Have you mastered all the tricks that a starter violin has? If you have, you might be looking to upgrade to a more advanced musical instrument.

Generally, intermediate violins cost a couple of hundred dollars more than beginner models. But, they also feature a more sturdy build and better tonal qualities.

If you’re not certain of what to look for in your next violin, we’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve provided a detailed guide to the best intermediate violins. Let’s dig in:

Reviews of the Best Intermediate Violins

1. Cremona SV-175 Premier Student Violin Outfit

The Cremona SV-175 is one of the most popular violin options among intermediate and professional players. This is not surprising given its modest pricing and killer design.

Available in different sizes, this violin comes equipped with prelude strings. These are among the most recommended violin strings by experts and educators. 

You will also notice the Swiss-style ebony pegs that are fitted to perfection. Not to mention, this musical instrument has a composite tailpiece, which translates to a fairly lightweight violin. This tailpiece also contains four fine tuners, enabling you to tune your violin easily.

Overall, we like that the Cremona SV-175 has a quality workmanship. This is thanks to the solid maple body, ebony fingerboard and ebony fittings.

The cherry on top is that it comes with a couple of accessories. These include a Brazilwood bow and Travelite oblong case with an integrated hygrometer.

2. Cecilio CVN-500 Solidwood Ebony Fitted Violin

Have you been searching for a well-equipped violin outfit that suits intermediate violinists? If you have, look no further than the Cecilio CVN-500. 

Right off the bat, you’ll fall in love with this violin’s design which is hand-carved from top to bottom. For the top, Cecilio used solid spruce and flamed maple for the back and sides. The entire violin is then finished using a gorgeous satin antique varnish alongside inlaid purfling. 

The Cecilio CVN-500 not only looks the part but it also plays incredibly well. It’s equipped with D’Addario Prelude Strings, which are revered for their rich sound. 

And as we mentioned earlier, this musical instrument comes with everything you need to play. The accessories include two Brazilwood bows, an adjustable shoulder rest, a lesson book, hard shell case, Cecilio chromatic tuner with metronome. 

With such a wide range of attachments, it also makes for a great beginner violin.

3. Kennedy Violins Louis Carpini G2 Violin Outfit

Another musical instrument that’s highly recommended for intermediate violinists is the Louis Carpini G2 Violin Outfit. Though it’s a tad pricey, it has exceptional violin features; hence, worth checking out.

The first thing we like about it is that it comes in several sizes: 1/8 to a full-size model. Thanks to this, you’re able to choose one that fits your playing style and size. We also like that the violin is shipped ready to play. So you won’t end up wasting time assembling any part. 

Construction is another reason that makes this among the best advanced violins. It comprises a hand carved solid spruce top, flamed maple back, custom-fit bridge, and ebony purfling. 

We were particularly impressed with its ebony fittings, that is, pegs, chinrest and fingerboard. And for ease of tuning, Kennedy Violins incorporated four fine tuners. 

In addition, this intermediate violin has one of the largest selection of accessories. Inside the package, you’ll find D’Addario prelude strings, rosin, Giuliani bow, and an exemplary violin case. The case has enough room for a violin, four bows, a shoulder rest, rosin and tuners.

4. Cremona SV-500 Premier Artist Violin Outfit

Searching for the best intermediate violin with an attractive design? The Cremona SV-500 Premier Artist Violin Outfit is exactly what you need. 

It comprises a spruce top and a solid maple body. What makes it stand out is the clear, transparent varnish that does a superb job of highlighting the straight-grained wood. This varnish is even shaded a bit, which gives the violin a vintage vibe.

As if that’s not enough, the Cremona SV-500 is supplied with cutting-edge attachments. The first of these is an oblong-shaped case lined with rigid foam to offer utmost protection. 

The case has a generous capacity to accommodate your violin, a hygrometer and up to four bows. Other accessories include a deluxe Brazilwood bow and a quality violin chinrest with a Stradivarius style. 

5. D Z Strad Model 220

Don’t mind splurging on a state-of-the-art intermediate violin? If so, you should consider the D Z Strad Model 220.

