Best Electric Violins: 7 Top Picks for Musicians

The best electric violins offer a modern twist to traditional violin playing, bringing versatility and convenience to musicians of all levels. Whether you're practicing quietly or performing on stage, these instruments are revolutionizing the world of strings.

Key Learnings:

• How electric violins differ from acoustic violins.
• The top electric violins on the market and their unique features.
• What to consider when choosing an electric violin.

What Are the Best Electric Violins?

1. Yamaha YEV104NT
2. Yamaha YSV104
3. Pyle PEGVLN33
4. Kinglos Flowers DSG1201
5. Vangoa Electric Violin
6. Cecilio 4/4 CEVN-2BL
7. Stagg EVN X-4/4 MBL

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1. Yamaha YEV104NT

Why Someone Should Buy:

This violin is perfect for musicians seeking a natural feel with extra strings and tone while enjoying the benefits of an electric instrument. Its simplicity makes it ideal for live performance, requiring minimal setup.

Technical Features:

• Color – Natural.
• Dimensions – 32 x 12 x 5 inches.
• Weight – 2.57 pounds.
• Operation – Electric, plug and play.
• Material – Made from 6 woods.
• Strings – 4 strings.

Review:

The Yamaha YEV104NT stands out for its gorgeous design and natural violin sound, thanks to its blend of various woods. Its amplified sound quality is superb, making it suitable for both solo practice and live performances.

Verdict:

This violin is an excellent choice for those who want a balance of style, base tone, and substance in an electric instrument.

This Product is Perfect For:

• Musicians who perform live.
• Players seeking a lightweight, natural-sounding instrument.
• Those looking for a beautiful design without complicated setups.

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2. Yamaha YSV104

Why Someone Should Buy:

The YSV104 is perfect for violinists who need to practice quietly but want to retain the feel of an acoustic violin. Its aux input and onboard reverb enhance the practice experience.

Technical Features:

• Body Material – Spruce and maple.
• Fingerboard – Composite material.
• Pickup – Piezo system.
• Strings – 4 strings.
• Neck Material – Maple.
• Weight – 2.87 pounds.

Review:

With its innovative SRT technology, the YSV104 offers a nearly identical resonance to traditional violins, making it ideal for serious practice. The lightweight design and practice features make it a favorite among students and professionals.

Verdict:

This violin is a must-have for those who need to practice quietly without sacrificing sound quality.

This Product is Perfect For:

• Students and professionals.
• Musicians who require silent practice.
• Players transitioning from acoustic to electric violins.

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3. Pyle PEGVLN33

Why Someone Should Buy:

This kit is ideal for beginners who need everything in one package. Its solid construction and included accessories make it a great value.

Technical Features:

• Size – 23.6 x 7.9 x 3.2 inches.
• Material – Maple top and back.
• String Type – Alloy steel strings.
• Operation – Electric with volume control.
• Finish – Polished sunburst finish.
• Accessories – Bow, case, rosin, headphones.

Review:

This full-size electric violin kit by Pyle offers an all-in-one solution for beginners, including a violin case, bow, headphones, and even a digital tuner. Its solid European maple construction delivers a rich sound, and its sunburst finish adds a stylish touch.

Verdict:

This is an excellent starter kit for beginners looking for a high-quality electric violin with all the necessary accessories.

This Product is Perfect For:

• Beginners.
• Musicians who want a complete starter kit.
• Those looking for an affordable option with good sound quality.

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4. Kinglos Flowers DSG1201

Why Someone Should Buy:

Kinglos offers both visual and musical appeal in one instrument, making it perfect for musicians who want a personalized instrument that doesn’t compromise on quality.

Technical Features:

• Top Material – Hand-carved spruce.
• Back Material – Solid maple.
• String Material – Magnesium-aluminum alloy.
• Pick-up System – VPU-300 active pick-up.
• Power Source – 9V alkaline battery.
• Finish Type – Varnish.
• Bow Material: Carbon Fiber

Review:

The patented coloring technology gives this violin a distinct visual appeal, while its spruce body and ebony fingerboard ensure high-quality sound. The comprehensive outfit is a bonus for new players.

Verdict:

The Kinglos Flowers is ideal for those who want an eye-catching yet functional electric violin.

This Product is Perfect For:

• Intermediate players.
• Musicians who value visual design.
• Players seeking a complete outfit.

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5. Vangoa 3/4 Electric Violin

Why Someone Should Buy:

This violin is perfect for those on a budget who still want a quality instrument. Its versatile build makes it suitable for various musical styles.

