Tower Strings Midnight Violin Outfit

Overall Rating: 4.6/5

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Tower Strings Midnight Violin Review: Can You Really Get More Than You Pay For?

The Tower Strings Violin Outfit is an affordable beginner’s violin that comes outfitted with everything a new player might need. Even better, it’s unique all-black finish is sure to catch anyone’s eye.

Who Is this Violin Outfit For?

The Midnight Violin outfit is particularly ideal for novices and adult learners on the first or second level of play.

The package provides all the features they need to motivate them to practice with a beautiful instrument with good sound quality. it also makes a lovely present for children who are just beginning to play the violin.

Moreover, violin novices will surely benefit from using a better instrument such as this in the early days.

Still, for those who want to learn how to play the violin, The Midnight Violin Outfit makes for an excellent start before they’ll need to upgrade to a better instrument.

What’s Included?

The Midnight Violin outfit comes with everything you need in the first year of playing.

Opening the case, you’ll find a black brazilwood bow and Tower String rosin nestled neatly next to the violin.

Additionally, there’s an excellent shoulder rest, which is useful for long hours of playing, and an ultra-practice mute.

As a part of the standard equipment, you’ll also find a handy digital tuner and a polishing cloth.

Finally, all components come in a lightweight padded case with additional straps, two bow holders, and storage for papers and notes.

What Are Owners Saying? >>

Tower Strings Midnight Violin Features

If you’re a Suzuki or a NAfME student, the Midnight violin is undoubtedly the right instrument for you.

It’s a 4/4 full-size instrument made from traditional solid spruce and maple tonewoods.

For a more durable finish, the wood is covered with a stunning black varnish that looks like midnight sky, Under intense light, it presents subtle shades of blue.

The underlying construction and wood quality is good being dried for 24 months before the dark finish is added.

The fingerboard and fittings are made from fine quality ebony, with a black carbon tailpiece.

Adding to the overall presentation, even its Asian wood bridge is dyed black, giving the whole instrument a different feel to any other classic violin.

With black accessories, only the string will be visible, which creates a unique experience for the player and the audience.

The effective combination of the rounded bridge and Prelude or Fiddlerman Steel Core strings achieve a clear sound. Considering it’s still a student-level instrument, the overall projection of the violin is very stable.

Midnight Violin Highlights

• Beautiful all-black finish
• Great attention to detail
• Good structure
• High-quality carbon tailpiece
• Complete set of accessories

How to Get the Most Out of It

As mentioned, when you buy this violin through Fiddlershop it arrives fully set and ready to play out of the case.

If you check all the Midnight Violin Outfit reviews, you’ll not only find a lot of satisfied users, you’ll also know exactly what to expect.

Plus, with the help of the company’s excellent support, you can always ask for something specific, like a set of different strings or another bow.

With their expert recommendations and willingness to accommodate, you can end up with a fully customized instrument perfectly suited to your needs.

Tower Strings Midnight Violin Review: Key Points

Comparable Products to Consider

Wrapping Up, Is the Midnight Violin Outfit Right for You?

If you’ve been shopping around, you know sourcing the best instrument on a tight budget is far from easy, and takes time.

Although more affordable violins look plain, the Midnight Violin Outfit shows that you can indeed get more than what you pay for. Likewise, it is possible to own a stylish modern-looking instrument without having to spend a fortune.

Hopefully, after reading this in-depth Tower Strings Midnight Violin review, you have a better idea of how much this instrument has to offer, especially when the price and many positive reviews are considered.

Check Tower Strings Midnight Violin Availability >>

How Much is a Good Violin?

To answer this popular question, we’ve created a guide that will provide useful guidelines for choosing a good instrument for yourself, or someone who has just started playing the violin.

You can find violins that start from around $100, then go up to tens of thousands of dollars. As a result buyers often get confused when it comes to the relationship between quality and price.

Compare Fine Instruments

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Buyer’s Guide: What to Know When Purchasing a New Violin

There’s a lot to discuss regarding the various aspects that determine any violin’s price. From its build quality to accessories and sound quality, every violin is a mixture of multiple elements.

Depending on how you’ll use your instrument and how often you practice, you can decide whether an instrument is a worthwhile investment or just a hobby.

Craftsmanship

The craftsmanship of any violin is one of the best indicators of its quality and durability. A well-crafted instrument doesn’t have rough edges, and its varnish is impeccable.

When you see exquisitely carved scrolls and precise lines, that’s what a master luthier can create out of one chunk of wood.

To get the best wood, luthiers need to spend around $500. They then start working with the wood to create the body and neck of an instrument.

Sometimes, they use fine ebony to customize the fingerboard according to the future owner’s needs, or more likely, they’ll use a standard fingerboard.

One of the best examples of 100% fine ebony fingerboard, pegs, and fittings is the Fiddlerman Soloist outfit.

Fiddlerman Soloist Violin Outfit

Of course, depending on the amount of work, the average violin price can start at around $1,000 and rise to astronomical heights.

As far as beginners’ violins go, your budget should be between $1,000-$2,000 if you want a premium instrument.

Fortunately, there are several great violins and violin outfits that fit that budget.

Origin

For some, this might be a shock, but almost all modern instruments come from the Far East. In the period between 1995 and 2010, nearly all the violins came from Chinese workshops.

The only other country that still produces high-quality violins is Germany, but European violins are too expensive for most players.

Classification

One of the most common classifications among violin sellers is the method of grading instruments according to the level of technique

A beginner’s violin is usually a synonym for a low-grade and low-quality instrument. Before, they were made from substandard wood as their sound was nothing but average.

Typical violin classifications are: beginner, intermediate, advanced, and professional.

Today, there are much better and ideal for anyone unsure whether they want to pursue violin or it’s just a phase.