The musical instrument we’re reviewing here is a 4/4 size. However, it’s available in six other sizes, which makes it easy to find one that suits you. 

More importantly, the Model 220 is constructed with high-quality wood. The top is made of Engelmann Spruce, a wood species that hails from North America. As for the back and sides, they’re all made from maple, guaranteeing maximum durability. 

Factor in the Dominant strings integrated into the violin, and you end up with a warm and round tone that’s sure to impress your audience. 

Another thing we love is that the D Z Strad Violin Outfit comes with premium accessories. You get a Brazil wood bow, case, rosin and high-quality shoulder rest.

Beginner vs Intermediate vs Professional Violins

Violins can be classified into different categories based on their size, type and features. But a lesser known approach is to categorize them based on players’ skill sets. In that regard, we can divide them into beginner, intermediate and professional violins.

Important to note is that the differences between these violins aren’t very obvious. In fact, it’s not until you upgrade to a higher-level instrument that you’ll be able to notice these variations. 

By then, you’ll have mastered how your violin sounds and plays. This, in turn, makes it easier to distinguish them. 

To help you make an informed purchase decision, here are my thoughts on how beginner, intermediate and professional violins differ.

Beginner violins

One aspect that’s very common among beginner violins is that they’re made of cheaper-quality materials. The reason why luthiers do this is so that they can keep their price points low.

This way, beginner players have a wide range of affordable violins to pick from. 

That said, just because an instrument is described as a beginner violin doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s inferior. The sound produced by these musical instruments is pretty decent, giving a new violinist a chance to learn how violins work.

Intermediate violins

A distinct characteristic of intermediate violins is that they hit that sweet spot between fine craftsmanship and sound quality. Here, luthiers prefer to use stronger woods to improve the durability and tonal qualities of these instruments. 

Oftentimes, the kind of wood used to make an advanced violin enables its sound to resonate with greater depth. 

Another thing you’ll notice is an improvement in wood texture. With a beginner violin, you’ll likely encounter ones with a smooth lacquered finish. Conversely, the best intermediate violins sometimes have textured patterns to elevate their design. 

And thanks to technological progress, luthiers are able to use cheaper materials that still provide exceptional quality. As such, you don’t always have to spend a ton of money when upgrading to an intermediate violin.

Professional violins

Professional violins are unlike any other. They boast quality craftsmanship with a lot of them being hand-crafted from start to finish. 

When you look at a beginner violin, you may find some common errors like gaps between the panels. But with a professional violin, it’s very rare to encounter such mistakes as they’re designed with professionals in mind. 

Given their nature of build and high quality sound, it’s not surprising that a professional violin often has a hefty price tag. So if you’re looking for the best professional violins, be ready to spend a significant sum of money.

When to Upgrade to an Intermediate Violin

A common question that beginner violinists struggle with is figuring out the perfect time to upgrade. Well, here are some telltale signs that you should start your search for a high-quality intermediate violin:

Size

Do you experience a bit of discomfort playing because your current violin is too small? If you do, it’s probably time to switch to a more advanced instrument.

Skills

Most beginner violinists initially buy musical instruments to give them a try. If you’re past that point and are ready to commit to this activity, ensure you invest in a good intermediate violin.

Wear and tear

A worn out instrument can have a negative effect on its tonal quality and playability. This can be particularly problematic for intermediate and professional players who practice on the regular. So if your violin is too worn out, don’t shy away from upgrading to a new intermediate violin.

Types of Violins

Once you’ve determined that it’s the right time to upgrade, the next decision you’ll need to make is choosing between acoustic/ classical and electric violins. Here’s a quick breakdown of each model:

Classic vs Electric

Classic and electric violins are a far cry from each other. This structural difference is what causes the two musical instruments to work differently. 

A classic violin has a hollow body, which is what allows it to amplify the sound produced through the strings’ vibrations. 

Conversely, an electric violin is characterized by a solid and minimalist body. It also has a built-in pickup responsible for sound amplification. 

