The benefits of learning to play the violin are well-documented. From improving a player’s memory and attention span to enhancing their sensory development and social skills.
What many don’t know is whether an electric violin offers any advantages over its acoustic counterpart. Interestingly, it does. The best electric violins open up a whole new sound world that players can explore. With the freedom to tune volume, tone, and other sound effects, you’re able to create exceptional and tailor-made music.
If you’ve been thinking about getting one of these instruments, we’re here to help. Below, we’ve reviewed the most sought-after electric violins. We have also included an in-depth buying guide and answered the most popular questions relating to electric violins.
What are Electric Violins?
The main feature that makes an electric violin different from an acoustic one is how it produces sound.
With an acoustic model, the instrument is fitted with a sound box responsible for amplifying the sound. Conversely, an electric violin does not contain any sound box. Rather, its sound is amplified using an external gadget such as a speaker or amplifier.
It’s crucial to note that an amplifier plays a very important role in the sound production of electric violins. Without it, the sound produced when you strike its strings is hardly audible. This is contrary to an acoustic violin which can be heard quite clearly without the aid of other tools.
Electric Violins vs Acoustic Violins
Wondering whether to choose an acoustic /electric violin? Well, the best way to approach it is to consider their differences. Here’s everything you need to know about acoustic & electric violins.
Body/Structure
The most obvious difference between an acoustic & electric violin lies in their construction.
An acoustic model is characterized by a hollow body. This is the part responsible for amplifying the vibrations of the strings.
On the other hand, an electric violin has a solid structure that has to be plugged into an amplifier so that sound can be heard. In summary, the one thing that differentiates an acoustic & electric violin is their sound amplification systems.
As mentioned earlier, another structural difference between these instruments is the presence of a sound box. An acoustic model has one whereas an electric violin doesn’t.
The sound box ensures that sound can be heard the minute the acoustic violins are played. But in the case of electric violins, they often have to be plugged into an amplifier to produce audible sound.
Sound Transmission and Production
Another element that makes an acoustic & electric violin different is the manner in which their sound is transmitted.
In an acoustic violin, the part responsible for sound transmission is the bridge. You’ll usually find this element on the violin’s body, where it’s supported by the pressure of the strings. This bridge is what transmits or channels sound from the strings’ vibration to the sound box where it’s amplified.
Conversely, an electric violin works by re-transcribing or transforming the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal. This audio signal is then sent to the amplifier. The element responsible for this sound transformation is a pickup, which is housed in the bridge.
Electric violins can have one or more pickups to carry out this process. In fact, the number of pickups present and the type of bridge have an impact on the quality of sound produced.
Sound Volume
If you’ve ever owned an acoustic model, then you know just how loud it can be. Even if you add a mute gadget to muffle the sound, it will still be a bit loud.
This is where an electric violin has the upper hand. Here, you can choose to connect your instrument to a headset. This then allows you to listen to the music you’re playing on your own, without it being heard by the public.
Strings
Another aspect that differentiates an acoustic & electric violin entails the number of strings.
In a traditional violin (acoustic), you will find only four strings: G, D, A, and E. However, modern-day electric instruments can have more than four strings. In a 5-stringed electric violin, there’ll likely be an additional C string- typically used on violas (see our violins vs violas guide).
Music Genre Applications
Given the structural differences between these instruments, it’s not surprising that these violins produce different sounds.
Sure, you can try to achieve a classical sound by incorporating small effects in your electric violin. But if you're looking to play classical music, an acoustic violin is your best bet.
On the other hand, an electric violin lets you add a multi-effect pedal. This element makes it possible to enhance or transform the resulting sound. As a result, electric violins can be used to play different music genres, ranging from rock to jazz, metal, and pop.
Buying Guide for an Electric Violin
There are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind before picking an electric violin. These are:
Playing Ability
One factor you should consider when buying a new electric violin is your skill level.
For instance, if you’re a beginner, then you’ll benefit from an electric violin tailored for new violinists. Such an instrument will have unique features like a lightweight design that makes it easy to wield and handle.
Size
Just as is the case with acoustic violins, electric violins come in a wide range of sizes. The most popular options for adults are the ¾ or 4/4 (full-size). However, younger players should go for something much smaller like a ½-sized violin for kids.
