Best Overall
Professional Violin
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Overall: 9/10
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Best Feature: Hand-carved from high-quality spruce and maple wood
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Professional
Acoustic Violin
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Overall: 9/10
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Best Feature : Natural solid maple back
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best Professional
Electric Violin
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Overall: 8/10
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Best Feature: Adjustable shoulder rest and chin rest with Onboard preamp and EQ
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TedScore™: 8/10
Do you want to take your music career to the next level? Then investing in the best violin is a must for you!
Whether you’re a solo player or part of an orchestra, choosing the right violin can make or break your music career.
This article will take you on a journey to discover everything you need to know about the best violin for professionals.
I’ll dive deep into the unique features that set professional violins apart from beginner violins when it’s time to upgrade, what to consider when purchasing, and the price range.
Plus, I’ve got a bonus section that covers essential accessories that every violinist needs to take their playing to the next level.
Don’t know where to start? No worries!
Check out our comprehensive best violins and accessories guide. I’ve researched for you and compiled a list of top-notch options to help you make the best decision.
So, if you’re a professional violinist or aspire to be one, here you can learn everything you need to find your perfect instrument and make beautiful music!
What Makes Violins for Professionals Unique?
Quality of their construction
These instruments are typically made from the finest quality tone woods, such as spruce and maple,
Which have been aged and carefully selected for their acoustic properties.
The wood is then carefully carved and shaped by hand, combining traditional
And modern tools to create a beautiful and functional instrument.
Playability
Designed to be extremely responsive and easy to play, allowing musicians to express themselves easily and precisely.
They are also highly customizable, with a wide range of options for tailpieces, bridges, strings, and other components that can be adjusted to meet the individual player’s needs.
Highly Priced
They’re often adorned with intricate carvings, inlays, and varnishes resulting from hours of painstaking work by skilled artisans.
They’re also highly collectable, with some vintage instruments selling for millions of dollars at auction.
The Sound of Professional Violins
It’s like a sweet and soothing lullaby for the soul. When you hear the bow glide across the strings, it’s as if you’re transported to another world filled with passion and beauty.
The notes seem to dance and swirl around you, each playing with precision and care.
The sound is powerful and delicate, like a butterfly floating in the breeze.
It’s no wonder the violin has been called the “queen of instruments” – its sound is enchanting.
When to Upgrade for a Professional Violin?
Your technique has surpassed your current violin’s capabilities. As you develop your skills, you may find that your current violin is holding you back.
A professional violin will have better quality materials and construction, leading to more responsive sound and easier playing.
You’re regularly playing in professional settings.
Whether performing in a concert hall or recording in a studio, a professional violin will give you the tone and playability you need to deliver a top-quality performance.
Your ears are craving a richer, more complex sound. Professional violins are finely crafted with premium materials, producing a more nuanced and complex sound. It may be time for an upgrade if you’re bored or uninspired by your current instrument’s sound.
Your current violin is physically uncomfortable to play.
If your violin doesn’t fit you well or causes you physical pain, it’s time to upgrade.
A professional violin can be customized to fit your body and playing style, making it easier and more comfortable to play for extended periods.
You’re ready to make a long-term investment. Professional violins are expensive but worth the investment if you continue playing and performing for many years.
A well-crafted instrument will retain its value and can even appreciate in value over time.
The Price Range of Professional Violins
You can find professional violins starting at around $2,000-$3,000. These instruments are typically made in factories and lack the detail and care that goes into handcrafted instruments.
They may also use lower-quality materials and have less resonance and projection than higher-priced options.
Moving up the price range, you can find handcrafted professional violins made by skilled luthiers using premium materials. These instruments can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the maker, age, and condition.
For example, a new violin made by a contemporary luthier may cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000, while a vintage instrument made by a renowned maker such as Stradivari or Guarneri can cost millions of dollars.
It’s worth noting that price alone is not always an indicator of quality. When evaluating a professional violin, you should consider factors such as playability, tone, and craftsmanship.
Things to Consider When Buying a Violin
One important factor is the reputation of the brand.
Different producers have their own quality standards, target markets, and selection of materials which can affect the price and sound of the instrument. Choosing a brand with a good reputation that produces high-quality violins is important.
Experienced luthiers who have been in business for a long time may offer better-finished products due to their experience and attention to detail.
Working with a teacher can also be helpful when choosing a violin, as they can suggest the best brands based on a student’s budget and playing experience.
The materials used in making a violin affect the tool’s sound, sturdiness, and longevity.
The quality of the wood used is a major factor in determining the cost of a violin. Professional violins, like Spruce or Maple, are typically made with high-quality woods and can range from $4,000 to $10,000.
Inspecting a violin before purchasing it is important to ensure it utilises quality and damage-free materials.
Ensuring the violin is made with quality materials is essential for a long-lasting and high-quality product. Some violins may use lower-quality materials, which can affect the sound and overall playability of the instrument.
When purchasing a violin, it is important to carefully consider the materials used to ensure that it meets your needs and expectations.
