Hi fellas,
Do youself a huge favor and get a digital hygrometer and salt test it so you know how far it is off (usually 2-4%).
You can get a really good one like the Prometheus or pick one up at Walmart for $13 - just make sure to salt test them.
The absolute best way to make sure your sticks are at the correct humidity is with the humidity beads sold at
www.heartfeltindustries.com - by far a "must have".
Cello on, cello off - really makes no difference. I have some 8 year old sticks with the cello on and some with it off.
Hope this helps!
~Mark