Best
Budget
Intermediate Violin
EVN X-4/4 MBK HIGH-END INSTRUMENTS
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Overall: Built-in headphone jack
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Best Feature: Volume and tone controls and Passive pickup
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Overall
Intermediate Violin
Violin 4/4 Full Size WITH BEAUTIFUL APPEARANCE
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Overall: Made from highly flamed maple back and side
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Best Feature: It's a solid-grained spruce top
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Electric
Intermediate Violin
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Overall: 100% ebony fingerboard, and pegs
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Best Feature: Beautifully figured spruce and maple tonewoods
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TedScore™: 8/10
Are you ready to take your violin playing to the next level? As an intermediate player, you’ve already dedicated countless hours to mastering the basics of violin playing.
Now, it’s time to invest in an instrument that truly showcases your talent and commitment.
This article will guide you on a fun and informative journey to help you choose the best violin for intermediate players.
I’ll explore the factors you should consider. Plus, I’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide on taking care of your new violin and some fantastic tips on accessories to enhance your playing experience.
Whether you’re searching for a classic acoustic or a modern electric violin, I’ll (hopefully!) help you find the perfect match for your skill level and musical ambitions.
What to Expect in a Violin for Intermediate
Here are the things you can expect:
A higher-quality violin will produce a richer, more nuanced sound. Intermediate violins often feature solid wood construction, which produces a warmer, more resonant tone.
Intermediate violins are typically easier to play than beginner models. They often have better-tuning stability, more comfortable necks, and a smoother finish, making moving your fingers across the strings easier.
They often feature premium materials such as spruce or maple for the top and back, ebony for the fingerboard and pegs, and high-quality strings.
These materials not only contribute to a better sound but also enhance the overall durability of the instrument.
They’re typically crafted with greater attention to detail and precision. You’ll notice finer details such as well-fitted parts, expertly carved arches, and a well-applied varnish.
Features to Consider When Buying an Intermediate Violin
Tone & Sound
Well, for starters, you’ll notice a significant improvement in the richness and complexity of the sound. The best intermediate violins are crafted with better quality materials and are often hand-crafted, resulting in a more refined and sophisticated tone.
You’ll also notice that the sound is more balanced across all strings. The lower notes will have a deep, resonant quality, while the higher notes will be clear and sweet.
The sound will be more even and consistent, making producing a beautiful and cohesive sound easier.
Material & Finish
Intermediate violins often feature stronger woods and adhesives than beginner violins, allowing for a deeper, more resonant sound. The type of wood used is also important, with European tonal woods being a popular choice.
It can be found with smooth, lacquered and textured finishes, which may provide additional grip for the player.
Brand
Well-known and established brands are likely to produce instruments of a higher quality with better craftsmanship and materials, ensuring that the instrument will sound better and last longer.
It also offers better customer support and after-sales service, ensuring the player can get assistance if the instrument needs repair or maintenance.
Some brands are known for producing instruments with particular sound qualities, which can be important for intermediate players developing their own musical styles and preferences.
Electronics
Electric violins can be amplified with either built-in amplification or an external amplifier, providing greater versatility in performance settings. They can also be hooked to pedals or a pedalboard for various effects.
However, it’s important to note that an acoustic violin produces its own sound and does not require any plugs or wires. Beginners should learn an acoustic violin before transitioning to an electric violin.
Items such as mutes, tuners, and rosin may also be included when purchasing a violin outfit.
These features can help you find a quality violin for your intermediate playing needs.
Acoustic Violins for Intermediate Players
Fiddlerman Soloist Violin
It’s a high-quality instrument designed for intermediate players. It is a product of Fiddlershop, a Florida-based company specialising in violins, violas, cellos, and accessories for stringed instruments.
Fiddlerman Soloist Violin
FEATURES: Highly flamed maple back, sides, and neck
OTHER INFO: Hand-carved spruce top
- Amazing sound quality
- Comes with a bow and case
- Comfortable and easy to play
- It may require some setup and adjustment
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 Violin
It’s an excellent choice for a top-quality instrument with superior sound and playability. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this violin will inspire you to new heights of musical excellence.