Question is, how do you determine the best violin size that suits you? Well, one metric that a lot of players use is arm length. There are two specific measurements you should take:
- Neck to wrist - this indicates the most suitable violin size for a player
- Neck to the middle of the palm - this shows the biggest size of the violin you can go for
Here’s a chart to guide you further:
Arm Length | Recommended Violin Size |
|---|---|
14 in | 1/16 |
15 in | 1/10 |
16 in | 1/8 |
18.5 in | 1/4 |
20 in |
1/2 |
22 in |
3/4 |
23 in |
4/4 |
Fingerboard
The fingerboard is one of the most crucial elements of any new electric violin. Usually made of wood, it’s the long, thin, wooden section that makes up the neck of this instrument. As such, it’s responsible for holding the strings in position.
What you’ll want to pay attention to is the material used to make the fingerboard. It can make the violin look more stylish while also providing a comfortable platform to place your fingers.
Number of Strings
Traditionally, acoustic violins have always had 4 strings.
Contrary to this, electric violins aren’t restricted by the rules that apply to acoustic models. Thanks to this, you may find them having either 5 or 6 strings. But the most popular electric instruments are those that contain either 4 or 5 strings.
Chinrest
Though an accessory, it’s also wise to check the quality of the chinrest that comes with your violin.
For those new to the string instrument world, the chinrest is that section of the violin that’s placed under the chin. The idea is to enable you to position your jaw and head correctly so you can play more comfortably.
These chinrests come in an array of shapes and styles so you’ll need to pick one that fits your style. With regards to materials, most of them are made of ebony. But, it’s not unusual to find some that are made from other materials like the Cecilio 4/4 CEVN-2BK that has a mother of pearl inlay chinrest.
Tailpiece
The tailpiece is the section found at the base of your electric violin. Its primary role is to anchor the strings in position while connecting them to the violin’s body.
The best electric violin will have a tailpiece that is tough and string. This is crucial to enable the tailpiece to put up with the tension applied to the strings.
Based on this, the most preferred material of choice is ebony. But, it’s not unusual to find some electric violins having carbon fiber tailpieces.
Body Material
An electric violin is made up of different materials for its various sections.
The top, which is where the soundholes or “F-holes” are drilled, is usually made of spruce. Spruce is the most preferred option because it has a high density. This allows a luthier to shave it to their preferred thinness without jeopardizing integrity.
For the back/bottom, and ribs - which form the sides - are typically made of solid maple. As is the case with spruce, maple is also quite dense and strong. A maple body build also helps in conducting sound.
In recent times though, some manufacturers have resorted to materials like carbon fiber to make electric violins.
The concept behind this is to create musical instruments that have similar sound quality but with better durability. A carbon fiber violin is immune to the problems that a maple body construction faces like warping.
Weight
In addition to the physical dimensions, you’ll also want to account for your violin’s weight. Hauling a violin all day long and propping it up can be very tiring if the instrument is heavy.
Want to play your violin for an extended period without getting overly fatigued? Then consider going for the best electric violin that's also lightweight. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean buying a flimsily made electric violin. It should also be sturdy and durable.
Power
If you want to play the acoustic version, all you have to do is position it correctly and start plucking the strings.
But, playing the best electric violin is a far cry from this. In this case, you need to get batteries and place them in the battery slot on your violin. Alternatively, ensure that the violin is plugged into a power source and amplifier so it can generate sound.
Therefore, the power source is another crucial factor you should account for when picking an electric violin. Whether it’s the batteries or an easily-accessible power outlet, you’ll want to ensure that you have everything you need before you start playing.
Extra Features
Do you plan to carry your electric violin for long distances? If you do, then you’ll want to look for the best electric violin with a portable case. Check out our guide with recommendations of the best violin cases.
Similarly, you should consider the duration you’ll spend playing your electric violin per session. For long practice sessions, an accessory like a shoulder rest really comes in handy.
On the same note, consider your level of playing. If you’re a beginner, you could benefit from a well-stocked silent violin that comes with everything you need to start playing. This entails a bow, rosin, duster cloth, and music stand just to mention a few.
Accessories
Trying to find the best electric violin is hard enough. But an electric violin won’t produce high-quality sound unless it’s equipped with a couple of other accessories. Here are a few other tools you should consider getting:
- Amplifier - this is the element responsible for strengthening the electrical signal from the pickup so that the resulting sound is heard more clearly.
- Headphones - the best electric violins often include headphones. These allow you to turn your instrument into a silent violin by playing it quietly. However, only a few violins are designed to be played in this manner. A good example is the Yamaha SV-200 Silent Violin
- Pickup - this is the part that converts your violin’s string vibrations into a digital signal. If you want the sound to be elevated, all you need to do is connect the pickup to the amplifier
Top Brands
While not as important as other factors, you may also want to consider the brand that you’re buying from. Some of the best electric violin brands are:
- Stagg - if you want a reliable but cheap electric violin, Stagg is the manufacturer to turn to.