When you were buying your first violin, you probably weren’t very particular about the type of instrument to get. But now that you’re buying an intermediate violin, this is a crucial factor to consider. 

Think about the kind of music you like to play and how easy it is to work with each one. With an acoustic/classic model, you’ll be able to get a warm and well-rounded tone. This makes it perfectly suited for classical and folk music. 

On the other hand, an electric violin tends to produce a bright, raw sound. This is why it’s the most preferred for rock and jazz music. 

How to Choose the Right Intermediate Violins

There are a few more factors you should consider when buying intermediate violins. They include:

Tone and Sound

If you’ve decided to buy an intermediate violin, then one of the most important factors to check is tone and sound. 

The best intermediate violin ought to have a higher quality of sound than beginner violins. Specifically, it should have a uniform tone across all four strings. Similarly, it should sound clearer and produce sound with greater depth. 

While you’re examining the instrument’s sound, pay attention to its playability as well. Your new violin ought to respond well when you start using advanced bowing techniques

Construction

Sound performance aside, the construction of intermediate violins matters too. Good intermediate violins typically have nicely figured solid tonewoods. This makes them more durable while also enhancing the quality of the resulting sound. 

One thing you’ll notice about highly-rated instruments is that they’re made from different types of wood. Most violin brands like to use spruce for the top and maple for the back and sides before incorporating an ebony fingerboard. 

Size

Is size the main reason for upgrading to an intermediate violin? If it is, then this should be among the first factors that you consider. 

All violins come in eight common sizes: 4/4, 3/4, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/10, and 1/16. For intermediate level, you’ll likely be using the ½, ¾ or 4/4. The best size violin is one that feels comfortable while facilitating an easier playing experience. 

To determine this, experts recommend getting an estimate of the length of your hand (measuring from the neck to the wrist). Once you have this measurement, use the following chart to guide you:

Weight

Violins typically weigh anything between 350 and 700 grams. The bigger the size of the violin, the more it weighs. 

Do keep in mind that the number of accessories also influences its overall weight. For instance, if you’ve added a ton of attachments, then your violin will be a tad heavier than other models. In such instances, it helps to have a violin case to make transportation and storage easier. 

Music genre

Some intermediate players decide to specialize in different music genres. If this is the reason you’re upgrading, then you’ll want to pick a violin suited for that genre. 

For instance, most acoustic violins are suitable for classical music. But, if you’re planning to concentrate on more contemporary music genres - like rock or jazz - then look for an intermediate electric violin. 

Bow 

When you were a beginner, you only wanted a bow that you could play with. Now that you’ve become an advanced player, you’ll want a bow that can do more than that. It should be durable and capable of withstanding advanced bowing techniques. 

A smart choice is to invest in a violin outfit that includes a great violin bow. This way, you’re guaranteed of getting a bow designed for intermediate or professional players. And you can save money in the process too.  

Accessories

When you were starting out, you probably didn’t have enough to buy a ton of accessories. But now that you’re an intermediate player, accessorizing your instrument can take your playing experience to the next level. Here’s a list of accessories we recommend for intermediate players:

• Fine tuners - don’t like the fine tuner that came with your beginner violin? Well, now is the time to upgrade them. You’ll want to look for ones that simplify your tuning process without adding a ton of weight to your instrument. 
• Violin strings - it’s always good to have a spare set of violin strings. Look for strings that help to improve your violin’s sound quality.
• Shoulder rest - if you’re committed to advancing your violin playing skills, then be sure to invest in a shoulder rest. This accessory sits on the violin’s back and it moves the musical instrument closer; hence, making it comfortable to play.
• Rosin - another accessory that’s very important for intermediate players is rosin. Look for one that has a clear and subtle sound while providing a firm grip for easy applications. 

