Best
Beginner Violin
3/4 Size HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS
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Overall: Great sound and playability
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Best Feature: Hand-carved spruce top and maple back and sides
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Intermediate Violin
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Overall: Handmade to perfection by D Z Strad luthiers.
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Best Feature: Made from the spruce top and selected maple back and sides.
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Professional Violin
SV-500 Premier
Artist Violin Inspired by the great Stradivarius
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Overall: One-piece back looks just as good as it sounds
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Best Feature: Full ebony fittings plus an alloy tailpiece with fine tuners
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TedScore™: 9/10
Finding the ideal violin feels like meeting a new friend. Discussing top violin brands is thrilling. Picking the right instrument for your musical adventure is crucial, much like choosing a friend—it must fit perfectly!
When I was young and held my first violin, it felt like pure magic. Whether you’re a beginner or moving to the intermediate level, I’ll share the secrets of finding a fantastic musical companion.
So, join me on this musical journey, and we’ll fine-tune your knowledge together!
Best Violin Brands
It’s a versatile and enchanting instrument that can make your heart skip a beat and send shivers down your spine. There are many great and famous violin brands. If you’re in the market for a new violin or just curious about the best violin brands in the world, you’ve come to the right place!
Stradivari
Stradivarius violins are some of the world’s most sought-after and expensive violins. They were made by the famous Italian luthier Antonio Stradivari in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Only a few hundred Stradivarius violins remain, making them incredibly rare and valuable.
Yamaha
Yamaha has been a leading brand in the music industry for decades. The Yamaha violin is known for its exceptional sound quality, durability, and ease of use.
It uses high-quality materials such as spruce, maple, and ebony to ensure that its violins produce a rich, clear sound.
Stentor
Stentor is a highly recommended brand by violin teachers as it offers high-quality violins. It has been around since the late 1800s, but it was in the 1960s that they began making their own student violins rather than importing them.
This indicates that their instruments are now of higher quality, and since then, they have established excellent output.
Fiddlerman
The Fiddlerman brand is known for offering quality instruments at affordable prices and providing excellent customer service. Fiddlerman violins are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and easy to play.
The brand offers a variety of models to suit different playing styles and skill levels, so it’s essential to choose the one that’s right for you based on your needs and preferences.
D Z Strad
It’s one of the well-known professional violin brands for violinists. D Z Strad violins are handcrafted using high-quality aged tonewood, and they offer a range of models to suit different playing styles and preferences.
Eastman
A highly regarded violin brand that offers a range of violins. They are known for their craftsmanship, use of quality materials, and affordability.
Eastman violins are handcrafted with attention to detail, producing a warm and resonant sound. They are made from solid tonewoods, aged for enhanced tonality and resonance.
Bunnel
Kennedy supplied Bunnel. It’s a relatively new name on the market, headquartered in Washington. Even so, they had great success when they started to open. They frequently garner glowing reviews.
This is hardly surprising with the attention to detail and quality craftsmanship put into each model.
Cremona
It’s a violin brand that is highly regarded among professional players and is considered an excellent choice for those who are looking for a high-quality and top-performing cremona violin made.
Cremona violins are made from premium quality woods such as spruce, maple, and ebony, carefully selected for their tonal properties. This ensures the instruments produce a rich, warm sound for professional performances.
Cecilio
One of the student violin brands known for making affordable instruments for beginners and intermediate players.
The company offers a range of musical instruments, including violins, cellos, trumpets, saxophones, clarinets, and more.
Due to their affordability and quality, the Cecilio violin is particularly popular among beginner and intermediate players.
They offer a wide range of violins at different price points, making them accessible to players with different budgets. Cecilio violins are made from high-quality materials such as spruce, maple, and ebony and are hand-carved by skilled luthiers.
Mendini
This brand is known for making affordable violins for beginners and intermediate players.
The brand is owned by Cecilio, a company specialising in making affordable musical instruments.specializing.
Mendini violins are designed to be all-purpose instruments suitable for students who want to learn the violin without worrying about the costs of replacing strings or maintenance in general.
They include all the necessities for a starter, such as a shoulder rest, extra strings, and a tuner.
Best Violin for Beginners
Stentor Student 2 Violin
Music teachers recommend this violin because of the quality of its make, which is uncommon considering the affordability of this violin.
In crafting the violin, the company uses premium quality materials like aged spruce for the top part to ensure good sound transmission, and for the bottom and sides, aged maple is used, mainly because of its durability
Stentor Student 2 Violin
PERFECT FOR: Beginners and students
FEATURES: The composite tailpiece has four integrated adjusters
OTHER INFO: The top is made from carved, solid spruce top
Stentor Student 2 Violin
- The violin is finished in gold-brown varnish
- Cost-effective investment
- Good sound quality
- It uses premium quality materials.