Students dedicated to playing the violin and who don’t have the means to get an expensive outfit can find various mid-range, fine quality instruments with many useful accessories.

What’s more, all of these violins have been checked by a violin master to ensure their suitability.

Violin Sizes

One of the critical features of any violin is its size because it determines whether you’ll play comfortably or you’ll struggle with every note.

The size depends on the average arm length, and even if a 4/4 is a full-size model for adult players, there are ones that use ¾ to give their best performance.

Children often start with the 1/32 model until they grow up and start using the full-sized instrument.

Violin Brands

When we compare the craftsmanship, sound quality, and price, several brands offer some of the best violins for beginner and intermediate violin students.

We’ll focus on seven of them to explain what makes them affordable.

Mendini

Are you’re looking for an affordable instrument? If so, you should see what Mendini has to offer.

With a fair price on a cheap student violin, they are among the most famous brands for beginners.

Mendini MV400 Violin Outfit

The company’s goal was to produce low-cost instruments with quickly replaceable strings and easy maintenance.

Mendini’s violins are factory-made, which means that their sound is not high-quality compared to handmade instruments.

Even so, they offer decent value for the money and are considered to be good beginner violins.

Cecilio

Originating on a ranch in California, the brand got its name from St Cecilia.

What makes Cecilio’s instruments stand out are the instrument sizes, as the smallest ones are 1/32, ranging up until the 4/4.

Cecilio CVN-500 Violin Outfit

This is what makes them an ideal choice for children as well as music students.

Cecilio violins are for players of all levels, from beginners to professionals.

Most music professionals and educators use Cecilio violins with their students as they produce a fantastic resonant sound.

Fiddlerman

Pierre Holstein started with testing and curating violins. Today, he’s two steps ahead of the competition because of the way the Fiddlershop helps customers find exactly what they’re looking for.

Fiddlerman Master Violin Outfit

The Fiddlershop currently offers hundreds of instruments, including many of their own, from some of the top violin brands like Ming Jiang Zhu, Scot Cao, Nicolo Gabrieli, and Peter White.

Scott Cao

Another brand with an excellent reputation among violinists is Scott Cao. Some of the finest handcrafted violins came out from their Chinese workshop.

Scott Cao 750 Violin

It’s considered one of the top violin brands with a wide range of instruments for novices and music professionals.

Should you decide to buy a Scott Cao instrument, you can rest assured you’re getting the best value for your money.

Stentor

Another famous brand is Stentor. Their violins come with top-quality accessories.

Stentor 1500 Violin

Stentor has been around since the early 19^th century, but they were mostly known for importing instruments.

Today, they’ve built a reputation among music educators. For that reason, a lot of children spend their first days learning how to play Stentor violins.

Yamaha

Yamaha is a Japanese brand know for a variety of instruments, not only violins.

However, their instruments are not for the beginner and intermediate players as it takes a lot of skill and knowledge to play them.

The standard Yamaha violin is suitable for music scholars and advanced students, or professional violinists.

Yamaha V3 Series Student Violin Outfit

Some of their best violin models are inspired by well-known violins created in Europe by great luthiers.

They have a modern look, but they’ve managed to keep some exquisite features.

Knilling

If you’re looking for a classical student violin, the brand everyone will mention is Knilling.

They created a workshop in 1922 and soon became one of the most favored brands among violin students and adult learners.

All of their products go through thorough inspections, and they dispatch their instruments customized and tuned.

Knelling 11VN Sebastian Violin

An average violin price is far from low as this brand guarantees the quality of their instruments.

That’s why if you decide to get one of their violins, make sure you order their famous pegs.

Violin Prices and Ranges

When it comes to prices, the differences between similar-looking products could be thousands of dollars.

If you start searching for a new or upgrade violin, you need to know what to look for.

Depending on the brand, craftsmanship, and features, the prices can vary. Nonetheless, we can give you a rough idea of what to expect.

Violins up to $500

If you are devoted to learning the violin, you can find a decent factory-made instrument in this price range.

When you’re looking for a low-cost violin, you might find a few surprisingly good models for up to $500, but we don’t recommend going under $300.

Keep in mind that when your technique improves, you’ll have to consider upgrading for better sound and projection.

Violins Between $500 and $1000

You can find excellent student violins that feature quality strings, fingerboard, and sound significantly better in this price range.

You can opt for a violin outfit that includes all necessary equipment like a bow, rosin, tuner, and a hard case. Students usually start with outfits and later upgrade only their instrument.

Depending on your progress and budget, you can’t go wrong with Fiddlerman Artist Outfit or Scott Cao 017 Outfit.

Over $1,000

Once you’re serious about playing the violin, it’s probably the best time to choose a more serious instrument.

Around $1,000 is the best violin price for a student or semi-professional musician.

In this bracket, you can get nicely crafted instruments that allow you to develop your technique and use them in an orchestra or for a solo performance.

Violins $2,000 and Up

The more you spend on a violin, the more you’ll have to practice achieving the best sound quality.

If you’re serious about committing your time to it, your technique will advance faster than on a cheap instrument.

If a violin costs more than $2,000, that means luthiers made it with precision by hand.

Exceptionally skilled artisans, such as Nicolo Gabrieli, Peter White, Francesco Pierotti, Klaus Heffler plus many others, spend significant time and energy making these superb instruments.

Klaus Heffler La Passione Violin

Guide to Finding a Good Violin

Once you’ve decided to pursue the violin as your preferred instrument, you might wonder what constitutes a good violin for your specific needs?

In this guide, we’ll summarize everything you should look for in a good violin. Plus, we’ll show you some of the best-reviewed violins and violin outfits.

Violin Build Quality

Like any other physical product made by people, the quality of materials and amount of hands-on time put into an instrument will be reflected in it’s price.

