Frequently Asked Questions

Find solutions to your general music-related queries with our FAQ section.
For any special inquiry or other concern, please visit our contact page.
If you like to have more details about our products and catalogues can also visit our guides page.

General questions

Who makes OP Store products?

All our products are handcrafted in our Italian workshop by skilled artisans who have dedicated their careers to creating premium string instrument parts. We combine traditional techniques passed down through generations with modern understanding of what players need.

Are these parts suitable for professional musicians?

Absolutely. Our products are designed and crafted to professional standards, trusted by soloists, orchestra musicians, and luthiers across Europe. Every piece undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure it meets our exacting standards.

Can I install these parts myself?

While some experienced players may install certain parts, we strongly recommend professional installation by a qualified luthier. Proper fitting is essential for optimal performance, instrument safety, and tonal quality. Improper installation can damage your instrument or compromise sound quality.

Do you offer wholesale pricing?

Yes! We work with music shops and luthiers worldwide. Volume discounts are available starting at 10 pieces, with flexible mixed orders and no unrealistic minimums. Contact us for wholesale pricing.

Where do you ship?

We ship worldwide from Italy. Shipping times vary by destination but typically range from 3-7 business days within Europe and 7-14 business days internationally.

What is your return policy?

We accept returns within 30 days of purchase for unused, undamaged items in original packaging. Professional installation voids returns unless there's a manufacturing defect. Please review our full Refund Policy for details.

End Buttons

What does an end button do?

The end button anchors the tailgut to your instrument's endblock (the reinforced wood block at the bottom of your violin or viola). It's a critical component for string stability and proper setup.

Standard vs Semi Hill end button - what's the difference?
  • Standard: Simple, functional profile
  • Semi Hill: Features elegant curves inspired by Hill design aesthetic

Both function identically; the Semi Hill offers enhanced visual appeal. Choose based on your preference and whether you want to coordinate with Hill-style tailpieces.

Should my end button match my other fittings?

Many players prefer coordinated fittings for visual harmony, but it's not mandatory. An ebony end button looks beautiful with ebony tailpiece and pegs, for example. However, mixed materials can create interesting visual contrast if that's your preference.

How do I know if my end button needs replacement?

Signs include:

  • Visible cracks or damage
  • Loose fit (tailgut slipping)
  • Wear that compromises tailgut attachment
  • Aesthetic upgrade desired

Consult your luthier if you notice any issues.

Can I change my end button without professional help?

We strongly advise against it. The end button is fitted into the endblock, and improper installation or removal can:

  • Crack the endblock
  • Damage the instrument's ribs
  • Compromise tailgut security
  • Void your instrument's warranty

Always have a professional luthier perform end button installation or replacement.

Chinrests

Why is the Guarneri chinrest so popular?

The Guarneri design has been favored for over a century because it:

  • Provides excellent stability and comfort
  • Accommodates a wide range of jaw and neck shapes
  • Positions slightly left of center, which suits most playing styles
  • Offers proven ergonomics without sacrificing aesthetics

It's the most universally comfortable design for the majority of players.

How do I choose the right chinrest material?

onsider these factors:

  • Comfort: Ebony stays coolest; boxwood has a warm, smooth feel
  • Weight: Boxwood is lightest; ebony is heaviest (can affect instrument balance)
  • Aesthetics: Match or contrast with your other fittings
  • Skin sensitivity: Natural woods are hypoallergenic; some players prefer the smooth feel of highly polished ebony

Many players try several before finding their perfect match.

What's the difference between chrome, black, and Hill hardware?

Hardware primarily affects aesthetics and durability:

  • Chrome: Traditional silver-toned finish, excellent durability
  • Black: Modern appearance, coordinates with contemporary setups
  • Hill: Elegant curved design, refined aesthetic appeal

All hardware types function identically for chinrest mounting and adjustment.

My chinrest causes skin irritation - what should I do?

Skin irritation can occur from:

  • Allergic reaction: Some players are sensitive to certain metal hardware (nickel allergies are common)
  • Finish: Some varnishes or finishes can cause reactions
  • Pressure: Improper positioning causing excessive pressure

Solutions:

  • Try black or Hill hardware if nickel causes allergies
  • Use a chinrest cover (available in various materials)
  • Consult your luthier about positioning
  • Consider hypoallergenic woods like boxwood
Can a chinrest affect my sound?

he chinrest has minimal direct impact on tone compared to tailpiece or bridge, but it can affect:

  • Playing comfort: Better comfort = better playing = better sound
  • Instrument damping: Heavy chinrests can slightly damp vibrations
  • Setup balance: Weight distribution affects how the instrument responds

Choose primarily for comfort; any tonal effect is secondary.