Technical Features:

• Size – 3/4.
• Top Material – Maple, mahogany, basswood.
• Back Material – Mahogany, basswood.
• String Material – Alloy steel.
• Number of Strings – 4.
• Operation Mode – Electric.

Review:

The Vangoa electric violin provides excellent value, offering decent sound quality and features typically found in more expensive models. It’s ideal for musicians on a budget.

Verdict:

This is a great choice for beginners or intermediate players looking for an affordable electric violin.

This Product is Perfect For:

• Budget-conscious musicians.
• Beginners.
• Players seeking versatility in sound control.

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6. Cecilio 4/4 CEVN-2BL

Why Someone Should Buy:

The Cecilio electric violin is a great option for those who want a professional-quality instrument without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for quiet practice and performances. Its hand-carved solid maple wood body, along with premium features such as the Brazilwood bow and quality rosin, make it a good example of a professional-level instrument at an affordable price.

Technical Features:

• Size – Full-size 4/4.
• Material – Hand-carved solid maple body.
• Finish – Blue metallic varnish.
• String Material – Alloy steel strings.
• Bow Material – Brazilwood with Mongolian horsehair.
• Power – 9V alkaline battery.

Review:

Cecilio’s electric violin offers professional-level features at a fraction of the cost, making it a great option for both practice and performance. Its solid build ensures long-term durability.

Verdict:

This violin is a professional-level instrument at an affordable price, making it a top choice for serious players.

This Product is Perfect For:

• Advanced players.
• Professionals looking for a quiet practice instrument.
• Musicians seeking high-quality sound and build.

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7. Stagg EVN X-4/4 MBL

Why Someone Should Buy:

This electric violin is a solid choice for musicians who prioritize durability and reliable performance, whether for practice or live performances.

Technical Features:

• Body Material – Lacquered solid maple.
• Operation Mode – Electric.
• Number of Strings – 4.
• Controls – Tone and volume.
• Jacks – 1/8" headphone and output.
• Color – Metallic blue.

Review:

The Stagg EVN X-4/4 MBL is highly durable, making it ideal for musicians who need a reliable instrument for daily use or practice purposes. The included headphone pre-amp is perfect for quiet sessions.

Verdict:

This is a durable, reliable choice for those looking for an electric violin for daily use.

This Product is Perfect For:

• Students and professionals.
• Musicians who need a reliable practice instrument.
• Players seeking a durable and long-lasting violin.

Buyer's Guide for Choosing an Electric Violin

Electric violins have become increasingly popular, providing musicians with the ability to explore new soundscapes and play in various settings. Choosing your electric violin can be overwhelming, but focusing on a few key features can make the process easier.

Tone Quality

Tone quality is a key factor to consider when choosing an electric violin, just like with an acoustic one. One of the key differences between an electric violin and an acoustic violin is the ability to manipulate the sound electronically. Many electric violins come with built-in electronics that allow players to adjust volume and tone, giving them full control over their musical output. When considering the tone quality of an electric violin, it's important to look at the materials used in its construction. Violins made from high-quality woods, such as maple and spruce, tend to offer better sound quality and tone quality compared to those made from synthetic materials. Additionally, the type of pickup plays a significant role in the sound produced. A high-quality pickup will ensure a string violin has a clean signal with minimal interference, producing a sound that closely resembles an acoustic violin. The flexibility of tone manipulation in an electric violin also opens the door to a variety of musical genres. Whether you're playing classical music or experimenting with rock and pop, a good electric violin made with good tone control can adapt to various styles. With the right settings, you can easily switch between an electric screech and a warm, rich acoustic sound. This adaptability makes electric violins a fantastic option for musicians who want to explore different genres and settings.

Electric Instruments: Revolutionizing Sound

Electric instruments like the electric violin have revolutionized the music world by providing musicians with options that go beyond traditional boundaries. One of the major advantages of electric instruments is their ability to be played quietly. A silent violin allows musicians to practice quietly by using headphones. Additionally, the electric violin is perfect for live performances, as it can be connected to amplifiers or sound systems, providing a larger sound output that can fill an auditorium or concert hall. The sound produced by an electric violin can be manipulated using effects pedals and sound modifiers, allowing musicians to explore a wide range of tones and textures. This versatility makes electric violins an exciting choice for musicians looking to expand their repertoire and experiment with new sounds. In the world of electric instruments, the electric violin stands out for its unique ability to offer both the subtlety of a traditional violin and the power of amplified sound. Whether you're a beginner looking for a student electric violin or a professional musician in need of a high-performance instrument, electric violins range in style and functionality, making it easier to find the right one for your musical journey.

