Best
Affordable Professional Violin
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Overall: XXX
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Best Feature: XXX
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TedScore™: X/10
Best
Overall
Professional Violin
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Overall: XXX
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Best Feature: XXX
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TedScore™: X/10
Best
Hand-crafted Professional Violin
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Overall: XXX
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Best Feature: XXX
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TedScore™: X/10
As a professional violinist, selecting the right violin is very important for any professional musician. I know firsthand that the intricacies of tone, balance, and playability mean everything.
Why?
Because violins are a violinist’s best friend!
When talking about the best professional violins, it’s much more than just an instrument; we’re exploring a world of musical artistry and excellent masterpieces.
The problem is that choosing the perfect professional violin has never been EASY. Since these violins are not cheap, you must be meticulous and careful in deciding which one to get.
For me, the best professional violin (without spending a colossal amount of money) is the Bernd Hiller & Sohn G.B. Guadagnini Violin 4/4 because of its superb hand-crafted design, which produces the rich, authentic sound quality I was looking for in professional instruments.
My experiences have taught me that whether it’s a Stradivarius or a Guarneri, pursuing that perfect sound is a personal journey.
Choosing the Right Professional Violin
When I hunt for a professional violin, I always zero in on a few critical factors. I aim to buy an instrument that sings sweetly to my soul and feels right in my hands.
Factors to Consider When Buying
When embarking on this quest, I remind myself that the best violins resonate with me personally.
Comfort is the key!
I look for a vibrant tone, a responsive touch, and a comfortable fit. I’ll be spending countless hours with my violin, so it must feel like an extension of myself.
I also prioritize durability and the reputation of the maker or brand since it’s not just an instrument; it’s my lifelong companion.
Recognizing High-Quality Materials
I’m fascinated by the wood’s texture and grain of the violins.
The best violins usually flaunt spruce tops, maple backs, and sides, rich with personality. The varnish is not just for show; a fine layer of oil varnish protects the wood and can enrich the sounds that caress my ears.
I watch for hand-crafted violins, too—they often bear the magic touch of masters who’ve transferred their hand oil and spirit into the instrument’s very being.
Price Range and Investment Value
Having the price conversation, I’ve found that a top-tier violin typically runs into the thousands, but it’s not just a purchase; it’s an investment in my musical journey. Quality has its price tag!
The right violin matures in tone over time and may also appreciate in value, which is a nice bonus for choosing wisely.
Best Violin for Professionals
Now that you know what to consider when choosing, It’s my joy to give you my recommendations for these remarkable instruments and the artisans behind them!
Luca Zerilli Violins
I recently had the opportunity to play the Luca Zerilli Violin Guarneri Cremona 4/4, and I was thoroughly impressed by its rich, warm sound and the depth of its tonal colors.
The craftsmanship is exquisite, reflecting the storied tradition of Cremonese violin-making, and the attention to detail in the woodwork and varnish contributes to its stunning appearance and exceptional sound quality.
As an advanced player, I found this violin to respond beautifully to nuanced bowing and various fingerboard techniques, making it so satisfying to play across various musical styles.
Luca Zerilli Violin Guarneri Cremona 4/4
FEATURES: Handcrafted with select woods, including a spruce top and maple back, sides, and neck
OTHER INFO: Equipped with professional strings and a well-designed, well-crafted bridge
- Excellent craftsmanship that pays homage to the renowned Cremonese tradition
- Produces a rich, warm, and full-bodied sound quality
- Responsive to a wide range of dynamics and articulations, suitable for advanced players
- Priced higher than other models, potentially making it less accessible to some players
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™.
Scala Vilagio D.H. Antonio Stradivari
The Scala Vilagio D.H. Antonio Stradivari truly exceeded my expectations with its vibrant, rich tone that seemed to fill the room.
The craftsmanship is remarkable, paying homage to the traditional Guarneri design with a modern touch that results in a highly playable and aesthetically pleasing instrument.
It’s a professional-level violin that offers a great balance of warmth and projection, suitable for solo performances and ensemble work.
