Trystan Casey
Setting up an electric violin requires a few key components and adjustments. Firstly, you'll need the violin itself, a bow, and an amplifier (amp). The amp is essential for producing sound with an electric violin, and it's recommended to use a bass guitar amplifier to stay within the frequency range of the violin. You can connect the violin directly to the amp using a jack cable, and if you want to use effects pedals, headphones, or a mix table, additional cables and equipment may be required. Before playing, it's important to adjust the violin's setup, including string heights, string clearance, and lubrication of the string slots. For active instruments that require batteries, insert the battery and test all knobs and functions. These steps ensure the best playability and tone for your electric violin setup.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Connection | Connect the electric violin to an amplifier (amp) with a jack cable. |
| Amp | Regular amps, mini-amps, or bass guitar amplifiers are used. |
| Accessories | Loop and effects pedals, headphones, iRigs, preamps, and mixing decks are some accessories that can be used. |
| Testing | Test for blemishes, string heights, string clearance, and smooth function of pegs and tuners. |
| Maintenance | Lubricate string slots, treat wooden friction pegs, and ensure proper power and volume control to maintain the instrument. |
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What You'll Learn
Connecting to an amplifier
Connecting an electric violin to an amplifier is a straightforward process, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best sound quality and to protect your equipment.
Firstly, it is important to ensure that the amplifier is suitable for an electric violin. While guitar amps can be used, the signal level may be too low and require a lot of gain, which can cause issues with hum pickup. Therefore, it is recommended to use a bass guitar amplifier, as it stays within the frequency range of the electric violin.
To connect the violin to the amplifier, a jack cable is required. One end of the cable is plugged into the output jack on the violin, and the other end is plugged into the input jack on the amplifier. It is important to ensure that the volume on both the violin and the amplifier is set to zero before making any connections, as this will protect your equipment and your ears from potential damage caused by loud sounds.
Once the violin and amplifier are connected, you can adjust the volume on the amplifier to the desired level. If you are using an electric violin with a battery, ensure that it is inserted and turned on before playing.
Additionally, you may want to consider using an effects pedal or a pre-amp to further enhance the sound. An effects pedal can be connected between the violin and the amplifier using two jack cables, while a pre-amp can be used to boost the signal if you are experiencing issues with a low signal level.
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Adjusting string height
Adjusting the string height on an electric violin is a crucial step in ensuring optimal playability and performance. Here are the detailed instructions for this process:
Firstly, measure the current string heights. This provides a baseline understanding of the adjustments needed to achieve the desired string height. It is important to aim for a median-height classical action, which ensures comfortable playability and a balanced tone.
Next, make the necessary adjustments to the strings to achieve the desired height. This may involve tightening or loosening the strings, depending on the initial measurement. It is important to make fine adjustments gradually to avoid over-tightening or under-tightening the strings, which can affect the pitch and tension.
After adjusting the string height, it is crucial to check the string clearance at the nut and examine the fingerboard for consistency and adequate clearance. This ensures that the strings are not too close to the fingerboard, preventing unwanted contact and ensuring smooth playability.
To further enhance the performance of the violin, lubricate the string slots on the bridge and nut with graphite (pencil lead). This simple step allows the strings to glide freely, reducing friction and preventing issues like bridge lean and premature string wear.
Finally, test the violin by playing through an amplifier to evaluate the amplified tone and feel. This step ensures that the adjustments made to the string height have achieved the desired results, providing a comfortable playing experience and the intended sound output.
By carefully following these steps, violinists can ensure their electric violin is set up optimally, allowing for expressive playing and enjoyable musical experiences.
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Testing pegs and tuners
Testing the pegs and tuners is an important step in setting up an electric violin. This process ensures that the pegs and tuners are functioning smoothly and allow for accurate tuning of the instrument. Here is a detailed guide on testing pegs and tuners:
Testing Pegs:
Firstly, identify the desired pitch for each string by using a reference pitch from a piano, tuning fork, pitch pipe, or another source. For electric violins, guitar tuning pegs are often used, so pay attention to the rotation direction of the guitar machine heads. Place the violin flat on a table, which is more comfortable for beginners, or in a playing position. Pluck each string and adjust the pitch by turning the pegs. If the pitch is too low, tighten the string by turning the peg forward. If the pitch is too high, loosen the string by turning the peg back towards you. Be careful not to turn the pegs too much, especially on small violins, as even a small turn can significantly impact the pitch. Traditional pegs are held by friction, so push the peg in slightly while turning to prevent slipping. Geared pegs, on the other hand, do not require this extra step and are turned less, similar to fine tuners.