Acoustic Violins vs. Electric Violins: Key Differences

When deciding between acoustic violins and electric violins, it’s important to understand the key differences between these two types of instruments. Traditional acoustic violins rely on their hollow body to create sound, while electric violins use electronic pickups and amplifiers to generate their tone. While acoustic violins are often preferred for their warm and resonant acoustic sound, electric violins provide more versatility, especially when it comes to amplification and modification.

Traditional Violins vs. Solid Body Electric Violins

One of the major differences between traditional violins and solid body electric violins is how they produce sound. Traditional violins have a hollow body that resonates naturally, offering rich and full sound quality. In contrast, solid body instruments [like electric violins] don’t rely on their body to produce sound; instead, they use electronic components such as violin pickups to capture and amplify the sound. This makes electric violins ideal for live performances, as they are less likely to pick up feedback from external noise, making them a more stable option for amplified environments.

Why Choose an Electric Violin?

Many musicians opt for an electric violin because of its ability to switch between silent practice and amplified performance. As mentioned, silent violins are particularly useful for musicians who want to practice quietly without disturbing others, thanks to their built-in headphone jack and silent practice features. Some electric violin makers have even introduced acoustic electric violins, which combine the benefits of both the acoustic viola and electric acoustic instruments.

Electric Violins Range and Versatility

Electric violins come in a wide range of styles, from entry-level models for beginners to advanced options for professional violinists. Unlike acoustic guitars, which are known for producing feedback more readily than solid-body instruments, electric violins can be used in large venues without such issues. Additionally, using acoustic guitar amplifiers can help retain the pure sound quality that players might want when using electric violins. Depending on the electric signal and violin pickup used, players can manipulate their sound through effects pedals or dedicated sound systems. The adaptability of these violins also allows musicians to explore various genres, from classical music to rock, and even use them with other electric instruments like synthesizers or electric guitars. Ultimately, the choice between an acoustic violin and an electric violin depends on your specific needs as a musician. Whether you’re looking for a more versatile instrument that allows for amplified performances or a traditional sound that suits classical music, both types of violins offer unique advantages tailored to different playing styles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best electric violin for beginners?

For beginners, the Pyle Full-Size Electric Violin Kit is an excellent choice. It offers a complete package that includes essential accessories such as a tuner, headphones, and a case, making it easy to start playing right away. This student electric violin provides good sound quality at an affordable price, making it ideal for most entry level players. Additionally, the built-in preamp allows for easy amplification.

Can an electric violin produce the same sound as an acoustic violin?

While an electric violin can replicate the tone of an acoustic violin, there are some differences. Electric violins rely on pickups and amplifiers to produce sound, which can result in a slightly different timbre compared to a traditional acoustic violin. However, many electric violins are designed to offer a close approximation of the natural violin sound, especially when played through high-quality speakers or headphones. The ability to adjust tone and volume provides additional flexibility, making the electric violin a versatile option for various musical settings.

Do electric violins require any special equipment to play?

Yes, to play an electric violin, you will need an amplifier or headphones for sound output. Many electric violins come with a built-in headphone jack. Additionally, some models may require a pre-amp to amplify the sound properly. Effects pedals can also be used to enhance the sound and add a creative edge to your performance.

Can an electric violin produce the same sound quality as an acoustic violin?

While an electric violin offers a different playing experience than a real violin, it can replicate the sound of an acoustic violin with the help of high-quality electronics and pickups. However, the acoustic sound produced by traditional acoustic violins is often richer and more resonant due to their hollow bodies. Electric violins excel in amplified settings and allow for silent practice, making them a versatile option for both performance and quiet practice sessions.

What are the main differences between an electric violin and an electric guitar?

Both electric violins and electric guitars are electric instruments, but their construction and playing techniques differ significantly. Violinists typically focus on maintaining the tone quality and natural resonance of the instrument, while guitarists often use various effects pedals and amplifiers to shape the sound. Additionally, violins have four or sometimes five strings, while guitars usually have six.

Are silent violins good for advanced violinists who play classical music?

Yes, silent violins are an excellent option for advanced players, including those who specialize in classical music. While the acoustic sound of a silent violin may not be as resonant as that of traditional violins, they are designed to closely mimic the playing experience of an acoustic electric violin.

Conclusion

Choosing the best electric violin depends largely on your individual needs as a musician. Whether you're seeking a quiet practice instrument or one for live performances, these electric violins offer a range of options suitable for beginners and advanced players alike. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, finding the right electric violin can greatly enhance your musical journey. Enjoy experimenting with different sounds and exploring new musical styles as you find the perfect instrument for you.