Scala Vilagio D.H. Antonio Stradivari
FEATURES: Made from carefully selected, old-seasoned tonewood from the Alps
OTHER INFO: A Stradivari Model with an elegant Guarneri model chinrest, also by Berdani
- With an even spruce top for exceptional resonance
- Strung with high-quality Dominant strings and a Wittner fine tuner for the E-string
- Expensive model!
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™.
Bernd Hiller & Sohn Violins
Upon playing the Bernd Hiller & Sohn Antonio Stradivari Violin 4/4, I was immediately struck by its exceptional clarity and resonance, which allowed for a wide range of expressive possibilities.
The violin’s build quality is outstanding, with meticulous attention to detail that honors the Stradivari legacy while incorporating the distinct craftsmanship of Hiller & Sohn.
It’s a remarkable instrument that combines historical reverence with contemporary performance needs, making it a top choice for me and professionals seeking a rich, authentic sound.
Bernd Hiller & Sohn Antonio Stradivari Violin 4/4
FEATURES: Antonio Stradivari designed
OTHER INFO: Made from old seasoned tonewood from the Alps
- It has a narrow-grained spruce top and flamed back sycamore maple
- the fingerboard, upper, and lower saddle are made of the finest ebony wood
- Evah Pirazzi Gold Strings
- 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™.
Edgar Russ Violins
The Edgar Russ – Sound of Cremona Linea Mauro Macchi Violin Guarneri model is also a true work of art, delivering a full and deep tone that beautifully captures the essence of the Guarneri tradition.
Its responsiveness and ease of play are exceptional, allowing for various dynamics that cater to the most demanding repertoires.
The violin’s superior craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the choice of woods to the elegant varnish, making it a joy to play- not to mention it being sooooo visually stunning instrument.
Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona Scala Perfetta Violin Guarneri
FEATURES: Guarneri model with a solid spruce top and flamed maple back
OTHER INFO: Blackwood fingerboard and has Evah Pirazzi strings
- From the master workshop of Edgar Russ in Cremona, Italy
- Made completely without the use of tropical wood
- Instrument only and not an outfit
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™.
Ernst Heinrich Roth
I also got the chance to try the Ernst Heinrich Roth 64/IX-R Master Violin, which was an exceptional experience!
The violin produces a robust, mature tone that rivals that of much older, classic instruments, and the craftsmanship is superb, with beautiful woodwork and a deep, lustrous finish.
Its high-quality instrument offers consistency and ease of playability, making it a fantastic choice for serious students and professional musicians looking for a reliable and resonant sound.
Ernst Heinrich Roth 64/IX-R Master Violin
FEATURES: A very good solo violin with a great fundamental sound
OTHER INFO: Beautiful split-flame maple back and fine-grained spruce top
- Guarneri del Gesu, 1736 model
- Tuning is done in-house at the manufacturer
- Expensive, Instrument only, and not an outfit
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™.
gewa vIOLINS
Another highly recommended professional violin is the GEWA Thomas Boehme Special Professional Violin.
It stands out in its class, offering a bright, clear sound that retains warmth and depth, a testament to its high-quality craftsmanship.
With its 4/4 size, it fits comfortably in the hands of the player, providing ease of movement and a responsive touch that caters to both delicate passages and vigorous bowing.
The attention to detail in how it’s created is evident, making it a reliable choice for professional settings and a visually appealing piece with its fine finish and elegant design.
GEWA Thomas Boehme Special Professional Violin
FEATURES: Manufactured and calibrated for the best possible sound using fine European tonewoods
OTHER INFO: Durable inlaid purfling and matching ebony fittings
- Handbuilt in GEWA's master workshop
- 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™.
Eastman Violins
The Eastman VL701 Rudoulf Doetsch Professional Violin Outfit is a beautifully crafted instrument that delivers a rich, powerful sound with excellent projection suitable for advanced players.
The violin’s tone is well-balanced across the strings, offering a warm, nuanced sound that can fill a concert hall while maintaining clarity and sweetness in quieter settings.