Therefor, a good quality violin built by skilled professionals should have a reasonable balance of the two.

Wooden Violins

Wood is the essence of every violin. The older the wood, the better the sound will be. Usually, luthiers use maple and spruce that has been dried for at least five years.

However, the wood has to be dried for more than ten years to be considered a premium instrument.

Maple has a specific texture with flame-like lines, and you can see how wonderful it looks on a premium instrument like Ming Jiang Zhu 907 Violin.

Ming Jiang Zhu 907 Violin

Some violins are even made from pear wood or two wood types for a more refined look.

Composite Violins

Nowadays, you can also find different types of violins made from carbon composite like the Glasser Carbon Composite and don’t have any wooden parts.

Glasser Carbon Composite Violin

They require a similar amount of menial work as the handmade violins, but the materials are mostly polyurethane foam and carbon composite.

For many, carbon is a quality alternative to wood as it offers a lot of possibilities for instrument development.

Key Points of Well Built Violins

What’s excellent about well-built violins is that their worth is slowly rising; therefore, they are a sound investment.

After ten or twenty years, the instrument will either hold or significantly increase in value.

One of the best aspects of owning a beautifully made instrument is the quality of its varnish.

Whether you prefer red violins like Holstein’s Traditional Red Mendelssohn violin or high-quality yellow varnish, all of them have a refined look that you can’t replicate on cheaper models.

Holstein Traditional Red Mendelssohn Violin

Another lovely example of a wood pattern is Ming Jiang Zhu 909 violin, one of the best violins from Ming Jiang Zhu’s workshop.

Top Features

• Beautiful varnish
• Strong body
• Lifetime warranty
• Growing value
• Slow aging process

Build Qualities to Look For

Overall, all models will feel relatively strong once you take them in your hands. Granted, they’ll move while you play them, but that’s one of the best qualities of aged wood.

Another upside of these valuable instruments is their superior sound that has layers and deep overtones.

With radiant and joyful projection, the sound you’ll hear can’t compare with violins made from other materials or cheaper wood.

That’s why the best violins shine on solo performances, in string quartets, or with an orchestra.

Only in front of an audience will a well-made, handcrafted instrument show its depth and real value.

What You Should Be Aware Of

When you take everything into account, it’s more than sensible that a premium-quality instrument can’t have the same price as one made from cheap components and assembled in a factory.

That’s why an average violin price rises depending on the materials used.

Another downside of wooden instruments is their sensitivity to humidity, rain, or extreme warmth or cold.

Fine wooden instruments need extra care to guard against the elements.

That’s why you’ll hardly ever hear and see pricey violins outside, as they’re mostly used in concert halls.

Lastly, maintenance is a rather big issue since wood changes over time, and you’ll have to polish it regularly to maintain the color and fine lines.

Build Quality in Summary

Sound Quality

If you were wondering how much a violin costs, it often has a lot to do with sound quality.

Since you now have electric and acoustic violins, this question becomes even more complicated.

Overview

The real difference between the sound of the student-quality violin and a professional one makes all the difference to the audience and the performer.

It depends on the quality of wood, or in the case of the electric violin – the amplifier.

Inexpensive student violins often sound good in small rooms or enclosed spaces, but once they’re in a concert hall, it becomes hard to dazzle everyone with their sound.

Violins that cost more than $2,000, like the Sima Traian Violin, produce a beautiful sound in all ranges and spectrums, and their projection is robust even in a large concert hall.

What matters most for electric violins is the volume intensity, and once they’ve set the amplifier and all the equipment, everyone will be able to enjoy the sound.

Its properties are different from the wooden instrument, but they’re great at concerts or outside performances.

In terms of sound qualities like tone color, beginner violins are one-dimensional, while more expensive instruments are far more versatile.

What’s more, they sound solid even when they’re playing deep tones, and noticeably, they can easily switch registers.

Key Points Regarding Sound Quality

Every violinist wants to play an instrument that offers room for experiment and trying out new techniques.

Wooden instruments like Holstein Workshop by Ming Jian Zhu Violin are more expensive, but they encourage virtuosity.

Holstein Workshop by Ming Jiang Zhu Violin

Electric violins are slightly sturdier, and their sound is more aggressive.

Bottom line – it’s a matter of preference whether you enjoy one instrument or the other.

However, as long as the sound you’re creating is complicated and nuanced, you are holding the right instrument.

Best Features

• Great sound uplifts any performance
• Strong projection
• Provides clear tone
• No unpleasant sounds
• Warm undertones

What to Consider Regarding Sound Quality

Overall, the more expensive the violin, the better the sound. If you apply this way of thinking, you can’t go wrong.

You should consider every violin’s brand and origin and the type of wood used to ensure you’re getting the best instrument.

What To Be Aware Of

For many people, the quality of sound is very arbitrary and subjective to the individual. While some music educators and players agree on the basics, there’s no consensus.

Sound Quality in Summary

Violin Accessories

When you’re looking to buy or upgrade your violin, the second thing you need to check is its accessories.

How much a good violin costs is also determined by the quality of features and the brand.

Violin accessories are there to help musicians uplift their performances and use their instruments to their full capacity.

The use of accessories helped beginners to enhance their playing skills and learn new ones.

At the moment, every violin comes with around sixteen accessories that have become a standard in the industry.

The Bow

The first and, according to some people, the most essential addition of all is the bow.

The bow, though technically an accessory, is in fact a critical component requiring just as much consideration as the instrument itself. It’s essentially an extension of the violin.

While entry-level and intermediate kits will include bows for the price-point, individual premium bows will often cost many hundreds of dollars.

JonPaul Carrera Violin Bow

In use, the bow creates a mellow sound when you move it over the strings. In construction it has five different components that make it strong and light.