Violin makers must undergo special training to ensure their instruments are of outstanding quality. For instance, in Cremona, Italy, luthiers are renowned for producing high-quality violins. These artisans’ creativity and attention to detail set their violins apart from others.
In considering craftsmanship, Kennedy Violins is known for providing well-crafted violins with pre-rosined bows, a time saver.
They can fit instruments with independent-style fine-tuners upon request, adding to the convenience and overall quality of the violin. Understanding the craftsmanship of producing a high-quality violin can help professionals decide when to choose their next instrument.
It includes a violin, bow, case, shoulder rest, and rosin. The quality of these accessories can affect the price of the outfit, so it’s important to consider this when making a purchase.
It’s also worth considering the best violin brands when buying a violin outfit to ensure you get a quality instrument. By purchasing an outfit, you can ensure that you have all the necessary materials to start playing the violin, giving you a head start on your musical journey. Investing in a quality violin outfit will lead to a more positive playing experience and a longer-lasting instrument.A good guarantee should cover any repairs or replacements of parts and will help protect your investment. The length and coverage of contracts vary depending on the manufacturer, so it’s important to read the fine print carefully before making a purchase.
The 5 Best Acoustic Violins for Professional Players
Sky Guarantee Mastero Sound
This violin is truly a work of art, 100% hand-made by a master-level violin maker who put great care and attention into crafting it. With an antique finish and hand oil varnish, you can appreciate the craftsmanship that went into making this beautiful instrument.
Sky Guarantee Mastero Sound 4/4 Full Size Violin
FEATURES: -Natural solid maple back
-Solid, high-quality half-lined Brazilian wood bow
-Highly flamed 25 years dried solid spruce top
- Produce high-quality sound
- Complete accessories
- Beautiful tone
- None
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Vangoa Violin 1/2 Full Size Set
Crafted with precision and care, this beautiful instrument is made from high-quality materials that deliver a rich and resonant tone. It’s easy to play and produces a well-balanced sound that’s perfect for both classical and contemporary styles of music.
Vangoa Violin 1/2 Full Size Set
FEATURES: -Hand-carved from high-quality spruce and maple wood
-With durable ebony octagonal bow
-Complete violin kit
- Excellent violin sound enjoyment
- Comfortable and light weighted
- Complete accessories
- None
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Louis Carpini G2 Violin
The Louis Carpini G2 Violin is the top advanced violin in sizes from 1/8 through 4/4. Much more well-rounded than other violins, the warm tone and beautifully full resonance make it a top choice violin for the advancing violinist. Violin players love the rich sound and the gorgeous flaming on these violins.
Louis Carpini G2 Violin Outfit 4/4 Full Size
FEATURES: -Handcrafted with beautiful spruce wood
-100% genuine ebony fittings
-Completed with a warm amber-brown finish
- Complete outfit with high-quality accessories included.
- It has a warm voice and beautiful resonance
- None
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Lazzaro Zucchi Violin
The Louis Carpini G2 Violin is the top advanced violin in sizes from 1/8 through 4/4. Much more well-rounded than other violins, the warm tone and beautifully full resonance make it a top choice violin for the advancing violinist. Violin players love the rich sound and the gorgeous flaming on these violins.
Lazzaro Zucchi Violin
FEATURES: Solid carved wood
- 10-year-aged maple back and sides
-100% ebony fingerboard, pegs, fittings, and tailpiece
- Exceptional tonal quality
- Fine craftsmanship
- High-quality instruments
- Expensive
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
D Z Strad Model 220
It’s a stunningly crafted acoustic violin popular among professional players and enthusiasts. It is named after the renowned luthier D Z Strad, known for his exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
D Z Strad Model 220 (4/4 Full Size)
FEATURES:- The violin outfit package includes a case, bow, rosin, and shoulder rest.
-Englemann Spruce top with Maple back and sides
-Available in different sizes
- Warm tone
- Responsive playability
- Cost-efficient
- It's more delicate than other instruments
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
The 5 Best Electric Violins for Professional Players
Yamaha SV-200
Best BUDGET-FRIENDLY Electric Violins
Yamaha SV200 Concert Silent Violin, Brown
FEATURES: -Dual piezo pickups
-Ebony Fingerboard
-With one fine tuner for the E string
- Great tone
- Comfortable to play
- Good dynamic response
- Not good for beginners and intermediate
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Bridge Aquila Electric Violin
Easily linked to effects units, looping stations and recording devices, these instruments are perfect for your own entertainment and performance with no feedback.
Best For performance Electric Violins
Bridge Aquila Electric Violin, Black and Red
FEATURES: -Hollow moulded carbon and kevlar composite body
-Bridge proprietary pickup and preamp
-Designed from Thomastik dominant strings
- Available in different colours
- Smooth tone
- Complete accessories
- Expensive
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Stagg EVN
It’s a great choice for players who want to explore the world of electric strings without breaking the bank. Its sleek design, versatility, and portability make it an accessible and appealing option for a violin player.