Its superior playability, responsive nature, aesthetically pleasing varnish, and expert workmanship make it a highly desirable choice for serious musicians.
Eastman VL701 Rudoulf Doetsch Professional Violin Outfit
FEATURES: Handmade violin by master luthiers using highly select German tonewoods
OTHER INFO: Boasts a set of Evah Pirazzi strings
- Coated with an Antiqued Spirit Varnish
- Comes with a violin case and bow
- Expensive for budget-conscious musicians
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™.
Klaus Heffler Violins
The Klaus Heffler No. 7/5 SE Guarneri Violin 4/4 in 4/4 size also gives a resonant, beautiful tone that truly sings, capturing the essence of a traditional European sound with a modern touch.
The superb craftsmanship offers a comfortable playing experience and responsiveness that encourages expressive performance.
This violin stands out for its consistency in quality and playability, making it an excellent choice for advancing students and professional players alike.
Klaus Heffler No. 7/5 SE Guarneri Violin 4/4
FEATURES: Handcrafted and modeled from Guarneri Violin
OTHER INFO: Made from matured wood -at least 30 years old Pros:
- Comes with Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Gold stringing
- Has elected soundboards originating in south Tyrol
- Comes with a high-quality antique lacquering
- 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™.
Knilling Violins
The Knilling 26F Anton Eminescu Master Model Violin impresses me with its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, resulting in a 4/4 size instrument that looks and sounds professional.
It delivers a rich, mature tone with a pleasing balance across the strings, providing the player with a responsive and dynamic range that is versatile for various playing styles.
Ideal for serious students and advanced players, this violin offers a high level of playability and aesthetic beauty, making it a valuable addition to any musician’s collection.
Knilling 26F Anton Eminescu Master Model Violin
FEATURES: Crafted from aged Carpathian spruce and maple for superior tone.
OTHER INFO: Expertly set up and optimized in the Knilling String Shop
- Ebony fingerboard, nut saddle, and tuning pegs
- Comes with D'Addario Zyex synthetic-core strings
- The pre-installed strings may not be compatible with the musician's preferred playing technique.
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™.
Hofner Violins
The Hofner H225 Series Guarneri Professional Violin, finished with an antique varnish, exudes a vintage charm while providing the 4/4 size favored by full-sized players.
Its mellow sound is deeply resonant and well-rounded, with a rich timbre that pays homage to the Stradivari legacy it’s modeled after.
The violin’s playability and aesthetic appeal, combined with its warm, clear projection, make it a fantastic choice for both intermediate and advanced violinists seeking a high-quality instrument with historical character.
Hofner H225 Series Guarneri Professional Violin
FEATURES: Patterned after a 1741 instrument by Italian luthier Bartolomeo Giuseppe Guarneri
OTHER INFO: Handcrafted from air-dried, oldest-stock, AAA Alpine spruce and European maple
- Ebony Parisian eye end button and pegs
- Despiau ''A''-level French bridge
- Ebony tailpiece with E tuner
- Guarneri-model ebony chinrest
- 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™.
Best Electric and Acoustic-Electric Violins
Aside from classical violins, electric violin for professionals can also be a good option. It allows the violinist to have a unique-looking instrument and makes them look extra cool!
Electric violins and acoustic-electric hybrids bring a modern twist to the classic instrument, and they offer versatility and new soundscapes for musicians exploring different genres.
Electric Violin Explained
Electric violins are fantastic!
It allows me to plug into an amplifier and get going with various beautiful sound effects. These instruments often have a solid body, substantially reducing their acoustic sound.
The best electric violins provide a crisp, clean, amplified sound ideal for recording and live performance. I also appreciate their silent practice capability—no need to disturb my neighbors while I perfect a new tune!
Yamaha Silent Series YSV104 Electric Violin
Yamaha Silent Series YSV104 Electric Violin
FEATURES: Solid body electric violin with realistic acoustic tone
OTHER INFO: SRT (Studio Response Technology) emulates the tone and resonance of an acoustic violin
- Streamlined control box with aux input makes practice fun
- Players may need time to adjust to the silent violin's unique feel and sound
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™.
