Molly Ayala
Electric violins are a great way to practice in silence at home or to plug into an amp or speaker to be heard at a live venue. There are many options available, including solid-body electric, acoustic-electric, and 5+ string options. When shopping for an electric violin, it is important to consider your budget and the type of electric violin that will best suit your needs. Online shops offer a wide range of electric violins, from inexpensive options under $500 to high-end violins priced at a few thousand dollars. It is recommended to read reviews, compare prices, and consider the sound quality and features that are important to you, such as volume knobs, tone knobs, and EQ settings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To practice in silence at home, to play with other musicians who use amps or speakers, to experiment with effects, to produce music, to seek a different tone, to play in a band |
| Number of strings | 5+ string options available |
| Acoustic/electric or solid body electric | Acoustic/electric violins are available for a more acoustic sound, but solid-body electrics are more common |
| Price | Basic acoustic violins can be purchased for a few hundred dollars, while a decent electric violin will cost $600 or more |
| Headphone jack | 1/8-inch (3.5mm) or 1/4-inch (6.3mm) jacks, or both |
| Volume and tone knobs | Some electric violins feature volume and tone knobs, and some even have treble and bass EQ knobs |
| Pickups | Passive pickups don't require a battery and produce a warm, rich, and natural sound, but they are susceptible to noise interference. Active pickups require a battery and use a built-in preamp to boost signals, resulting in a clearer and more consistent sound. |
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What You'll Learn
Electric violin price and quality
When shopping for an electric violin, there are a variety of options available, ranging from entry-level to more expensive, professional-grade instruments. The price of an electric violin can vary depending on factors such as brand, quality, and features.
Entry-level electric violins are typically more affordable and designed for beginners or those on a budget. For instance, the Yamaha YEV electric violin, NS WAV violin, and Auro by Aurora violins are all priced for the entry-level market. The GEWA Novita 3.0 is another affordable option, offering style and substance at a reasonable price. These violins often provide excellent value, combining quality and playability at a lower cost.
On the other hand, some electric violins are priced higher due to their brand reputation, craftsmanship, and advanced features. For example, the Wood Violins Stingray SVX electric violin, designed by pioneering electric violinist Mark Wood, offers excellent tone and versatility at a higher price point.
It's important to consider your needs and budget when deciding on an electric violin. If you're a beginner, an entry-level violin may be a suitable option to start your musical journey. More experienced players may want to invest in a higher-end model with enhanced sound quality and features.
Additionally, it's worth noting that some retailers offer free shipping, setup assistance, and returns, which can impact the overall value and convenience of your purchase. It is recommended to carefully inspect and test the violin before making a decision to ensure it meets your expectations in terms of quality and performance.
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Electric violin sound and utilities
Electric violins are a modern twist on the traditional acoustic violin, with a distinct sound that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. They are a good option for those seeking greater sound amplification and experimentation with a range of effects. The sound of an electric violin is produced by electronic output, which is then transferred through an audio cable into an amplifier or PA system.
The heart of an electric violin is its electronic components, specifically its pickups. There are two main types of pickups: piezoelectric and magnetic. Piezoelectric pickups are more common and capture the vibration of the strings directly, converting them into an electrical signal. Magnetic pickups are similar to those in electric guitars and are less common, offering a distinct sound. Some pickups don't require a battery and are called "passive pickups". They are favoured for producing a warm, rich, and natural sound, similar to an acoustic violin.
The number of strings on an electric violin can vary, with solid-body designs accommodating extra tension from additional strings. The typical setup includes a low C string for 5-strings, a low C and low F for 6, and a low C, F, and B♭ for 7. Electric violins may also feature semi-hollow" designs, providing some approximation of acoustic violin sound while reducing feedback susceptibility.
When it comes to amplification, most electric violinists use standard guitar amplifiers, as they are reliable and widely available. However, some violinists prefer the mellow tone of tube amps or digital PAs. Electric violins can also be connected directly to headphones for personal listening or practice.
The electric violin's adaptability makes it suitable for various genres, including jazz, pop, rock, and experimental music. It is an excellent choice for musicians seeking to explore new sonic possibilities and amplify their sound.
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Solid body vs acoustic-electric violins
When shopping for an electric violin, it's important to understand the differences between solid body and acoustic-electric violins. Electric violins, in general, are known to be cheaper than acoustic violins, with the former ranging from $500 to $3000, while the latter can cost millions.
Solid body electric violins differ from acoustic violins in that they have a solid structure, as opposed to the hollow body of an acoustic violin. This means that solid body violins require an amplifier to be heard, while an acoustic violin produces sound naturally through the vibration of its strings and the instrument body. The weight difference between the two is also significant, with a classical violin weighing about 480g, while electric violins tend to be heavier. It is important to consider the weight of an electric violin as a heavier instrument can lead to tension and tendonitis over time.