- 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™.
Yamaha V3 Series Student Violin Outfit 3/4 Size
It’s an entry-level student violin that is designed with a balance between cost and quality in mind. Known for being a well-built violin with good sound that won’t break the bank, it’s one of the best student violin brands we recommend!
Yamaha V3 Series Student Violin Outfit 3/4 Size
PERFECT FOR: Beginner, intermediate players, and professional
FEATURES: Hand-carved spruce top and maple back and sides
OTHER INFO: Ebony fingerboard and pegs
Yamaha V3 Series Student Violin Outfit 3/4 Size
- Wittner tailpiece with four built-in fine tuners
- Great sound and playability
- Solid reputation and support
- Complete kit
- Some users may prefer different strings or accessories
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™.
Bunnel G1 Violin Outfit
It’s designed to offer higher-quality materials and sound than entry-level instruments while still being affordable for students and hobbyists. Professional testers typically describe its sound as sweet, strong, and projective. The Bunnel G1 Violin Outfit is a popular choice for young students and adult beginners looking for a quality instrument that will last for years.
Bunnel G1 Violin Outfit
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to intermediate.
FEATURES: Pure ebony fittings with an oil finish
OTHER INFO: Equipped with D’Addario Prelude Strings
Bunnel G1 Violin Outfit
- Hand-carved spruce and maple wood
- Easy to tune and play
- Extra strings, tuner, and other accessories included
- Lifetime warranty
- Heavy, so not the best for younger children
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 Intermediate Players
D Z Strad Model 509
It’s designed for intermediate to advanced players looking for an instrument to deliver a rich, complex sound with plenty of projection. It has a warm and balanced tone suits various playing styles and genres.
D Z Strad Model 509
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate level
FEATURES: Handmade to perfection by D Z Strad luthiers.
OTHER INFO: Made from the spruce top and selected maple back and sides.
D Z Strad Model 509
- Antique varnish finish
- High-quality sound and craftsmanship.
- Made from premium quality tonewoods
- Complete package.
- It may not be suitable for beginners due to its high cost.
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 Maestro 2 Violin
It’s a high-quality guitar designed for serious musicians who demand the best. Its combination of premium materials, superior workmanship, and exceptional tone make it a top choice for players looking for an instrument to help them achieve their musical goals.
GEWA Maestro 2 Violin
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate
FEATURES: Solid Adirondack Spruce top and solid Mahogany back and sides
OTHER INFO: Rosewood fingerboard and bridge. Bone nut and saddle
GEWA Maestro 2 Violin
- High-quality materials and craftsmanship
- Provides a bright, clear tone
- Enhance sustain and resonance
- Some players may prefer a more modern-looking guitar
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™.
Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit
Known for its exceptional playability and sound quality. It is made by experienced luthiers who use traditional techniques to ensure the highest quality and craftsmanship. The outfit is designed to provide players with everything they need to start playing and enjoying their violin immediately.
Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate level
FEATURES: Solid-carved spruce and maple tonewoods
OTHER INFO: Carbon tailpiece with four fine tuners
Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit
- Hand-carved French Despiau or Holstein 1-star Bridge
- Comes with a complete package
- With high-quality instruments
- Available in many sizes
- The included shoulder rest may not fit all players comfortably
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 Professional Players
Cremona SV-500 Premier Artist Violin
It’s a specific violin model produced by Cremona, a company specialising in making high-quality stringed instruments. Considered as one of the best violin brands for professionals, the SV-500 is designed for intermediate to advanced players looking for an instrument to deliver a rich, complex sound with plenty of projection.
Cremona SV-500 Premier Artist Violin
PERFECT FOR: Professional musicians
FEATURES: Hand-carved solid spruce and solid maple body
OTHER INFO: Ebony fittings, including the fingerboard, pegs, chinrest, and tailpiece
Cremona SV-500 Premier Artist Violin
- Hand-applied and antiqued oil varnish finish
- Made by experienced violin luthiers
- Produces a rich, warm, and responsive sound
- High-quality materials
- Comes with a high-quality case and 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™.
Yamaha YEV105 Electric Violin
It’s a sublime combination of acoustic violin and contemporary guitar shapes. It can reproduce gorgeous natural sounds. The high-quality oil-finished walnut frame of this violin yields an eye-popping visual while the well-constructed body with five layers of maple, mahogany, and spruce wood enhances the transcendent playability of this violin.
Yamaha YEV105 Electric Violin
PERFECT FOR: Professional
FEATURES: Standard shoulder and a tailpiece with fine plastic tuners.
OTHER INFO: The electric violins have a supremely elegant design.
