all without negative impact. In addition, bases have been loaded at a lower level, 3 lbs (1.5kg) for over 3000 hours with less than 0.025" (0.63mm) change in shape.
The foam pads are also made from durable materials, but like other foam pads, they may eventually wear out. To extend the life of any given pad, we recommend alternating the orientation of the pad on your instrument. Fortunately, when your pad does wear out, you do not need to buy an entirely new set, but simply replace the pad!
Q: I'm having trouble putting the elastic band on my instrument. What can I do?
A: Some people have smaller buttons that might not easily accommodate the elastic band supplied with the ArcRest. If this is the case, we recommend threading the band behind the tailgut. This has the added benefit that the band will never fall off of your instrument!
We also have a short video that goes over how to put on the band on our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/moNk9WNBsnA
Q: My band doesn't stay put on the corners of my instrument!
A: Oils may wind up being deposited on the band from handling it, which may keep it from sticking as intended on your instrument. If your elastic band doesn't stick, simply wash the band with normal hand soap. This will remove dirt and oil, allowing the band to grip the corners of the instrument as intended.
Q: What is your return policy?
A: We understand that the ArcRest may not be for everyone. With that in mind, we accept returns up to 30 days after receipt of the product, as long as the ArcRest is in good shape.
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A. Yes! We ship to most countries via USPS 1st class international package service. Generally, the cost is $16.50. If you have troubles during checkout, we have found this website helpful in formatting international addresses:
-Â http://www.bitboost.com/ref/international-address-formats.html
You can also contact us, and we would be happy to assist you!
We have a list of shops in Europe where the ArcRest is available, and you can always contact us if you don't see a nearby shop or have any other questions!