Regardless of the variety of materials used to make bows like carbon, bamboo, boxwood, or Brazilian wood, they all work the same way.

One of the notable features of any well-made bow is the quality of its hair, which usually comes from horse.

Depending on the breed, horse hair can be silky or slightly brittle, and of course, the hair has to be taut, but it mustn’t be too tight, or it will break.

Dealing with the pressure correctly and learning how to apply it on the strings is essential for sound quality.

Usually, students learn about fixing the bow in their first violin lessons, and it remains one of the most important aspects of any performance.

Violin Rosin

Rosin’s primary function is to keep the bow’s hair highly frictional. That’s why it’s essential to use it regularly so that your bow won’t slip from the wires and create an unpleasant sound.

Bernardel Rosin For Violin – Viola – Cello

Once the player has more experience, they can continue playing without an unpleasant, squeaky noise.

Case

Since violins are extremely sensitive, a case is a must-have item. They come in distinctive designs, shapes, and sizes as they need to store your instrument and everything else you need to play it.

Usually, you can place one bow, violin, notes, strings, maintenance kit, rosin, and whatever else you might need.

However, in the case you can get with Fiddlerman Master Violin Outfit, you have space for up to four bows and several other accessories.

Fiddlerman Oblong Violin Case FC50

Basically, there are two options to choose from: a case or a backpack. For people who travel from one concert to another, backpacks are often more comfortable as they can store many other things.

Most of the cases are a bit more stylish and made from waterproof materials to protect your instrument and everything else you have in the bag.

Chin Rest

This accessory is vital as it provides a comfortable place to put your chin. It’s attached to the violin and facilitates long hours of pain-free playing.

Guarneri Violin Chinrest

Shoulder Rest

The shoulder rest is an additional cushion to make sure you’re comfortable while playing.

It’s made from cotton, wood, or plastic, and it has soft lines to allow the violin to sit comfortably between your shoulder and chin.

Kun Original Violin Shoulder Rest

It’s not always easy to find the perfect shoulder rest, so be sure to find one that suits you best.

Both children and adult violin players use them to prevent shoulder or back pain after long hours of practicing.

Violin Strings

One of the essential elements that determine the sound of your instrument is violin strings. Different wires can produce an entirely different feeling on the same instrument.

Thomastik Dominant Violin String Set

It heavily depends on the materials, quality, and gauge. Before buying strings, make sure you do your research and know how everything will sound with those wires.

On modern violins, you’ll usually get an instrument equipped with strings, but you might need something different.

Tailpiece

Another valuable accessory that secures strings and holds them in their place is the tailpiece.

Its position and grip are heavily influenced by the wires. Plus, it’s great for correcting the overall sound and vibration of the strings.

Harp Model Ebony Professional Violin Tailpiece

The tailpiece is often used to improve the resonance, and that’s why violinists have at least four or five tailpieces depending on what they’re playing.

As tailpieces are made from wood, ebony, or even carbon, they can enhance your violin’s appearance. Depending on their shape and weight, your violin can look quite different.

Bundled Accessories

Nowadays, there’s an abundance of brands that sell accessories for good beginner violins, and it can be hard to find one brand that gives you all the best features.

If you feel overwhelmed, you can buy a complete outfit and get all of them with your violin.

With outfits like the Fiddlerman Symphony Outfit or Tower Strings Rockstar Violin Outfit, you’re getting everything you need.

Luckily for you, once you buy most of the accessories, they will last for years.

Since most of them are made from hardened and resistant materials, you might have to change some of them after years of constant use.

In the case of the Mendini MV400, you can get two bows. If one accidentally breaks, you can use the other one.

Mendini MV400 Violin Outfit

But before you start using them, be sure to customize them to fit your performance style and sound.

Getting the Right Accessories

Every accessory influences the performance and sound of your violin. More specifically, to get a rounded and warm sound, you’ll need to get a lot of things right.

However, if you still don’t have enough experience to do it, every violin you purchase from the Fiddlershop will have everything set up for you.

All you need to do is choose or ask for their recommendations.

Best Features

• Improve the playing technique
• Make sound more resonant
• Easy and comfortable to play
• Ensure that the strings are in tune
• Protect the instrument from water and harsh weather

What to Look For in Accessories

Accessories are essential for any good violin. With the wrong strings or a bow that’s too heavy, you won’t be able to hone your violin’s potential.

Keep in mind that high-quality accessories keep your instrument in decent shape while you’re practicing your skills.

What You Should Be Aware Of

If you’re a beginner, it’s hard to find the best accessories on the first try. In terms of individual components, it takes time and effort to figure out what works best for most learners.

Of course, you need to know how to use a tailpiece or bow to make sure you’re using it the right way.

Accessories in Summary

Violin FAQ

What Is the Price of a Good Violin?

Depending on the overall prices, different violins suit players with varying levels of skill. For a beginner, a reasonable violin costs on average between $500 and $1,000.

Once you start practicing more and working on your playing technique, you can reconsider updating your violin with better strings and bow.

Any advanced student usually leans towards specific brands that offer handmade instruments with premium features like an ebony fingerboard and pegs, high-quality strings, and fine tuners.

Playing a more refined instrument can significantly improve your technique while you and your audience can appreciate a warmer sound with rich overtones.

How Much Should I Pay for a Beginner’s Violin?

Depending on your budget and options, we can say that a beginner’s violin is in the violin price range between $300 and $700.

Keep in mind that anything above $500 is considered a good violin, and the ones below that limit are fine for those who never had prior experience with the instrument.

Violins for children are much less expensive due to size and price expectations.

When it’s about how much a violin for children costs, most of them come at a fraction of the price since they’re significantly smaller than a full 4/4 model.

That’s how you can buy a perfect instrument for a lesser price.

How Much Does a Professional Violin Cost?