So why wait? Treat yourself to a D Z Strad Model 220 Violin today and start making beautiful music.
D Z Strad Model 220 Violin
FEATURES: Hand-carved solid spruce top
OTHER INFO: Includes boxwood pegs, tailpiece, and chinrest
- Beautiful tone and projection
- Comfortable playing for extended periods
- Comes with a case and bow
- More expensive than some other intermediate violins
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™.
MIRIO Violin
It features superior clarity, remarkable responsiveness, a solid spruce top and a pleasantly bright and warm tone, providing students with an instrument to confidently develop their skills.
MIRIO Violin 4/4 Full Size
FEATURES: Made from highly flamed maple back and side
OTHER INFO: It's a solid-grained spruce top
- Warm tone
- Easy to press the strings
- Durable with fine attention to detail
- 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™.
McNeela Premier Student Violin
It’s a handcrafted instrument made from high-quality tonewoods, including a spruce top, maple back, and sides. It comes in various sizes, ranging from 1/16 to 4/4, making it suitable for children and adults alike.
McNeela Premier Student Violin
FEATURES: Handcrafted construction
OTHER INFO: Maple back and sides
- Handcrafted Quality
- Warm and resonant tone
- Lightweight case
- Limited availability
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™.
Cremona SV-130 Premier
It’s an entry-level instrument designed for students learning the violin. It’s handcrafted from high-quality tonewoods, including a solid spruce top, maple back, and sides. The violin is designed to focus on playability, tone, and affordability.
Cremona SV-130 Premier
FEATURES: Handcrafted from high-quality tonewoods
OTHER INFO: Solid spruce top and maple back and sides
- All-in-one outfit with violin, rest, bow, rosin, and case
- Quality strings for a starter instrument
- Ebony fretboard
- May require adjustments
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 STRINGS VL100
It’s a high-quality violin designed for intermediate players looking for a professional sound and feel.
Its handcrafted construction, high-quality tonewoods, and professional-grade strings make it a great choice for players who want a reliable and high-performing instrument.
EASTMAN STRINGS VL100
FEATURES: Entirely hand-carved from solid tonewoods
OTHER INFO: Durable fibreglass bow with Mongolian horsehair
- Professional-grade strings
- Handcrafted Quality
- High-quality tonewoods
- Heavier weight
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™.
Stentor Conservatoire violin
The Stentor Conservatoire violin outfit is chosen by intermediate players and above who are looking to progress and develop their sound. It is often recommended by teachers as a step-up instrument for students.
The instrument is made using an inside mould giving fine detail and accuracy to the assembly of the body.
Stentor Conservatoire Violin
FEATURES: Solid spruce top
OTHER INFO: Outfit complete with bow and case
- Professional sound and feel
- Handcrafted Quality
- High-quality tonewoods
- May require adjustments
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™.
Electric Violins for Intermediate Players
Yamaha SV-200 Silent Electric Violin
It’s a professional-grade electric violin suitable for intermediate players exploring different playing and performance styles.
It boasts a natural-looking finish that will turn heads wherever you play, and it’s lightweight and comfortable to hold so that you can play for hours without fatigue.
Yamaha SV-200 Silent Electric Violin
FEATURES: Solid spruce body
OTHER INFO: built with a high-quality pickup and preamp system
- Available in a different colour
- Versatile sound and performance options
- Lightweight design
- It may require additional equipment
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 Electric Violin
It’s a high-quality instrument that produces a rich, warm sound that is perfect for various musical styles, including classical, jazz, and rock.
It’s an excellent choice for intermediate players looking to explore the world of electric violins without breaking the bank.