Brands

Are you torn between two or more options? Well, one thing that can help is checking the brand behind the instrument’s creation. On that note, here’s a list of the best intermediate violin brands:

• Cecilio - the one thing we love about Cecilio’s range of violins is that their designs are well thought out. The company relies on the best-quality wood, creating instruments that not only sound great but also last.
• D Z Strad - D.Z. Strad is one of the few violin manufacturers that meets the needs of both classical and modern violinists. 
  They produce all kinds of violins for players of different skill levels. So whether you’re looking for student violins or professional ones, you’re sure to find one that you like.
• Cremona - founded in 1989, Cremona is a fairly recent violin brand. What makes their violins exceptional is their easy playability. 
  We also like that their products are priced fairly. So whether you’re looking for an intermediate or professional violin, you don’t have to worry about spending a large chunk of money. 
• Kennedy - ranked one of the best violin brands, Kennedy offers violins for all levels. Whether you want to buy one for beginner, professional or intermediate players this company has got you covered. 
• That said, their products tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. So be ready to pay a hefty amount if you decide to buy a Kennedy violin. 
• Yamaha - mention any musical instrument, and chances are that Yamaha produces it. So when you buy a Yamaha violin, you can rest easy knowing that it’s created by a brand with a long and reputable track record. 
  Most of their violins have unique features like inlaid purfling, oil varnishes and premium Glaser bows. 
• Stentor - most of the companies we’ve looked at produce hand-carved intermediate violins. But, if you don’t mind buying a factory-produced model, then Stentor is your go-to violin brand. To ensure they’re providing the best violins, this firm conducts multiple control assessments at the factory before releasing them into the market. 

Price

When buying a beginner violin, you probably looked for the cheapest option you could find. But now that you’re an intermediate player, you should have more wiggle room in your budget. 

This will help you find a higher quality and more long-lasting musical instrument. The prices of most intermediate violins fall between $300 and $1,300. 

FAQs

Should I get an intermediate violin?

Yes, you should but only after you’ve gotten to the level of intermediate students. 

The most appropriate time to upgrade is when your current violin starts impeding your progress or skill development. Similarly, you’ll want to get a new violin if you outgrow your current one. 

If you’re buying the intermediate violin for your toddler, be sure to consult their violin teacher. They’ll advise you on the specific features to focus on so you can find an amazing violin.

What violins do professionals use?

Violins used by professionals have a top-notch design comprising premium grade materials and features. 

To be more specific, the wood used in these instruments’ construction is aged for longer. This not only enhances their durability but also the tone quality. Other violins - meant for beginner and intermediate players - are made from cheaper wood species. 

How much does an intermediate violin cost?

The cost of intermediate violins varies significantly, so it usually boils down to how much you’re willing to spend. 

You can get a good quality violin with as little as $350 as seen in the case of the Cremona SV 500. However, most intermediate violin brands price their instruments between $500 and $1300.

This price depends on multiple factors. For instance, a stand-alone intermediate instrument is often cheaper than a violin outfit. Similarly, a violin made of high-quality materials like spruce and maple typically comes with a hefty price tag. 

Who is an intermediate violin player?

An intermediate violinist is one who has one of these two traits: decent violin playing skills or excellent musicality. 

Allow me to explain. Can you extract a couple of music passages but end up sounding dull when you replicate it with your instrument? If yes, then you have decent skill but lack musicality. 

Are you able to put a lot of effort into playing but can’t quite master the technique needed to perform flawlessly? If yes, then you have good musicality but poor form.

If either of these two scenarios sound familiar, then you’re an intermediate player. Put simply; you’ve learned the basics of playing this musical instrument. But, there are a couple of areas that need refinement. 

Conclusion

Finding the best intermediate violins can be daunting. On one hand, you’re looking to upgrade to a more advanced instrument that plays and sounds better. On the other hand, you don’t want to end up with a violin that’s so sophisticated to play.

If you’re looking for one that’s in the middle ground, the Cremona SV-175 is a fantastic intermediate violin.

One of its most attractive features is its quality craftsmanship. It boasts an ebony fingerboard, solid maple body, solid spruce top and ebony fittings. These elements work well together, resulting in a powerful and refined tone. 

Another aspect that makes the Cremona SV 175 stand out is that it’s a well-stocked violin outfit. Included in the package are all kinds of accessories, ranging from a violin case to a brazilwood bow, fine tuner and more.