Testing Fine Tuners:
Fine tuners are used to make small adjustments to the pitch and are typically found on each string. To increase the pitch, turn the fine tuner clockwise, and to decrease it, turn it counter-clockwise. Fine tuners provide greater accuracy in reaching the desired pitch. However, be cautious as tightening them too much can damage the violin or cause a buzzing sound.
Using an Electronic Tuner:
While it is recommended to develop the skill of tuning by ear, an electronic tuner can be helpful for beginners. These devices provide a visual representation of the pitch, allowing for easier adjustment. Many effects processors also include a tuner, which is convenient for quick tuning during performances.
Troubleshooting:
If the pegs are difficult to turn, they may require lubrication. Consult a luthier for advice on the appropriate lubrication method. Additionally, with practice, tuning the violin will become easier, and you will develop a better understanding of the adjustments needed to achieve the desired pitch.
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Using a DI box
Setting up an electric violin can be a daunting task, but it's not as complicated as it seems. One of the most important components is the DI box, which stands for "direct injection" or "direct input". It serves as an intermediary between your electric violin and the mixing deck, solving impedance problems and balancing the electrical signal. Here's a step-by-step guide on using a DI box with your electric violin:
Choosing the Right DI Box
Start by selecting a suitable DI box for your electric violin. There are two main types: passive and active DI boxes. Passive DI boxes are generally preferred for electric violins as they provide a cleaner and more natural sound. Active DI boxes can introduce noise and distortion, especially when plugging in or out with the power activated. Look for DI boxes with high impedance handling capabilities, as the piezo pickup in electric violins operates in the mega-ohm range (1-10M), whereas most other instruments work in the kilo-ohm range. The Radial Piezo DI is a good example of a high-impedance DI box.
Connecting the DI Box
Once you've chosen your DI box, it's time to connect it to your electric violin and the rest of your setup. Use a jack cable to connect your electric violin or effects pedals to the input jack of the DI box. Then, use another jack cable to connect the output jack of the DI box to your mixing deck or amplifier. Ensure that the volume levels are set to zero before plugging in or out any equipment, including your electric violin, effects pedals, and amplifier.
Adjusting the DI Box Settings
The DI box will allow you to adjust the tone and EQ of your electric violin. You can experiment with different settings to find the sound that suits your style and the specific performance. A good DI box will help clean up the tone and manage the high impedance of the piezo pickup, resulting in a clearer and more balanced sound.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
DI boxes are generally low-maintenance, but it's important to handle them with care. Always turn off the power before connecting or disconnecting any equipment, including the DI box. Additionally, regularly check your cables and connections to ensure they are in good condition. If you encounter any issues with your DI box, such as a low signal level, consider using a jack-to-XLR adapter to connect to the balanced mic input on your mixing desk, which can provide a slight boost to the signal.
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Adding effects
Electric violins are a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology, offering violinists a unique experience. They are accessible to players of all levels, from beginners to professionals. The PZ (piezoelectric) pickups are pivotal in converting the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal, which can be amplified or recorded.
Effects pedals can be used to add a variety of sound effects to your electric violin setup. To connect your electric violin to an effects pedal, you will need to use a jack cable to connect your violin to the input jack of the effects pedal. Then, use a second jack cable to connect the effects pedal to your amplifier. Always ensure that the volume level is set to zero before plugging in or unplugging any equipment, including the effects pedal, to protect your equipment and your ears.
There are many different types of effects pedals available, offering a wide range of sounds and effects. Some common effects pedals used with electric violins include loop pedals, delay, distortion, and reverb. You can also use multi-effects pedals, which offer a range of different effects in a single unit.
If you're using an iPhone, you can use an iRig to create an infinite number of effects without the need for pedals or complicated amplifier setups. The iRig, in combination with apps like ToneStack, allows you to enable preset setups with specific volume, distortion, and effects with a single click.
Additionally, DI boxes can be used as an intermediary between your electric violin and a mixing deck to solve impedance problems and provide optimal electrical compatibility.
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Frequently asked questions
The bare minimum setup for an electric violin is the violin itself, a bow, and an amplifier. You can plug the violin directly into the amplifier using a jack cable.
You might also want to use an effects pedal, a preamp, and a mixing deck. If you want to practice in silence, you can use mini-amps and headphones.
To connect your electric violin to an amplifier, simply use a jack cable. To connect to a mixing deck, use two jack cables: one to connect the electric violin to the input jack of a DI box, and another to connect the output jack of the DI box to the mixing deck.
It is recommended to use a bass guitar amplifier rather than an electric guitar amplifier to stay within the frequency range of the electric violin.
Some recommended accessories include a Fishman pickup, a Fishman Loudbox Mini, and a Boomerang 3 Phrase Sampler for looping.
