FAQ
What is the mission of DOLFINOS?
DOLFINOS designs smart, innovative gear for violin and viola players, combining comfort, functionality, and cutting-edge design. After winning the Swiss Startups Award in 2013, we set out in 2014 with a mission to revolutionize musical equipment. Our flagship product - the All-in-One Rest System was developed through years of research in collaboration with ETH Zurich, the University of Cambridge, and professional musicians, and was officially released in 2020. Today, our equipment is used by musicians in over 58 countries, including world-renowned soloists such as Leonidas Kavakos, Vilde Frang, and Laura Marzadori. DOLFINOS is proud to support musicians at every level with equipment that truly makes a difference.
How long do I wait for my DOLFINOS Rest System?
Normally the shipping of a DOLFINOS Rest System takes around 7-21 days (depending on the target country). Please be aware that shipping delays are possible.
When will you ship my order?
We ship once per week, usually on Monday or Tuesday.
Do you deliver to Germany, Europe or even the whole world?
We do our best to deliver to as many countries as possible. You can check our webshop to see whether we deliver to your country.
Is it true that I can test the product for free and send back if I don't like it?
Yes, you are right. Every customer has the right to test the product and return it within 15 days if it does not meet their expectations. You can find more information in our return policy.
Where does the name DOLFINOS come from? Is it an Italian name?
I’m sorry to disappoint you, but in Italian, dolphin is called “delfino.” However, there are indeed some parallels to dolphins. The initial idea behind DOLFINOS was to develop a chin and shoulder rest solution that would help children learn to play the violin more easily, and make it more fun. The first prototype resembled two dolphins’ heads jumping out of the ocean (perhaps you can see the resemblance in our logo?). Over the years of research and development, it became increasingly clear how appropriate and fitting the name DOLFINOS was for our company. These mammals represent freedom of movement, elegance, and friendliness, just like our product.
I would like to reduce health risks associated with my profession. Can DOLFINOS help with that?
Of course, we are not doctors, but we would love to contribute to improving your comfort while playing! It’s true that our product can help you feel better thanks to its adjustable components, which allow for a more ergonomic playing experience.
What parts of the DOLFINOS Rest System are adjustable?
You can adjust the height of your chinrest by up to 10 mm, as well as adjust the position of the cushions and the height of the shoulder rest for your individual comfort.
What parts of the DOLFINOS Rest System are interchangeable?
You can choose between five different standard chinrests, the Vienna, the Venezia, the Berlin, the Lisbon, and the Toledo model. In order to find the right chin rest for you, please read the information about it in our product menu.
Do you offer different sizes of the DOLFINOS Rest System?
We offer a standard edition intended for violin players and a long edition intended for viola players with the according adapters. The chinrests can be used for both editions. If you are not sure whether the DOLFINOS Rest System fits on your violin or viola, please get in touch with us.
How do I know which adapter is the right one for my violin?
What can I do if I don't know which chinrest fits me best?
We recommend ordering more than one chinrest if you are unsure which chinrest fits you best. We offer a 15-day trial period on all standard models. This allows you to try out the chinrests at home at your leisure and return the products you do not wish to keep.
I want a rest system that is reliably attached to the instrument. Can DOLFINOS help?
Yes, in this case you are lucky to play a DOLFINOS! Our product is reliably attached to the instrument without squeezing its body. So it's not only about a more reliable attachment, but also about a gentler handling of your instrument and therefore a freer sound.
How has the Rest System been developed?
The Rest System has been developed with and for musicians. DOLFINOS worked together with leading scientific institutions and Swiss production partners to come to the most excellent solution.
What are the key innovations?
We can off course not disclose all our innovations. One which we are happy to share with you is how we developed the ground-breaking grip hoods. These were developed with the The Swiss Institute of Polymer Nanotechnology over a process of two years. This resulted in the creation of a micro lamella structure which allows a never before experienced grip on textiles and skin to reduce the pressure needed to hold the violin. Another one worth mentioning is the non invasive adapter. This has been developed together with ETH Zurich and the University of Cambridge and approved by Habisreutinger Stiftung to be mounted on their collection of rare Stradivarius violins and violas.
How do I have to take care of the DOLFINOS Rest System?
If you want your DOLFINOS Rest System to accompany you throughout your life, it needs your attentive care. It is a piece that you will use every day for several hours. Don't worry! It's easy, it won't take long and we explain it in our video tutorials section.
How do I assembly the DOLFINOS Rest System?
Our video tutorials for the independent and easy assembly / disassembly of the system as well as the adjustment for individual playing needs are available on our website.
What do I do in case some parts of the product need to be replaced?
We offer a customer-friendly service with a sustainable production concept. The longevity of the product is additionally supported by the possibility to order spare parts or have repairs carried out.
What do I do in case the DOLFINOS Rest System needs to be repaired?
All DOLFINOS devices are serviced and repaired in our manufacture in Switzerland. If you have problems with your Rest System send us an e-mail or make an appointment with us.
If you want to ask us something else: mail@dolfinos.com