How often should I replace my chinrest?
  • It's cracked or damaged
  • Hardware is loose or damaged
  • It no longer provides comfortable positioning
  • You want to upgrade aesthetics or try different ergonomics

Quality chinrests can last decades with proper care. Many professionals never replace theirs unless damaged or seeking an ergonomic change.

Tailpieces

What tailpiece style should I choose?

The most common styles are:

  • Hill: Classic design with graceful curves, popular for its elegant appearance and excellent tonal qualities
  • French: Streamlined profile, modern aesthetic, works well with contemporary setups
  • Round: Traditional design with balanced string tension distribution
  • Parisian: Distinctive shape with unique character

Choose based on your instrument's aesthetic and your luthier's recommendation for your specific setup.

Which material is best for my tailpiece?

Each material offers different characteristics:

  • Ebony: Dense, dark, focused tone. Most popular for professional instruments.
  • Rosewood: Warm tone with beautiful grain. Excellent balance of aesthetics and performance.
  • Boxwood: Lighter weight, bright response. Ideal for period or historically-informed setups.
  • Exotic woods (Padouk, Tamarindo): Unique appearance and tonal characteristics for distinctive setups.

Consult your luthier about which material best complements your instrument's voice.

What's the difference between standard, white fret, and black fret hardware?

This refers to the fine tuners integrated into the tailpiece:

  • Standard: Traditional nickel or chrome finish
  • White Fret: Lighter colored hardware, complements ivory or bone fittings
  • Black Fret: Modern aesthetic, coordinates with contemporary setups

Hardware choice is primarily aesthetic and doesn't significantly affect tone.

How much does a tailpiece affect sound?

The tailpiece plays a significant role in tone production. Material, weight, and design all influence:

  • String afterlength and vibration
  • Sound transmission to the instrument body
  • Overall tonal color and focus

A properly fitted, quality tailpiece can enhance clarity, warmth, and projection.

What's a tailgut and do I need one?

A tailgut connects your tailpiece to the endbutton. Yes, you need one! We recommend Kevlar tailguts for their durability and stability. Your luthier will install the proper length during fitting.

Can I mix materials? (e.g., ebony tailpiece with rosewood pegs)

Yes, you can mix materials, though many players prefer coordinated fittings for visual harmony. The most important factor is choosing quality parts properly fitted to your instrument. Some mixing can create interesting visual contrast.

Pegs

Do pegs come as a set?

Yes. Our pegs are sold in sets of 4 pieces—the standard number needed for violin, viola, or cello (one per string). Sets ensure:

  • Consistent material and grain
  • Matching appearance
  • Uniform quality across all positions
What's the difference between Swiss and Hill model pegs?

  • Swiss Model: Features the standard Swiss taper (1:30 ratio), the most common peg taper worldwide. Universally compatible with most modern instruments and preferred for its reliable, proven design.
  • Hill Model: Classic English design with elegant shaping and traditional aesthetics. Named after the renowned Hill workshop, it offers refined appearance while maintaining excellent functionality.

Both models perform identically when properly fitted. Choose based on aesthetic preference or your luthier's recommendation for your specific pegbox.

Which material is best - Ebony or Rosewood?

Ebony:

  • Extremely hard and dense
  • Classic black appearance
  • Premium traditional look
  • Most durable option
  • Matches ebony tailpieces/chinrests
  • Higher price point

Rosewood:

  • Beautiful warm grain patterns
  • Excellent durability
  • Slightly softer than ebony (easier on pegbox)
  • Warm, elegant appearance
  • Outstanding value
  • Versatile aesthetic

Both materials perform excellently. Choose based on aesthetic preferences and budget. Rosewood offers exceptional quality at a more accessible price.

Should all my pegs match my other fittings?

Matching fittings (pegs, tailpiece, chinrest, end button) create visual harmony, but it's not mandatory. Many players mix materials intentionally—for example:

  • Ebony pegs with rosewood tailpiece
  • Rosewood pegs with ebony chinrest

The most important factors are quality and proper fitting. Aesthetic coordination is personal preference.

How do I know when my pegs need replacing?

Replace pegs if you notice:

  • Slipping: Pegs won't hold tuning, constantly slip under string tension
  • Sticking: Extremely difficult to turn, require excessive force
  • Cracking: Visible cracks or splits in the wood
  • Excessive wear: Visible grooves where strings contact wood
  • Damage: Broken shafts or heads
  • Poor fit: Gaps around peg where it meets pegbox

Many tuning issues are actually fitting problems (pegbox wear, incorrect taper) rather than peg quality. Consult your luthier for diagnosis.

Can I mix Swiss and Hill pegs on the same instrument?

Not recommended. Mixing peg models creates:

  • Visual inconsistency
  • Potential taper mismatches if pegbox holes aren't uniform
  • Aesthetic disharmony

If replacing individual pegs, match your existing model. If replacing all four, you can switch models, but all four should match.

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