- Yamaha - this brand is known for producing some of the best electric violins and quality musical instruments in general. When it comes to violins, Yamaha is particularly revered for its silent violin series that can be plugged into an amp or connected to a headset for quiet practice.
- Zeta - this is a more diversified brand that creates both acoustic and electric violins.
- Cecilio - if you’re searching for a beginner electric violin, Cecilio is the brand to go for. Their instruments are user-friendly and affordable.
Reviews of the Best Electric Violins
1. Barcus Berry 4-String Violin
The Barcus Berry comes in the traditional shape of an acoustic violin. It’s also among the most expensive acoustic-electric violins in our review. However, it has some pretty unique features that make it well worth the price tag.
First off, the gorgeous violin is hand-carved in a prominent Romanian violin manufacturing studio. Here, each and every element is carved carefully and elegantly by some of the most experienced artisans in the industry.
A quick glance at the Barcus Berry 4-string electric violin outfit reveals that it’s designed to very high-quality standards. This explains why it has a spruce top with the back and sides constructed using solid maple. The bridge is also made of German maple, further enhancing the violin’s durability.
Another reason why this violin is regarded as one of the best is the fact that it comes in three different colors. If you’re keen on aesthetics, you’ll be happy choosing from a piano black, metallic green, pink and red-berry burst. For the price, you’ll also get several accessories. These include a soft canvas case for easier transportation, a color-matching bow, and rosin.
Pros
Cons
Have you been searching for a professional electric violin outfit that has all the bells and whistles? If you have, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better model than the Electric Violin Bunnel Edge Outfit.
One of its most outstanding traits is the fact that it includes every accessory you need to get started.
Do you want a mini amp that can amplify the sound signal; hence making it more audible? Or, would you rather have a silent violin that lets you play quietly and only listen to the sound via headphones? Whichever route you choose, the Kennedy Violins brand has got you covered.
They’ve included a mini amp that aids in sound amplification. This instrument is also equipped with a headphone jack, meaning you can connect it to a headset. This makes it the best electric violin for silent practice.
There are a couple of other accessories included in this package. These include the Piezo active pick-up, ¼-inch output cable, the Giuliani bow, and a well-constructed carrying case. This case boasts features like bow holders, a hygrometer, zippers, velour lining, and velcro straps.
The Bunnel Edge violin doesn’t disappoint when it comes to sound quality. It generates a crisp and clear tone and offers the best amplification.
This violin even has high and low-tone sliders to help you adjust the tone accordingly. The volume can also be regulated either directly on the instrument or using the mini amp included.
Pros
Cons
Want to learn how to play the violin? If you do, the Yamaha Electric YEV104NT is ranked the best electric violin for beginners.
This electric violin has several features that impressed us, one of which is its design. It comes in a choice of two colors: natural and black.
Whichever one you choose, the violin looks elegant and it’s light enough to carry around. Its visual appeal is not surprising considering its makers used 6 different kinds of wood for its build.
We also like that the base of the violin has a similar shape to what’s found on acoustic models. This makes it easier for a violinist to transition from an acoustic violin to an electric one.
Another reason why we consider the Yamaha YEV104NT among the best electric violins is how beautifully it plays. It produces a natural resonant sound once it’s connected to an amplifier.
Though this violin has high-quality sound, it's crucial to note that it can't be played quietly. Yamaha has another line of silent violin instruments, and the YEV10NT is not among them.
Pros
Cons
The Kinglos 4/4 Silent Violin is in our opinion the best electric violin for the money.
This instrument comes in at a great price (click check price below), and is way more affordable than other models. Kinglos actually makes violins for beginner, as well as advanced and professional violins for expert players. The specific unit we’re reviewing here is more suited for advanced players.
Also crucial to note is the quality of materials used for this violin’s construction. The violin’s body is hand-carved using spruce while the fingerboard, pegs, and chinrest are all made of ebony.
These materials work nicely together with a carbon fiber tailpiece, resulting in a highly durable instrument.
Despite its low price tag, this violin comes with a handy selection of accessories. The electric violin outfit comprises a violin case, aux cable, bow, shoulder rest, strings’ set, and an extra bridge.
Pros
Cons
If you’ve been a violinist for a while, then you’ve probably noticed that the majority of these instruments come in a wooden tone.
