Choosing the Perfect Electric Violin: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Professionals

When it comes to selecting an electric violin, the decision can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. This guide aims to help you make an informed choice based on your skill level, budget, and intended use, whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or professional player.

Factors to Consider Before Buying an Electric Violin

Before diving into the specifics of different models, consider the following factors:

Budget: Determine how much you can comfortably spend on an instrument. Sound Quality: Listen to sound samples if available. The quality of the sound is crucial for a great playing experience. Features: Look for built-in amplifiers, pickups, and other functionalities that can enhance your playing. Playability: Try out the instruments before purchasing if possible. Comfort and ease of play are vital.

Beginner Electric Violins

For beginners, the following models stand out as excellent choices:

Yamaha SV-130

Feature: Includes a built-in pickup, making it easy to start playing electrically. Price: Moderate, making it affordable for beginners.

Cecilio CEVN-2

Feature: Affordable, includes a case and bow, and has a built-in tuner for convenience. Price: Budget-friendly, ideal for beginners and casual players.

Intermediate Electric Violins

As you progress to intermediate levels, you might want to explore models that offer more advanced features and build quality:

NS Design CR Series

Feature: Innovative design, great sound, and comfortable to play. Available in various sizes. Price: Higher-end but worth the investment for serious players.

Wood Violins Viper

Feature: Unique design, high-quality construction, and excellent sound projection. Price: Mid to high range, suitable for players who prioritize quality over budget.

Professional Electric Violins

For professional players, the following models offer exceptional sound quality and versatility:

Zeta Strados

Feature: Exceptional sound quality, versatile, and used by many professional musicians. Price: High-end, ideal for serious professional players.

Barcus Berry 4-String Electric Violin

Feature: High-quality wood construction, great tone, and suitable for various music styles. Price: Premium, reflecting the high standard of craftsmanship.

Expert Recommendations and Considerations

While there are many great options, it's important to avoid low-quality instruments sold on platforms like eBay. These instruments are often poorly built and cheaply made, which can negatively impact your playing experience. Below are some well-regarded brands and models:

NS Designs: Known for their remarkable flexibility and ergonomic design. I own two NS Designs - a low-cost WAV series and a top-of-the-line CR series. Mark Wood Instruments: Expensive but regarded for their exceptional quality. Yamaha: Widely recommended, despite not being my personal preference. Other Brands: Bridge Fourness, Zeta, Cantini, Jordan Glasser, and Barcus-Berry are also highly respected by professional musicians.

A valuable resource for finding the perfect electric violin is the Electric Violin Shop. This shop offers excellent customer advice, publishes numerous articles and videos, and has a reputation for helping musicians find the right instrument for their needs.

Conclusion

Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or professional player, finding the right electric violin is crucial for your development and enjoyment of the instrument. Always research, try out the instruments, and consult with experts to ensure you make the best choice for your unique needs and aspirations.