A professional violin can cost anywhere from $2,000 and significantly more. The price can rise to several hundreds of thousands for antique instruments.

Hilary Hahn’s J.B. Vuillaume, 1865

Those prices are different depending on the different types of violins, their origin, the master luthier that made them, and the brand.

What’s the Best Violin for Beginners?

There are many instruments suitable for new violinists from various brands, but those that music teachers often recommend are Mendini, Cecilio, and Fiddlerman.

They should be simple instruments that are easy to use.

Some of the best low price violins for novices are Mendini MV400 and Mendini MV300, as well as others since you’re getting all necessary amenities for around $100.

If you’re willing to get a considerably better outfit and a good instrument, another recommendation is the Fiddlerman Apprentice Violin Outfit.

Fiddlerman Apprentice Violin Outfit

The outfit features Fiddlerman Violin strings, a carbon fiber bow, and a nice oblong case that will protect your instrument.

For adult novices, the options are almost limitless. Hopefully, you’re spending around $1,000 because that’s how much a starter violin cost for an average adult player.

Are Cheap Violins Any Good?

Cheap violins are usually made in factories from low-quality pieces of wood.

Since the production costs are relatively low and there’s little hand labor involved, many don’t have any character or specific sound.

Cheap violins will not have as good a sound or quality as higher value instruments. As with anything, you get what you pay for.

They are suitable for novices to practice posture and technique, but as soon as they start advancing, a new violin would allow them to grow faster.

Why Are Good Violins So Expensive?

The craftsmanship that a good violin requires is the reason why its price is so high.

Since all premium instruments are handmade, that means that a luthier spends hundreds of hours making sure that every detail on it is perfect.

That’s why it’s the price has to be higher than factory-made instruments.

Another vital aspect is expensive accessories that will help the violin correctly adjust to its new player.

When you combine all the intricacies and details, it becomes clear that achieving excellent quality requires a lot of work.

Do Violins Hold Their Value After Some Time?

Student violins hardly keep their value because those instruments don’t have anything exquisite about them.

With more expensive violins that came out respectable workshops, you might get a better deal after a few decades, but often those price differences can be surprisingly small.

A good brand-name violin or fine instrument will always have a reasonable resale value.

On the other hand, quartet musicians and orchestra players’ professional violins can be worth up to six figures because they come from some of the best luthiers’ hands.

Lastly, violins worth the most were made in the 18^th century by Italian masters.

Final Thoughts on Violin Prices

Buying a violin can be a lengthy process, especially when you’re unsure what to buy and where.

You’ll have to spend some time researching to make sure you’re getting the best instrument that suits both your needs and budget.

And when it comes to figuring out how much a good violin costs, we’ll have to conclude that it depends on the player’s needs and requirements, as well as the quality of build and accessories.

Many known brands whose violins are premium quality offer mid-range prices.

When it’s time to purchase your violin, remember to check the size you need and whether you want to get a violin outfit or only the instrument.

Of course, make sure that you’ve heard the instrument’s sound and that it’s appropriate for your skill level.

Listen to the instrument and use your ears to guide you toward the models you’ll be willing to settle for.

Of course, the most challenging part will be to assess your budget and make the right decision.

Fiddlerman Soloist Violin Outfit

Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5

Fiddlerman Soloist Violin Review

As soon as you take the Fiddlerman Soloist Violin in your hands, you’ll notice that it’s a premium product.

This violin comes from a renowned GCV workshop with a reputation for building some of the best on the market.

Overall, the Soloist Violin is definitely an instrument for advanced violin players as only a seasoned violinist will appreciate its premium features and craftsmanship.

Who Is the Fiddlerman Soloist Violin For?

Instruments like the Soloist Violin require more technique than it might seem at first glance. And that’s why this instrument is best suited for experienced musicians with an advanced playing technique.

Even the smaller versions are not recommended for children as their first instrument but rather as a second one.

On account of its sound qualities and price, Fiddlerman’s Soloist is perfect for live performances. Accordingly, experienced players can use it to the fullest in a string quartet or a big orchestra.

With a focused and brilliant projection, it’s excellent for fast passages or solo variations.

What’s Included in the Outfit?

When you decide to purchase this outfit, you can choose between four violin sizes. The instrument comes with two different varnishes: “Red-Brown” and “Medium Brown.”

If you’re a fan of red undertones, the former would be the best choice for you. You can choose your case color and decide whether you fancy a dark gray or a sand-color finish.

Among other features, you’ll get a well-balanced Fiddlerman carbon fiber bow, Oblong Violin Case FC75, and Holstein Premium rosin that give a nice texture to the bow’s hair.

As part of the Fiddlerman standard violin outfit, this package includes a rubber practice mute, polishing cloth, and Fiddlerman digital tuner.

Fiddlerman Soloist Violin Outfit Features

This violin is one of the best in its price range. It’s entirely hand-carved from premium-quality spruce and maple more than 12 years old.

It also features an exceptional hand-carved French Despiau bridge and an ebony fingerboard, pegs alongside precise fittings. All these features are state-of-the-art, which you don’t see in standard violins.

On top of that, it comes with Thomastik Vision strings that work well with its airy carbon fiber bow. That’s how you can get warm tones in the lower registry and light ones in the upper registry.

The Soloist Violin Outfit comes with some pleasant surprises as well. With a sturdy but not too heavy FC75 case, you’ll have a safe place for your violin and additional equipment.

As mentioned, you can get it in two stylish colors: a dark gray and an elegant sand color. There’s enough space in the case to store four bows, and it features exterior upholstery for a better feel while you’re wearing it.

Fiddlerman Soloist Highlights

• High-quality boxwood fittings
• Premium Despian bridge
• Two types of varnish
• Good sound projection
• Comfortable and elegant case

Using the Soloist Violin

What makes this outfit so outstanding is that you can start playing it right out of the box. Since Fiddlerman instruments have to pass a rigorous inspection before they’re shipped, you won’t have to do any additional tuning.