Best INVESTMENT Electric Violins
Stagg EVN X-4/4 Series
FEATURES: -With a solid maple body
-With 4 fine tuners
-It features an internal headphone pre-amp
- Cost efficiently
- With a durable carrying case
- Convenient to bring
- More challenging to play
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Barcus Berry Vibrato-AE Electric Violin
It’s one of the unique stringed instruments that combines a violin’s traditional sound and technique with modern technology. It’s an electric violin that perfectly balances acoustic and amplified sound, making it a popular choice for performers and studio musicians.
Best Balance tone Electric Violin
Barcus Berry Vibrato-AE Electric Violin
FEATURES: -Fully hand-carved spruce top, maple back & sides
-Designed from Thomastik Alpha strings
-Guarneri-style chin rest
- Produce high-quality sound
- Easy to transport to gigs and rehearsals
- Suitable for a variety of genres and styles of music
- Requires regular maintenance
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
NS Design WAV5 Violin
It’s a modern, high-quality electric violin with a unique sound and sleek design. It’s designed to be versatile and user-friendly, making it a popular choice for musicians of all skill levels.
Best modern design Electric Violin
NS Design WAV5 Violin
FEATURES:-Adjustable shoulder rest and chin rest
-Onboard preamp and EQ
-Dual-mode pickup system
- Lightweight and good balance
- Fully adjustable
- Cost-effective
- It may take some time for musicians to learn
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Violin Maintenance and Care Guidelines
As a professional violinist, keeping your instrument in good condition is important to ensure it lasts for years to come and continues to produce beautiful music. Here are some maintenance and care guidelines to keep your violin in tip-top shape:
Clean your violin often with a microfiber cloth or duster. Use only cleaners and polishes made specifically for the violin and viola.
Consider carbon fiber cases for their strength and level of protection. Be mindful of the latches on the case, and stay away from latches without locks on them.
Wrap your instrument in a silk handkerchief or a leather cover to help protect it against changes in weather and humidity inside the case.
If the screw on your bow won’t tighten, don’t force it. Keeping your bow in good shape is as important as maintaining your instrument.
Never force your pegs during tuning, or you may break a string.
When putting on a new set of strings, only take one string off at a time. Having all of the strings off simultaneously can move the bridge and change the placement of the sound post.
Score the surface of a new rosin cake gently to release the rosin, and remember never to touch the horsehair on your bow because oils from your skin will damage the hair and take away its ability to grab the strings
Bonus: Important Accessories for Every Violin
Rosin
Pirastro Goldflex Rosin
FEATURES: -Comes in a handy case
-Contains gold powder
-Superior grip
- It gives a warm and bright tone
- Easy to use
- Cost-effective
- Sensitive to temperature
- Expensive
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Shoulder Rest
It provides comfort and allows the player to hold the instrument in the correct position. It’s important to choose a shoulder rest that is appropriate for the size of the violin, as a larger rest will cause strain on the arms and shoulders.
Material and padding should also be considered when choosing a shoulder rest, as some materials may cause discomfort during long practice sessions.
Kun Original 4/4
FEATURES: -Adjustable in three directions
-Non-slip feet
-Collapsible design
- Comfortable playing position
- Durable and long-lasting
- Compatible with most violins
- Limited size
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Music Stand
It’s necessary for reading sheet music while playing. When choosing a music stand, look for one that is adjustable and sturdy. It comes in various sizes, shapes, and materials, so it’s important to choose one that fits the needs and preferences of the violinist.
Titan Folding Violin or Viola Stand
FEATURES: -Adjustable neck and bow holder
-It comes with a soft case
-Lightweight and portable
- Durable and long-lasting
- Convenient to carry
- Secure hold
- Limited functionality
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Violin For Professionals
Summary
If you’re a professional violinist, you know that the right instrument can make all the difference. But with so many options, how do you find the best violin for you?
First and foremost, the best violin for professionals has to have superior sound quality and impeccable craftsmanship. This means investing time, money, and effort in research and considering all aspects that make a violin a perfect fit.
You’ll want to pick a violin with the right sound and feel that matches your playing style. But that’s not all! You should also consider the material quality, brand reputation, craftsmanship, and warranty offered.
So what are you waiting for?
Start to choose the perfect violin for you. Don’t forget to comment down below your feedback.
And take a look at my new article reviewing Rosin…
While I appreciate the effort to distinguish violins suited for professional play, I find the classification somewhat oversimplified. The true essence of a professional violin extends far beyond its price tag or construction quality. What about the violin’s age, history, and the specific luthier? These aspects can significantly impact its sound and playability. Would love to see a more in-depth discussion on these factors.
Absolutely agree! The story behind a violin can totally affect its feel and the connection the player has with it. I’ve seen violins from lesser-known luthiers outplay more expensive ones simply because of their unique sound signature.
This list of acoustic violins seems solid, but I’m wondering how they compare to similarly priced alternatives. Has anyone tried these models against other brands?
Those electric violin names sound like they could double as names for racehorses or fancy cocktails, haha.
Hey Nadine Galea, great article! Quick question: when talking about upgrading to a professional violin, what’s the one piece of advice you’d give to someone who’s kinda on the fence about it? I’ve been playing for a few years now and thinking it might be time for an upgrade, but the price tags are pretty intimidating. Thanks!