If you don’t want to go with the norm, consider the Stagg EVN X-4/4 MBL that comes in stunning blue color. The metallic blue hue certainly makes a bold statement on any stage.
Aesthetics aside, this electric violin delivers sound too. The solid maple body conducts sound beautifully, allowing it to be heard clearly. Besides, it has tone and volume controls so you can make adjustments as you see fit.
We also like that Stagg has included everything you need to start playing. The package includes a soft case for easier portability, rosin, bow, and 9V battery. You also get a pair of stereo headphones in case you want to use it as a silent electric violin.
Pros
Cons
FAQs
What is the best amp for electric violin?
The Pyle 30-Watt Vamp Series is a pretty good amplifier for electric instruments like violins and guitars. It’s revered for its crisp, overdrive channels that facilitate the production of powerful sound.
Better yet, this amp has a variety of knobs, giving you maximum control of the sound quality. These include bass, mid, treble, and volume knobs.
Is electric violin easier?
There’s no one instrument that’s easier to play than the other. However, there are a few areas where electric violins do particularly well. These include:
Recording music
An electric violin is easier to use for music recording. This is because it allows you to plug it into your PC so the sound can be delivered directly to the recording software.
Learning to play
Generally, it’s easier to learn how to play an electric violin than an acoustic one. Certain aspects of playing that would make such a massive difference on an acoustic model don’t matter a lot on an electric violin.
Are electric violins good?
Yes, they are. Ultimately though, this depends on the kind of sound you’re looking to produce. If you prefer the sound of a classical violin, then go the acoustic way. If you want the ability to use effects like distortion, delay, and reverb, then an electric violin is the best choice.
Do electric violins need Rosin?
Yes, you do. Rosin is necessary when you’re playing any stringed instrument, and this goes for electric violins too. Without it, the hair of the bow would simply slither across the strings, failing to provide the friction needed to generate sound.
How much are electric violins?
Expect to pay a few hundred dollars for a premium-quality electric violin. A basic model can cost as little as $200. But if you want an electric violin that has all the bells and whistles, be ready to pay upwards of $1,000.
How do electric violins work?
An electric violin doesn’t work the same way as its acoustic counterpart. As stated earlier, an acoustic model relies on its hollow body to amplify the vibrations from the strings.
Conversely, an electric violin does not have a hollow body. Instead, it relies on a pickup to capture and transmit the subtle sound emitted by the strings’ vibrations. The slight sound is transmitted to an amplifier for further sound production.
Are electric violins silent?
Electric violins aren’t completely quiet. They are quieter because they don’t have the hollow resonating bodies of their acoustic counterparts. But this doesn’t necessarily mean that they don’t produce any sound.
If you don’t want to disturb your neighbors or family members while you play, consider choosing one with a solid body. Besides this, most electric violins include a mute button in case you want to be quieter.
Can you play an electric violin without an amp?
Yes, you can. In fact, the majority of people prefer to use electric violins as quiet practice instruments. If this is the case, then you only need to connect the violin to your headphones. You can opt to get a headphone amp for powering them but they aren’t necessary.
How to set up an electric violin
Setting up an electric violin requires a bit more work than an acoustic violin.
For starters, you’ll need a ¼” cable to connect the instrument to an amplifier. The amplifier should remain unplugged initially.
So the first thing you should do is to connect the cable to the input jack on your electric violin. Wait until you hear a snap sound to know that it’s well-plugged in. Take the other end of the cable and connect it to the input on your amplifier.
Inspect the volume knob on your violin, and turn it to the highest setting. Finally, you can switch on your amplifier and start playing your violin.
Are electric violin strings the same as acoustic?
For the most part, yes, they are the same. However, things may be different depending on the electric violin you’re buying.
In some cases, the manufacturer provides specific instructions regarding the kind of strings that can be used with the electric instrument. Oftentimes, the most recommended are the all-metal strings. So it’s good to confirm with the manufacturer before you try installing acoustic strings on your electric violin.
Conclusion
Have you been looking to invest in the best electric violins? If you have, there are a few things you should consider first. These include the material, number of strings, power, weight, and the range of accessories provided.
One instrument that strikes a great balance between performance and durability is the Barcus Berry Electric Violin. It has a striking resemblance to a traditional violin, including the 4-string design. This makes it super easy to transition to an electric violin.
If you’re picky when it comes to the instruments’ color, you’ll be happy to learn that this violin comes in four different colors. And though it’s pricey, it boasts a sturdy construction and high sound quality to back up the price.