As this outfit includes everything you need to enjoy the Soloist’s warm and sharp sound, you won’t have to spend on any additional features.

Key Points to Consider

Other Violin Outfits to Consider

Fiddlerman Master Violin Outfit

Scott Cao 750 Violin

Ming Jiang Zhu 905 Violin

Final Thoughts: Is the Fiddlerman Soloist Violin Worth the Extra Money?

In this Fiddlerman Soloist Violin Outfit review, we’ve demonstrated that it’s not only a state-of-the-art instrument, but includes accessories that make it an excellent choice for any intermediate or advanced violin player.

With lovely red tin that accentuates the wood grain and ebony details, this violin has all hallmarks that a serious musician needs. Plus, it’s fittings and measurements are spot on, especially if you’re using Thomastik Vision strings.

The case offers enough room to use four different bows, but the carbon bow with horsehair will be more than enough for most semi-professionals and professionals. In the outfit, you can also find Holstein Premium rosin and a Fiddlerman tuner for e-string.

Lastly, any player would benefit from playing an instrument as delicate as the Fiddlerman Soloist Violin. The musicians who will fully appreciate it are those with advanced technique and the ability to use its powerful projection to the fullest.

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Fiddlerman Artist Violin Outfit Review: Is It A Good Mid-Level Instrument?

Fiddlerman Artist Outfit Ratings at a Glance:

Fiddlerman Artist Violin Outfit

Artist Violin Outfit Overview

Many violin students find themselves in a tricky situation when it comes to choosing a new instrument.In our Fiddlerman Artist Violin Outfit review, we’ll see whether it’s the right choice for music students and whether it’s suitable for their needs.

Regardless of its price, the Artist Violin Outfit features everything that an average violin student requires. It’s made from hand-carved spruce with a subtle spirit-based finish that gives it just the right color.

The instrument is preset with a properly fitted bridge and pegs. The carbon bow can feel a bit sturdy initially, but you’ll get used to it after just a few minutes of playing.

Who is the Artist Outfit Best Suited For?

The Fiddlerman Artist Violin is one of the most recommended for music students and orchestra players. Since they spend a fair amount of time commuting and take their violins everywhere they go, this model offers a compact outfit.

Packed with all the necessary equipment like rosin, tuner, and cloth in one place, you won’t have to think about making many additions. Plus, this fFddlerman violin provides clear and rich sound, ideal for long practice hours.

This model also meets the needs of former enthusiasts who wish to restore their playing skills.

When it comes to professionals, they might find the Artist Violin a bit one-dimensional in sound. Indeed, if you’re a seasoned music artist, you’ll probably want to go for something that has more character.

The Artist Violin comes at an affordable price without too many compromises in terms of quality materials. Students and adult beginners believe it offers excellent value for the money.

What’s Included with the Outfit?

Even if it doesn’t have all the premium features, the Fiddlerman Artist Violin Outfit has more than enough for both novices and more experienced players. This outfit includes a ready-to-play instrument, a carbon fiber bow, D’Addario Kaplan Amo, or Zyex strings.

It comes with over and above the equipment that its price point might suggest. And it includes a Fiddlerman Wood shoulder rest, Holstein Premium rosin, polishing cloth, rubber practice mute, and an AV10 digital tuner.

The case itself has multiple pockets and compartments, straps to secure the instrument on your shoulder, and enough space to store everything you need to have it with you at all times.

Fiddlerman Artist Violin Outfit Features

Every Fiddlerman violin is known for its rich and vivid sound, and the Artist Violin is no exception. Due to the spruce and maple, the resonance is excellent for both classical and modern music performances.

With D’Addario Kaplan Amo strings, you’ll enjoy a deep rich tone that will add another layer to any composition.

In terms of comfort, you’ll notice how easy it is to hold and to play it, even if you have it in your hands for more than 40 hours every week.

The Fiddlerman Artist is crafted to sit nicely on your chin without any pressure on your shoulder, and the carbon fiber bow is more durable than any Brazilwood that you might find in the same price range.

Since every Fiddlerman violin has to be impeccable, they’ve developed a system of ten points that every instrument has to pass. That’s why every violin comes with a certificate of excellence and a lifetime structural warranty.

Fiddlerman Artist Violin Highlights

Here are some of the best features that you’ll get with the Fiddlerman Artist Violin:

• Lightweight antique wood violin
• Precisely measured string height
• Ebony fittings
• Hand rubbed sprit finish that accentuates the wood texture
• Carbon fiber bow with Mongolian horsehair

How to Get the Most from the Artist Violin

As with most violins, this model will require additional tuning before playing. However, since it will arrive with a tuner, you can have it ready in a few minutes.

It’s available in four sizes, and like any Fiddlerman instrument, it comes with a lifetime structural warranty. Furthermore, the Artist Violin was set up and tested so that you can start playing as soon as it arrives.

Fiddlerman Artist Outfit Key Points

Other Violins to Have Keep Mind

Is the Fiddlerman Artist Violin Outfit the Right Choice for You?

Once we consider everything, the Fiddlerman Artist Outfit is probably one of the best instruments for music academy students or serious orchestra players.

Even if it’s not among the budget-friendly options, its body is made from seven-year-old wood, creating a sound that you won’t hear in any other competitor model. That’s what makes Fiddlerman violins so unique – the right materials.

Whether you’re a music student or an enthusiast, this instrument will upgrade your learning experience and allow you to develop as a musician.

With outstanding performance and high-quality materials, it’s one of the best value violins around. The Artist Violin Outfit can cater to anyone that appreciates beauty and toughness combined.