Playing the Yamaha Silent Series SV-255 Electric Violin in Shaded Brown was a revelation, offering the quiet practice capability without sacrificing the rich, acoustic-like tone I love.
Its lightweight design and the shaded brown finish made it comfortable to play for extended sessions and visually striking on stage.
Electric Violin Explained
Electric violins are fantastic!
It allows me to plug into an amplifier and get going with various beautiful sound effects. These instruments often have a solid body, substantially reducing their acoustic sound.
The best electric violins provide a crisp, clean, amplified sound ideal for recording and live performance. I also appreciate their silent practice capability—no need to disturb my neighbors while I perfect a new tune!
Realist RV5PEFA 5-string Acoustic-electric Violin - Frantique
Realist RV5PEFA 5-string Acoustic-electric Violin - Frantique
FEATURES: Can deliver a clear, open tone with subdued projection to safeguard against unwanted feedback
OTHER INFO: Direct access to Instant-Active technology
- Made from carved Carpathian spruce for a clear, open-tone
- Custom-designed bridge curvature and expertly arranged string spacing ensures a familiar 4-string feel
- 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™.
I was thoroughly impressed by the Realist RV5PEFA 5-string Acoustic-electric Violin in Frantique; its seamless blend of acoustic warmth and electric versatility truly catered to my diverse playing needs.
The additional fifth string expanded my creative possibilities, and the unique Frantique finish never failed to catch the eye of my audience.
Where to Purchase and Trial Violins
When I hunt for a professional violin, I always consider the feels and how the instrument plays before committing to buying it.
It’s a treasure hunt for the perfect harmony of craftsmanship and playability, whether snapping up a handmade violin or a seasoned professional one – you can buy one online or at a local store.
Online Outlets
Shopping online for a violin has its perks.
I get to browse a vast array of options without leaving my couch. Websites like Gear4music, Sweetwater, and Thomman are my go-to spots for handcrafted professional violins.
They offer great services and have clear return policies, which is a huge comfort for such a significant investment.
Local Stores
However, nothing beats the hands-on experience I get in local violin shops!
I love chatting with knowledgeable luthiers who guide me through their selection.
Physical stores, especially those specializing in string instruments, often have a curated selection of beautiful handmade violins waiting for someone like me to give them a new home.
They’ll let me try before I buy, ensuring the violin I choose sings sweetly to my tune and is the right find for me.
Best Professional Violins:
A Recap
In my journey through the violin world, I’ve discovered some violins worth their weight in gold. These models stand out with their rich history and incomparable sound.
To give you a recap, I highly recommend these brands of the best professional violins:
- Luca Zerilli
- Scala Viliago
- Bernd Hiller & Sohn
- Edgar Russ
- Ernst Heinrich Roth
And if you are looking for much more affordable professional violins that cost less than $/£5,000, here are the following brands I recommend:
- GEWA
- Eastman
- Klaus Heffler
- Knilling
- Hofner
Selecting the perfect violin is a personal journey. I’ve given you a taste of the top-tier instruments that could grace your hands.
May you find the right one!
But, before you go…
Your violin must have strings to play its beautiful sound. If you want to know everything about strings, the next article is perfect!
This article is a treasure trove of information for professionals. Kudos to Anna Downes for compiling such an extensive list of high-quality violins. I’m particularly intrigued by Edgar Russ violins, their craftsmanship and sound quality are unparalleled in my experience.
I must say, while the list is impressive, I believe historical context greatly benefits the valuation and appreciation of a violin. The makers are indeed top-notch, but what about the soul of the instrument? Has anyone else pondered how the violin’s history affects its sound and playing character?
That’s a thought-provoking point! The material’s age and the craftsmanship detail do indeed play a role in the instrument’s unique sound.
honestly, never thought electric violins could match up but Yamaha’s silent series sounds tempting. Gotta check it out.
Hey Anna Downes, thanks for the helpful write-up! Quick q: between the Luca Zerilli and Ernst Heinrich Roth violins, which do you think offers a better playing experience for intermediate players aiming to go pro? Cheers!