Best
Overall Electric Violin Amp
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Overall: Includes a built-in loop effect, microphone, auxiliary input out, flanger outputs, slap echo effects, and Bluetooth connectivity.
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Best Feature: Has a remarkable sound
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TedScore™: 7/10
Best
Budget Option Electric Violin Amp
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Overall: Include microphone input and Bluetooth connectivity.
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Best Feature: Great option for anyone who wants a high-quality, portable, powerful amplifier.
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TedScore™: 6/10
Best
for Practice Electric Violin Amp
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Overall: Has USB plug-and-play feature built-in for recording
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Best Feature: With tube-amp tones for different sounds and feel
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TedScore™: 8/10
Finding the Best Amplifier For Electric Violin feels like discovering the perfect tune for your musical adventure. At the beginning of my journey with electric violins, the sheer variety of amplifiers out there seemed daunting—picking one that boosts your sound and fits your playing style is key.
From the Yamaha THR3OII to the Fishman Loudbox Artist, some amps cater to beginner musicians and experienced performers. The right amp can transform your electric violin’s tone, whether you’re practicing at home or performing on stage.
So, if you’re ready to amplify your musical experience, keep reading. This article will help you navigate the top options and find your ideal amplifier. Let’s make your electric violin sing its best tune together!
The 5 Best Electric Violin Amps Today
Fishman Loudbox Artist Amplifier
The Fishman Loudbox Artist Amplifier is a popular acoustic guitar amplifier designed to provide high-quality sound amplification for acoustic guitars and musicians. It is a versatile and portable amplifier in various settings, from small venues to large stages. Weighing 11.3kg, this compact amp is reasonable for a professional amp, although it may cause an arm ache if you plan on walking to gigs. With 120 watts of bi-amplified acoustic power, it’s more than enough for most medium-sized or large venues.
DESIGNED FOR: Beginners
FEATURES: Includes a built-in loop effect, microphone, auxiliary input out, flanger outputs, slap echo effects, and Bluetooth connectivity.
OTHER INFO: Has a remarkable sound
Fishman Loudbox Artist Amplifier
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Purest sound quality and incredible features
- Heavy
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™.
Wood Violins Electric Violin Amplifier
The Wood Violins amp is a Mark Wood amplifier specifically tailored to electric violin players. Its sound quality and features perfectly cater to the needs of electric violinists, making it a valuable tool for them. It’s perfect for violinists who play in small venues and need a separate, powerful amp from their bandmates’ amplification and acoustic amps. It’s also a great practice amp for violinists, especially those who play rock music, thanks to its various effects.
DESIGNED FOR: All levels
FEATURES: With two-band equalizes, distortion, echo effects, and a headphone jack
OTHER INFO: Accurately projects the instrument's higher and lower register without any unwanted feedback
Wood Violins Electric Violin Amplifier
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Suitable to play in small venues
- Give you such great tone, higher wattage
- A lot of compact amplifiers leave out the equalizer
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™.
Fishman Loudbox Mini
The Fishman Loudbox Mini is a compact and portable amplifier that features a high-quality Ted Fishman speaker. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with 60 watts of power, making it ideal for small venues and personal use. The Loudbox Mini features two channels, one for your instrument and one for a microphone, which makes it the perfect amp for singer-songwriters or small bands playing backing tracks.
DESIGNED FOR: Beginners
FEATURES: Include microphone input and Bluetooth connectivity.
OTHER INFO: Great option for anyone who wants a high-quality, portable, powerful amplifier.
Fishman Loudbox Mini
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Affordable
- Heavy
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™.
Yamaha THR30II
It’s particularly well-suited for rock musicians, guitarists and bassists who want a versatile, portable amp with a wide range of customizable tones and effects. The wireless and recording features also make it ideal for musicians who wish to use digital tools like Garage Band or Logic Pro.
DESIGNED FOR: Musicians who wish to use digital tools like Garage Band or Logic Pro
FEATURES: Has USB plug-and-play feature built-in for recording
OTHER INFO: With tube-amp tones for different sounds and feel
Yamaha THR30II
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- With essential accessories for effects of 15 Guitar amps, a desktop amp, three bass amps
- Designed as an electric guitar amp
- Battery power, great amp, excellent for playing in small venues
- Bit expensive
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™.
Fender Champion 40 – 40-Watt
This is a powerful amplifier that’s well-suited for use with Fender electric violins, providing a clear and dynamic sound that can be easily customized to suit the player’s preferences.
It’s another compact, portable amplifier that will surpass your expectations. Together with different options for amp voicings and distortion styles, it gives you the tonal flexibility to play your violin in any style you like.