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The Glasser Carbon Violin at a Glance:

Glasser Carbon Composite Violin

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Overview

The Glasser Carbon Composite Violin’s design is unusual for many players as it feels like it’s a different instrument.

However, once you start playing, you’ll notice that you can play it without fear of damage regardless of the weather conditions or your location. And that’s why it’s one of the best choices for fiddling and outdoor performance.

The idea behind this unorthodox material choice is that wooden violins are too sensitive to use outside. With a carbon box that’s almost impossible to break or scratch, you can use your violin wherever you want.

Plus, if you’re a novice, you won’t have to spend too much time taking care of the wood or the instrument itself.

Who Is This Composite Violin Best Suited for?

The Glasser Carbon Composite violin is excellent for beginners and music teachers who often use their instruments and repeat the same moves and melodies.

Due to its resilience, this instrument is almost indestructible, making it an ideal starter violin in music schools, orchestras, and bands.

Obviously, seasoned musicians and professional violin soloists will most likely find this violin less interesting than violins from Holstein or the Ming Jian Zhu workshops.

However, if they’re traveling or want to play while camping, this instrument gives them more liberty than a traditional model.

On the other hand, violinists who want to use it for fiddling will see all the benefits of carbon composite. Even if they’re going to play outside during warm summer nights or in a bar full of people, a carbon violin won’t change its sound properties.

Glasser is a world leader in developing instruments using composite materials that make them far more resilient and durable than any wooden string instrument.

What are You Getting with the Glasser Violin?

You can buy only the Glasser Carbon Fiber violin or opt for an outfit upgrade that includes additional equipment. The outfit features a backpack violin case, Glasser 203SH fiberglass bow, tuner, rosin, and polishing cloth.

Instrument Features

Glasser violins are constructed to last as their body is weather and scratch-resistant. The fingerboard, pegs, and scroll are also made from carbon composite to make it more lightweight and well-balanced.

It’s a useful instrument for exercising string limits and intensive performances. It comes equipped with Larsen strings and Planetary pegs for tuning stability.

The carbon composite body doesn’t imitate wood, and designers made it in a red and black version. When compared to traditional wooden violins, the Glasser Carbon is a bit heavier at 565 grams.

It doesn’t influence the performance too much, although professional performers find it hard to get used to.

The sound of the Glasser Carbon Composite violin is one of its most essential aspects. Together with Larson strings, a carbon violin tends to have a deeper and darker sound than a traditional violin.

Its projection has less impact on the audience, but since the higher registry’s sound quality is sharp, numerous performers successfully use it like a fiddler.

This instrument probably won’t be anyone’s first choice for a solo performance or concert due to its sound properties. However, violin novices will appreciate its sturdiness as it allows them to practice everywhere.

Glasser Violin Highlights

• Revolutionary carbon body
• Perfectly figured
• Easy to carry around
• Great for outdoor performances
• Resilient and solid

Getting the Most Out of Glasser’s Carbon Fiber Violin

One of the Glasser Carbon Composite violin’s best features is that it requires just a few simple adjustments, and you can play it as soon as it arrives.

If you order it with any outfit, you’ll have everything ready to practice or perform and enjoy its dark and moody sound.

Key Points to Consider

Comparable Violins Worth a Look

Fiddlerman Concert Violin Outfit

Fiddlerman Artist Violin Outfit

Glasser AEX Acoustic Electric Violin

Is the Glasser Violin Right for You?

In this Glasser Carbon Composite violin review, we’ve tried to show you all the benefits of owning a reliable carbon composite instrument.

Not only does it allow you to perform outside, in the rain, sun, or at the beach, but you can do so without fear of compromising the instrument’s structural integrity.

This sturdy violin comes fully equipped with Planetary pegs for stability and Larsen strings for a solid projection. It does take time to get used to playing it, mostly if you’ve always played on wooden instruments.

Lastly, due to its price, this violin is accessible to everyone from novice players who love traveling and want to take their violin wherever they go. It’s a low maintenance instrument with a modern look that will undoubtedly draw attention.

Check Today’s Glasser Carbon Composite Violin Price! >>

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The Fiddlerman Apprentice Violin In Review: Is It The Best Outfit For Novices?

Apprentice Outfit ratings at a glance:

Fiddlerman Apprentice Violin Outfit

Overview of the Fiddlerman Apprentice Violin

The Apprentice Violin Outfit is one of Fiddlerman’s most popular entry-level violin outfits due to its affordable pricing and high-quality playing accessories. It also competes directly with one of Fiddlerman’s better Concert series, at least in terms of sound and tuning retention.

Yet it is a limited violin in terms of how long you can play on it before you need something better to improve sound and get more longevity out of an instrument.

Fiddlerman Apprentice Violin

Who is the Apprentice Outfit for?

If not already evident from its name, the Fiddlerman Apprentice Violin is a must-have for beginners. It can be used at all ages, since it comes in the four standard sizes from 4/4 to ¼. Therefore, it’s suitable for the youngest practitioners too.

The violin caters to players with limited budgets and those just learning or still learning the instrument. It’s a first violin but not a second violin as it offers very little as a transitional instrument.

And since this is a complete outfit, it clearly works for anyone that doesn’t have a case or bow lying around.

What’s Included in the Fiddlerman Apprentice Outfit?

Although it doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles of many beginner violin kits, the Fiddlerman Apprentice Outfit does have everything you need to start learning the instrument; a quality carbon fiber bow is included.

A case with multiple pockets and compartments is also included. The case features enough straps for ensuring a snug fit. Fiddlerman also adds their own rosin, practice mute, polishing cloth, and shoulder rest, along with the strings.

But only the 4/4 style outfit comes with Fiddlerman strings as fractional sizes feature Prelude strings.