Cecilio Electric Violin
FEATURES: Hand-carved solid maple body
OTHER INFO: Tailpiece with 4 detachable nickel-plated fine tuners
- Lightweight
- Complete outfit
- Quality sound produced
- Limited colour options
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 Novita 3.0 5 String Electric Violin
It’s a premium quality electric violin that produces a rich, warm sound suitable for various musical styles, from classical to rock. It’s ideal for intermediate and professional players who want a reliable and high-quality instrument.
GEWA Novita 3.0 5 String Electric Violin with adapter Bundle
FEATURES: 5-string construction with traditional spruce top and maple back
OTHER INFO: Fantastic setup with high-end Wittner fittings and Thomastik-Infeld strings
- Includes excellent Hartwood amp, perfect for gigs and home practice
- High-quality construction
- Versatile sound
- 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™.
NS Design WAV4
Simplicity and elegance go in hand to make the affordable WAV series the best option for the serious player on a budget. Professional quality and industry-leading design are combined to create beautiful-sounding instruments that are a joy to play.
NS Design WAV4
FEATURES: Maple neck and body
OTHER INFO: Ergonomic shoulder rest
- Great natural sound
- Comfortable support
- For rich tone and visual grace
- Requires some setup
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™.
Kinglos 4/4 Blue Fire
Provides violinists of all levels with the ability to practice confidently without disturbing others. Though the acoustic sound produced is barely a whisper, with headphones, you will hear yourself in a resonant concert hall’s rich, virtual environment.
The intermediate electric violins have adjusting capabilities for volume and mixed voice.
Kinglos 4/4 Blue Fire
FEATURES: Hand-carved solid spruce body
OTHER INFO: With an ebony fingerboard, pegs, and chin rest
- Comprehensive outfit
- High-quality construction
- Convenient power source
- Incomplete 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™.
Bridge Aquila Electric Violin
It’s a high-end electric violin that is handcrafted in Europe. It’s designed for intermediate to advanced players looking for a top-quality instrument with exceptional sound and playability.
Bridge Aquila Electric Violin
FEATURES: Stradivari-style chin rest
OTHER INFO: Tailpiece with fine tuners
- High-quality craftsmanship
- Exceptional sound quality
- 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™.
Stagg EVN X-4/4 MBK
It’s a budget-friendly electric violin suitable for intermediate players looking for a reliable instrument with decent sound quality.
Stagg EVN X-4/4 MBK
FEATURES: Built-in headphone jack
OTHER INFO: Volume and tone controls
- Cost-effective
- Decent sound quality
- Lightweight
- Limited features
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™.
Tips for Taking Care of a Violin
Bonus: Accessories for Intermediate Players
Case
When it comes to cases, oblong-shaped cases are a popular choice. These provide extra room for accessories and often come with a music pocket. It’s important to consider its size, tone, and price. The patient should properly fit and protect the instrument.
With the right case, an intermediate violin player can confidently transport and store their instrument, ensuring its longevity and preserving its sound.
Aileen CSV-F18
FEATURES: made of high-quality ABS plastic
OTHER INFO: With a shoulder rest holder
- Easy to carry
- Excellent quality
- Cost-effective
- 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™.
Shoulder Rest
It’s an essential accessory that can greatly improve your playing experience. A shoulder rest provides extra support and comfort when playing, which can make a big difference in the sound quality of your playing.
Additionally, it helps to keep your posture correct, which is important for improving your technique over time.
When choosing a shoulder rest, it’s important to find one that is adjustable to find the most comfortable position for you.
Also, you’ll want to look for a lightweight and durable option that can withstand everyday wear and tear. Many shoulder rests are available, so research and find one right for you and your instrument.
Bon Musica Violin Shoulder Rest, 4/4 Size
FEATURES: Height and width adjustable
OTHER INFO: Fits 4/4 Violin
- Premium quality
- Fully adjustable
- Non-slip
- 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™.
Rosin
It increases the friction between the bow and violin strings, which helps create sound. It’s important to match the type of rosin to the type of strings used, with hard rosin better for steel strings and soft rosin better for gut strings.