Yamaha YEV105 Electric Violin
- Built from top-quality wood
- Gorgeous natural sound with excellent transcendent playability
- Offers super resonance
- Natural tone
- You'll need an amplifier that you have to buy separately
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™.
Cecilio CVN-600 Violin
It’s one of the premium professional violins that offers the best sound and top-built quality. This neo-classical styling violin is amazing to play. Most advanced players like this intricately designed violin’s excellent tonal quality and elegant look.
Cecilio CVN-600 Violin
PERFECT FOR: Advanced player
FEATURES: Hard luxurious oblong professional carrying case
OTHER INFO: Comes with four detachable fine gold-plated tuners
Cecilio CVN-600 Violin
- Highly durable ebony fingerboard
- Good quality violins
- Rich tonal quality
- Affordable price
- Heavy
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™.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Violin Brand
There are several factors to consider before making your purchase. This section will discuss the most important factors when choosing a violin brand.
Sound Quality
Several factors, including the quality of the wood, the craftsmanship, and the strings, determine the sound of a violin. You should look for a brand that produces violins with a warm, rich, and balanced sound.
Craftsmanship
A well-crafted violin will have a good tone, be easy to play, and last many years. Look for a brand that uses high-quality wood and has skilled craftsmen who pay attention to detail. You should also consider the violin’s finish, as a good finish will protect the wood and enhance the overall appearance of the instrument.
Price
Violins can range in price from a few hundred to tens of thousands. As a beginner, you may want to start with a more affordable brand to see if you enjoy playing the violin before investing in a more expensive instrument. However, if you are an advanced player, you may want to invest in a higher-end brand that produces high-quality violins.
Warranty
A good warranty will protect your investment and give you peace of mind. Look for a brand that offers a warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship for a reasonable amount of time.
Best Violin Brands
Summary
I hope you’ve enjoyed exploring the best violin brands as much as I’ve enjoyed sharing them with you. Whether you’re just starting or a pro, having a quality violin is super important.
D Z Strad and Stentor are popular choices for beginners and intermediates. Cremona is a top pick for professionals, and Yamaha is excellent for those on a budget.
Remember, it’s not just about the brand – the best violin is the one that not only feels right for you but also resonates with your heart, understanding your musical journey and valuing your unique connection.
Here’s a quick summary:
- Beginners’ Choice: Stentor Student 2
- Intermediate Option: D Z Strad Model 509
- Professional Pick: Cremona SV-500 Premier
- Favorite Under $1,000: Yamaha V3 Series
I’m glad you stuck with me till the end. Here’s to finding that particular violin that makes your musical soul soar!
Before you go – do take a look at our fantastic article, 16 Violins For Beginners, as you may find it useful.
Interesting choices listed for intermediate players, but I’m surprised not to see any mention of baroque or electric hybrid models. Considering the versatility needed by modern players, shouldn’t we also be looking at instruments that cater to a wider range of musical genres?
That’s a good point, ClassicalOnly. There’s definitely a unique touch to the acoustics that can’t be replicated. Appreciate the insight!
I get where you’re coming from, but traditional acoustics will always provide the depth and warmth that no electric model can. It’s about the feel of the music.
yamaha seems cool, might save up for it.
Has anyone had the chance to compare the sound quality of the Yamaha YEV105 Electric Violin with traditional acoustic models in live performances? I’m curious about its adaptability in different musical settings. Always on the hunt for gear that can elevate the performance experience without compromising the soulful sound we’re known for.
ever thought about switching to viola instead? 😆 just kidding, but seriously, electric violins fascinate me too!
Loved the section on violins for beginners! I remember starting out on a Stentor myself, and it’s great to see it recommended. Anna Bringham, your guide is super helpful for anyone just dipping their toes into the world of violins. Wish I had this when I was starting!
Hey there! 🎻 Just stumbled upon your article about the top violin brands, and I have to say, what a gem! Your research on instruments with great sound and comfortable playability is a lifesaver for someone like me who’s been on the fence about diving into the world of violins. The way you break down options for both beginners and pros is fantastic.
I’ve been toying with the idea of picking up the violin for a while now, & but the whole process seemed a bit overwhelming. Your article not only made me feel less intimidated but also got me excited about the prospect of making beautiful music. Your encouragement to not let the daunting choice of a violin discourage us is just the motivation I needed. It’s like you’re giving a virtual pep talk to all the aspiring violinists out there!
I especially appreciate the personal touch you bring to the recommendations. It feels like you’re chatting with a friend who happens to know everything about violins. Thanks for making the journey of choosing the right instrument seem like an exciting adventure rather than a chore. Looking forward to more insightful reads from you! 🎶