DESIGNED FOR: Beginners
FEATURES: Complete accessories
OTHER INFO: Store extra cables or other small accessories with the open back cabinet.
Fender Champion 40 – 40-Watt
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Cool effects like reverb, delay, and echo
- Convenient to us
- It makes an unpleasant pop sound when powering off.
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™.
How to Choose an Electric Violin Amp
To choose the best amplifier for violin, consider the amp’s size and power, the type of sound and effects you prefer on the acoustic instrument, and the portability and durability of the amp. Also, check the best amp for compatibility with your device and any additional equipment you plan to use.
1. Your Preferred Output Volume
It’s recommended to find a loud enough volume to be heard over other instruments or in a live setting but not too loud that it causes discomfort or damage to the ears. It’s essential to use proper hearing protection and adjust the volume accordingly. Additionally, experimenting with different volume levels can help players find the best sound for their instrument and playing style.
2. Do You Need Effects?
Effects can enhance the sound of an electric violin, but they are not necessary for every player or situation. Using results can add depth, texture, and character to the sound of the instrument, creating a more dynamic and expressive performance.
Common effects used for electric violins include reverb, delay, distortion, and chorus. However, some string players may prefer a more natural sound and opt to play without any effects. Ultimately, the decision to use the impact depends on the player’s preference and the musical context in which they perform.
3. The Budget and Brand
Choosing an amp with a reasonable budget and reputable brand is essential to ensure you get the best value for your money and a quality instrument that meets your needs.
The best amp for violin can guarantee quality construction, reliable performance, and customer support. Budget considerations can also help you narrow your options and find a good amp that fits your needs and playing style without breaking the bank.
The Role of the Amp for Electric Violins
Amplifiers are essential for enhancing the sound of an electric violin, increasing its volume, and shaping its tone. They allow players to adjust the sound to their liking and add effects like reverb and chorus.
Amps also help electric violins blend with other instruments in a band or ensemble setting.
Multi-channel amplifiers are versatile tools for live performances, connecting to other instruments or microphones and functioning as preamps for recording or sound systems. Their portability and ease of use make them valuable for traveling musicians.
Is It Okay to Play an ELECTRIC Violin Without AN Amp?
While an electric violin is designed to be played with an amplifier, it can still produce sound without one. However, the sound will be much softer than an acoustic violin.
Playing without an amp can help practice at home or in quieter settings but may limit the range of expression and dynamics. Using an amp can significantly enhance the sound of an electric violin, offering a wider range of tonal possibilities and increasing the instrument’s versatility.
best amplifier for electric violin
Summary
Finding the best amp for electric violin can make all the difference in your musical journey. An amplifier for electric violin is a device that amplifies the sound produced by electric violins to be heard more clearly and at a higher volume.
From my experience, the Yamaha THR3OII is a reliable choice for beginners. It provides decent power and is straightforward to use.
The Fishman Loudbox Mini is a versatile companion due to its comprehensive onboard effects and robust speaker size. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, this amplifier is designed to meet your diverse musical needs.
For more professional needs, the Fishman Loudbox Artist delivers exceptional sound quality. It comes with two channels, making it versatile for different performance settings.
Remember to consider your specific requirements and budget. It’s worth trying a few options to see which resonates with you and your instrument. Happy playing!
This article provides an insightful overview for someone like myself who is contemplating the transition from purely acoustic to electric violin performances. I’ve spent considerable time pondering the optimal gear that would suit my advanced skill level while still allowing for the nuances of electric sound to shine through. Nadine, your detailed guide to selecting an electric violin amp, particularly the emphasis on output volume and the potential need for effects, is helpful. It offers a solid foundation for making informed choices. Further, your curated list of amps, including the Fishman and Yamaha models, has saved me hours of research. Greatly appreciated!
Does it really matter what amp you use? Sound is sound, right? I’m not convinced a pricier amp makes that big a difference for electric violins.
played my electric violin thru a buddy’s old amp and it sounded kinda off. this article makes me think maybe it’s time to invest in something proper. thanks for the info!
Hey Nadine Galea, really appreciate the rundown on amps for electric violins. I’ve been playing the acoustic violin for years and have recently been considering adding an electric to my collection. What I’m not sure about is the necessity of an amp specifically designed for electric violins. Would a regular guitar amp suffice if I’m just playing at home or do you think the specific amps mentioned offer a considerable advantage? Thanks for sharing your insights!
ViolaQueen98, while you can technically use a guitar amp, violin-specific amps are designed to better handle and project the distinct frequencies of a violin. They also often come with features tailored for violins that you won’t find in guitar amps. Definitely worth considering for the best sound quality!