Boosting the rosin when upgrading a violin is also recommended.
Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Gold Rosin
FEATURES: Made from a blend of natural resins
OTHER INFO: Comes in a round cake
- Produces a clear and powerful sound
- Provides good grip and response
- Minimal dust and residue
- It may not work as well with lower-quality strings
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™.
Spare Strings
Finding the right strings can also help bring out the best in an intermediate player’s skills and improve the instrument’s overall sound.
As such, it’s important to experiment with different strings to find the right fit for your playing style and preferences.
Thomastik Dominant Violin String Set, Steel E, 4/4 Size, Medium
DESIGNED FOR: Intermediate and professional player
FEATURES: Made of synthetic core material
OTHER INFO: Available in different gauges
Thomastik Dominant Violin String Set, Steel E, 4/4 Size, Medium
- llows players to customize the sound and playability
- Excellent tone quality and projection
- The strings may take some time to settle
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 a portable or adjustable stand that holds sheet music, books, or electronic devices at a comfortable height and angle for the violinist to read while playing. The stand is usually lightweight and easily adjusted for height, angle, and stability.
Peak Music Stands
FEATURES: Bow hanger
OTHER INFO: Complete with an aluminium body
- Adjustable arms
- Durable stand
- Easy to carry and manoeuvre
- It may not be suitable for longer pieces
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 Care Kit
It’s a set of tools and products designed to help maintain and protect the violin, keeping it in optimal playing condition.
Superslick VCK2 Violin/Viola Care Kit
FEATURES: Lacquer- and wood-safe untreated polish cloth and a white hanky cloth
OTHER INFO: Luthier's Choice wood polish/cleaner keeps your instrument looking like new
- Non-toxic and safe for use on all materials
- Luthier's Choice dark rosin offers a terrific grip on your strings
- Convenient care instructions
- 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™.
Best Violin For Intermediate Player
Summary
Choosing the perfect violin can be daunting, especially when you’re bombarded with many options that leave you feeling overwhelmed.
As an intermediate player, you already know the importance of having a violin that can keep up with your dedication and talent. That’s why it’s crucial to look for specific features such as tone and sound, material and finish, and brand when choosing the best violin for you.
And let’s not forget about the essential accessories, like a case, shoulder rest, and rosin, that can keep your instrument in tip-top shape for years to come.
Don’t let the process of choosing an intermediate violin stress you out. Share this information with your fellow violinist to find the perfect violin to match their skills and passion.
And don’t forget to look at my article reviewing the Best Violin Rosin…
Just got a Yamaha SV-200 Silent Electric Violin and it’s honestly so cool. It’s like, you can practice without making a lot of noise, which is perfect for me since I share a room with my brother and he’s always complaining. Plus, it looks super futuristic which is a bonus. Anyone else tried playing one at night? Literally the best thing for not waking up my entire house lol.
Totally get you with the Yamaha SV-200, it’s a lifesaver in dorms too. Silent practice for the win!
wish my sis had one, could finally get some sleep around here without her usual screeching lol
In my days of teaching, the emphasis was always on acoustic violins for purists. However, it’s intriguing to see the evolution into electric violins. The GEWA Novita 3.0, for instance, signifies a remarkable shift in tradition. I wonder how it maintains the integrity of violin sound. Traditionalists might find this a challenging adjustment.
Spot on with the EASTMAN STRINGS VL100, that violin’s a beast for its price. Got one for my cousin and she can’t stop raving about it. Good call!
Hey, Nadine , thanks for this detailed piece! I’m pretty new to this whole violin journey and definitely on the lookout for a good intermediate violin as I feel I’ve outgrown my beginner model. I’m leaning towards the Fiddlerman Soloist Violin from the acoustic section, but I’m curious, how does it compare in terms of playability and sound quality to the D Z Strad Model 220? I’m all for getting the best bang for my buck, and any insights or comparisons you might have would be super helpful. Cheers!