Solid body electric violins produce a rawer and sharper sound, which is often preferred in bands and rock music. The sound quality of a solid-body violin depends on the type of bridge, or pickup, and the number of sensors. Piezoelectric and magnetic sensors are commonly used to convert string vibrations into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to an amplifier.
On the other hand, acoustic-electric violins, also known as amplified violins, offer a more natural and resonant sound quality similar to classical violins. Acoustic-electric violins can be plugged into amplifiers or headphones, providing flexibility for practice and performance. While acoustic-electric violins may provide a more familiar playing experience, they can present challenges with feedback due to the resonance and vibrations of their hollow bodies.
In summary, solid body electric violins offer a unique sound, modern playing experience, and potential cost savings compared to acoustic-electric violins. Acoustic-electric violins more closely resemble classical violins in sound and playing experience but may require careful consideration regarding feedback and microphone placement. Ultimately, the choice between a solid body and an acoustic-electric violin depends on the player's preferences for sound, feel, and intended use.
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Electric violin design and features
The design and features of an electric violin depend on the type of violin and the manufacturer. There are two main types of electric violins: solid-body and acoustic-electric. Solid-body violins are the most common type, and they are designed to be plugged into an amplifier. Acoustic-electric violins, on the other hand, have hollow chambers that give them a more acoustic sound. Some violins are a combination of both types, offering the ability to play acoustically or through an amplifier.
When it comes to design, electric violins can vary significantly from traditional acoustic violins. They can have unique shapes, colours, and materials. Some electric violins have futuristic designs with LED lights or glow-in-the-dark features. Others may have a more classic look, resembling acoustic violins but with modern touches. The body of an electric violin is usually made of wood, but other materials such as carbon fibre or composite materials may be used.
The pickups and preamps are essential components of an electric violin. Pickups capture the vibration of the strings and convert them into electrical signals, which are then transmitted through the preamp and out to an amplifier or headphones. There are two main types of pickups: passive and active. Passive pickups do not require a battery and produce a warm, rich, and natural sound similar to an acoustic violin, but they may be more susceptible to noise interference. Active pickups, on the other hand, use a built-in preamp to boost signals, resulting in a clearer and more consistent sound with reduced noise interference.
Electric violins may also have additional features such as volume and tone knobs, EQ settings, and effects processors. Some violins allow you to plug in your headphones for silent practice, while others have built-in speakers or amplifiers. It's important to consider the number of strings you want, as electric violins can have the standard four strings or more, with some models offering up to seven strings.
When choosing an electric violin, it's essential to consider your budget. The price range for electric violins varies widely, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It's important to remember that cheaper violins may be made with lower-quality components, which can affect sound quality and durability. Reading reviews and doing thorough research can help you make an informed decision to find an electric violin that suits your needs and preferences.
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Where to buy an electric violin
There are a variety of shops and websites where you can buy an electric violin. If you are looking to shop in-person, The Long Island Violin Shop is an option. For those who prefer to shop online, there are several websites that offer electric violins, including:
- Fiddlershop, which offers free shipping on orders over $35 and a 45-day return policy.
- Kennedy Violins, which offers a curated selection of high-quality electric violins for musicians of all levels.
- Guitar Center, which offers the lowest prices and best selection of electric violins with free shipping on most orders.
- The Electric Violin Shop, which offers free shipping on orders over $99 within the lower 48 United States and expedited shipping to most countries.
- Amazon, which offers a variety of electric violins from different brands with free shipping on eligible orders.
Each website offers a range of electric violins to choose from, so you can compare prices and features to find the best option for you.
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Frequently asked questions
Some common reasons to get an electric violin include:
- Practising in silence at home through headphones.
- Playing with other musicians who use amplified instruments.
- Experimenting with effects like reverb, echo, delay, and distortion.
- Achieving a louder sound.
It's important to do your research and read reviews to find an electric violin that suits your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as sound quality, design, budget, and the type of electric violin (solid-body or acoustic-electric).
The price of an electric violin can vary widely depending on quality and features. While you can find cheaper options for under $500, they may be of lower quality and use cheap components. A good-quality electric violin typically starts at around $600. High-end electric violins can range from under $2,000 to $5,000 or more, which is still generally more affordable than high-end acoustic violins.
There are several online and physical stores that specialise in electric violins, such as Electric Violin Shop, Fiddlershop, and Kinglos Neo Classical Global Store. These stores offer a range of options from different brands and price points.
