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Stretto® Humidifier for Violin or Viola

Item # S1010

Sale: $22.50 Shar: $30.00


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Average Customer Rating:

5 Stars
 
#S1010 Includes case and 2 humidification bags, no hygro-thermometer. The Stretto (Switzerland) is simply the most effective system for maintaining a safe and consistent humidity level in a case's interior. The Stretto bag effectively humidifies for up to two weeks. When ready to rehydrate the bag, simply re-soak in water (distilled for best results). Benefits to the player include their instrument being safer from the risk of cracks, consistent performance, bow hair does not dry and shrink causing higher tension risking warpage or even tip breaks.... Charles Avsharian, President of Shar: "I highly recommend the Stretto system to advanced players and professionals as it is without question the best humidifying system available. The humidifying bags are easy to use, and last up to two weeks without any maintenance. For those with valuable instruments and bows, I believe the Stretto system is extremely valuable for safeguarding their investment and for consistent top performance."

Why use a humidifier?

The winter months ahead will bring with them colder and drier air which can be dangerous for instruments and bows. Wood absorbs and releases moisture as humidity levels change in the surrounding air. Instruments are, of course, made of wood. Dry air causes wood to release moisture which causes it to shrink and/or shift ever so slightly which for your instrument can lead to cracks and expensive repair bills. Of course most instruments will not crack, but as your instrument dries out, its tone will change, and seldom does it change for the better! Bow horsehair shrinks in dry air which can impair sound quality, or cause the bow to warp, or could even result in a disastrous bow tip break. A good phrase that comes to mind is: "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Purchasing a relatively inexpensive humidifier will protect your investment and you to sound your best.


Dimensions
Length: 3"
Width: 2 1/4"
Height: 3/4"
1-Year Limited Warranty
This item comes with Shar's 1 year warranty covering defects of workmanship or materials. General wear and tear or mis-use are not covered. Non-transferable.

Media Return Policy
These items are non-refundable unless defective. If defective, they must be returned within 30 days of purchase for same title replacement only. No refunds will be given.

If you have any questions about this product's warranty or to make a return, please contact our Customer Service Department at 800.793.4334 or email us at sharserv@sharmusic.com
 

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Customer Reviews

5 Stars
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2 Review(s)

  • Rating:
    50 Stars
    Posted By: PH from Skokie, IL
    July 01, 2008

    It works!!

    Put it simple, it works as it claims. I also live in the Chicago area and winter weather here can be hectic. The stretto humidifier manages to maintain the RH of my violin case at about 60 hen closed. I also use distilled water. The instruction says 3 minutes of soaking, but I usually soak the pack for 10 minutes. A gallon bottle of distilled water )about US$0.80( will be more than enough for the whole winter. The provided velcro does not stick to the interior lining of my case. Turns out I ventured to use the iron-on velcro for clothing )available @ Walmart for about US$4.00(and it works very well. Since I have no access to the back of the material, I simply place a terry-cloth towel on top of the velcro and iron the velcro with steam on. ... (See Full Review)

    14 out of 15 people found this review helpful
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  • Rating:
    40 Stars
    Posted By: Doyle from Chicago, IL
    August 06, 2007

    Effective humidity control, even in Chicago

    I have been using the Stretto Humidifier for three years now and am happy to say that it is a very effective product in the battle with wintertime humidity. Living in Chicago and traveling frequently o NYC and abroad, my viola is subject to a wide spectrum of humidity levels, which can not only cause cracks, but can also contribute to a worsening of sound quality during these months. The reusable insert in the humidifier is dunked in a glass of distilled water (not tap water, unless you are looking for a science experiment the next time you open your case) for ten minutes. The insert should then be patted dry with a paper towel to remove excess water. I have never had an issue of water seeping out of the insert and into my case. I would recommend purchasing a humidity gauge (I use the Planet Waves Humidity Sensor, also offered by Shar) to keep an eye on your levels. During dry weather, check the insert frequently. I have found that the insert takes on water more easily when not completely dried out. As far as mounting the humidifier in your violin/viola case, keep it clear of contact with your instrument. ... (See Full Review)

    163 out of 295 people found this review helpful
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