D Z Strad Violin Model 101 Review [Is It A Superior Instrument?]

Does the D Z Strad Model 101 Outfit really deserve the high favor it gets among Suzuki students? In this exclusive review, we find out if it lives up to its reported strengths as a fine instrument worth purchasing.

D Z Strad Violin Model 101 Outfit Review: Buyers Rate It Near Perfect and Here’s Why

D Z Strad Violin Model 101 Outfit

D Z Strad Violin 101 Overview

The D Z Strad Violin Model 101 Violin Outfit is an affordable and user friendly violin that is packed surprising sound quality. Preferred by students and players who use the “Suzuki” method, the D Z Strad Violin comes in 9 size options ranging from 1/32 to 4/4.

Featuring aged tone woods and a quality varnish finish, the Model 101 should feel comfortable and inspiring in the hands of any player.

The company has made it s products available online since the end of 2017, and D Z Strad’s Model 101 Violin has quickly accumulated a strong reputation among players and buyers. The Model 101 is a hand made violin crafted from aged tonewoods and finished with a spirit varnish.

A favorite among Suzuki-style players and instructors, the budget friendly price shouldn’t scare away players looking for a quality violin. The warm round tone and classic looks make the Model 101 a must try violin for players on a budget.

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Who Is The D Z Strad Model 101 For?

With a sub-$300 price tag, the D Z Strad Model 101 is certainly fit for beginners and students in terms of price range. The wide variety of sizes available, nine total ranging from 1/32 size to 4/4 size, also make it an intriguing option for students whose hands may not be a perfect fit on a full or half-size violin.

However, the Model 101’s warm tones, comfortable hand-feel, and classic looks don’t make it a bad option for more experienced players who are looking to save money, or get an affordable backup or travel violin.

What Can You Expect to Find In the Box?

When you purchase the D Z Strad Model 101 Outfit, you certainly get a few extra things besides just the violin. The Model 101 comes with a trusty, carrying case that should get your new violin from point A to point B with no problems.

A simple, single bow comes with Model 101 that is quite nice despite the budget friendly price. Other extras include a shoulder pad and rosin but note that extra strings do not come with the Model 101 packages available for purchase.

Lastly, the violin does come strung, but the bridge may need to be set.

D Z Strad 101 Violin Features

The D Z Strad Model 101 Violin is not short on quality features, even if what’s in the box isn’t quite enough for you. The Model 101 features a Wittner-style tailpiece with four built-in fine tuners.

Lightweight tone woods make for a comfortable but resonant instrument, with a soft and comfortable hand-feel making it an ideal option for beginners.

While the tone woods certainly leave some room for improvement, especially in the hands of an experienced player, the Model 101’s features seem to line up nicely with the price.

The Model 101 also comes loaded with D’Addario Prelude strings set up on the hand carved body.

•     Aesthetically pleasing varnish finish
•     Quality D’Addario strings included
•     Lightweight and comfortable feel
•     Warm, full sounds
•     Quality bow included

Pros and Cons

D Z Strad Violin Model 101 Review

Read the Latest D Z Strad 101 Owner Reviews! >>

What Else Do You Need To Play The Model 101?

For beginners, pretty much every single thing you need comes right out of the box with the D Z Strad Model 101. Bow, rosin, shoulder pad and the to go case make it really easy for you to get everything out of the Model 101 you can.

Some players may hope for a second bow or extra strings included, but if you need a beginner set up than the Model 101 is ready to go out of the box.

Compare Other Violins and Beginner Packs

For comparison shoppers, there are a wide variety of options to check out, all above or below the D Z Strad Model 101’s price tag.

For a similarly priced beginner instrument with upgraded tone woods, check out the Ricard Brunnel G2 Violin Outfit. The high quality, hand carved instrument is made from Spruce, Maple, and Ebony.

Looking to save even more money but sacrifice a bit of quality? The Costzon Full Size Violin comes with the same essential items such as bow, case, and rosin as the Model 101 but for well under $100.

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The tone woods and bow might be a step down in quality, but some players will greatly appreciate the cost savings, especially if their student is hesitant to commit to the instrument.

Another slightly more expensive option, the Cremona SV-500 comes in four different sizes with improved tone woods like Flamed Maple, while still coming with all the essentials a beginning student would need.

For more information on suitable alternative instruments, check out our comprehensive violin buying guides here.

As a Budget and Beginner Friendly Violin, Is The D Z Strad Model 101 Right For You?

While the D Z Strad Violin Model 101 Outfit isn’t strictly for beginners, it’s certainly best suited for students. The Model 101 comes with everything you need to get playing right out of the box, even though you will have to follow the instructions to properly set the bridge and tune it up.

Generally, the quality of the tone woods and sound seems to be comparable to the middle of the road price point, making it a solid value for most beginners.

The Model 101’s understated but classic appearance makes it easy on the eyes, while the lightweight body and comfortable feel make it even easier on the hands. Overall, it’s a solid violin at a solid price, certainly worth checking out!

What Do D Z Model 101 Customers Think? >>