Review of the Apprentice Outfit Features

• Carbon fiber bow
• Hard case for storage and travel
• Five years minimum dried wood
• Fiddlerman strings

The Apprentice Violin is a reliable starter instrument for players of all ages. Its measurements are accurate and ensure a comfortable feel and ease when it comes to learning proper techniques.

Although it lacks resonance and projection, the violin makes up for that with great tuning retention and impressive build quality for its price range. It also helps that the outfit containing the violin is rounded-up by very good accessories.

For example, the carbon fiber bow is strong and responsive and much better than the common Brazilwood bows, typical at this price point. Even the Siberian horsehair is smooth and forgiving enough.

The shoulder rest seems comfortable enough and is a lot more durable than most plastic alternatives. Even the wood, dried for five years, is a surprising addition in a budget-friendly student violin outfit.

But all things considered, it’s the price point that makes the Fiddlerman Apprentice such a good choice for a wide range of players.

The quality is there, even though it’s not backed by the same lifetime structural warranty of Fiddlerman’s more expensive violins. That said, this isn’t something intended for long-term use.

You should also understand that although the Apprentice model does have a good default setup, the tuning needs some adjusting.

Since a metronome isn’t included, you can mark time with a smartphone app. The fiddle even comes with a professional-looking varnish, which also adds value to the outfit as a whole.

What to Expect Out of the Box

This violin requires some additional tuning out of the box. It may also require more attention to the bridge so that it doesn’t fall off.

Unlike more expensive Fiddlerman models, the Apprentice needs more consistent servicing.

Fiddlerman Aprentice Violin Review Key Points:

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Alternatives to Compare

Final Thoughts on the Fiddlerman Apprentice Outfit

Between its features and accessories, the Fiddlerman Apprentice Violin Outfit could be the go-to choice for any beginner. It comes in all four standard sizes and therefore caters to novice players of all ages.

The fact that Fiddlerman uses higher quality materials even in this entry-level violin series is most impressive and offers even more value for money.

The fingerboard is smooth and easy to follow and the superior bow quality should give this beginner violin the edge over many similarly priced competitors.

Of course, barring the lack of a tuner, which Fiddlerman rarely offers anyway, having all the necessary playing and practice accessories, including a hard case, make the Apprentice a value pick.

Check Today’s Fiddlerman Apprentice Violin Outfit Price! >>

Fiddlerman Master Violin Outfit

Overall Rating: 4.6/5

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Fiddlerman Master Violin In Review: Is It The Right Premium Instrument For You?

Overview of the Fiddlerman Master Violin

The Fiddlerman Master Violin is built with premium woods. It’s also a newer model and dubbed by many as the obvious next step over the Artist series.

It’s more than a transitional instrument – it’s an affordable premium quality instrument for serious violinists.

Who is this violin best suited for?

It’s not in the nature of the Fiddlerman Master Violin to be forgiving by any means. As such, this is an instrument best-suited for those who already have a firm grasp over proper playing technique.

It’s also a pricier violin outfit so it doesn’t make much sense as a first violin; it’s better as a second purchase.

Due to its overall build and sound quality, it’s appropriate for someone that needs a violin to play live or record with.

Given its projection and response, it’s also a good fit for those who want or need a louder instrument.

What’s Included in the Master Violin Outfit?

This outfit comes with a 4/4 style Master violin, either Kaplan Amo or Thomastik Vision strings and a high-end Fiddlerman Oblong Case.

A carbon fiber bow is also included, with Mongolian horse hair for better tone and longevity.

Among the rest of the accessories you’ll also find a polishing cloth, shoulder rest, an Ultra Practice Mute, and a Holstein violin rosin.

Features

• Kaplan Amo and Thomastik Vision strings
• Premium bridge
• Wood dried for at least 10 years
• Perfect measurements and sizing

After all is said and done, the Fiddlerman Master Violin is one of the best in its price range. The quality of craftsmanship is top-notch, something that’s made clear in the feel and sound of the violin.

Although the outfit doesn’t offer many size options as other Fiddlerman series, the 4/4 style violin has very accurate measurements for string height, separation, etc.

Among its standout features is the detail and quality of the bridge. Depending on the size of the violin this will be either an Aubert Mirecourt Deluxe or a French Despiau 3-tree. Both high-end choices that you normally see in more expensive violins.

The outfit as a whole has some interesting accessories too, starting with the bow. This features durable Mongolian horsehair that facilitates a smoother play style and very rich tone. Ideal if you don’t like your violin sounding too bright, as most student models do.

The case is very durable, and its compartments ensure a snug fit for everything you put inside. Even better, the case also features a hygrometer. Therefore, you’re always alerted if the violin isn’t stored in optimal conditions.

Even the shoulder rest and chin rest have a much nicer feel and make it easier to maintain a proper posture during longer playing sessions.

Of course, as many other high-end Fiddlerman outfits, the Master violin also comes with high-grade carbon fiber tailpiece, a big step up from the much more common Brazilwood tailpiece.

The tuning retention is also impressive to say the least, although to be expected in this price range.

Using the Fiddlerman Master Violin

One of the best things about the Master Violin is that it requires little to no adjustments and tuning out of the box.

You can just take it out and play it in your preferred style, enjoy its loud and clear projection, and smooth fingerboard.

Fiddlerman Master Violin Review Key Points:

Alternatives to Consider

Final Thoughts on the Fiddlerman Master Violin Outfit

The Fiddlerman Master Violin is a great choice for a second violin and a good gift for anyone serious of perfecting their craft. This outfit doesn’t just include one of Fiddlerman’s better violins for advanced players but also premium-quality accessories.

The robust travel case, the included hygrometer, the bow with Mongolian horse hair and superior strength – these are all hallmarks of a well-balanced high-quality bundle.

Even the choice of strings is spot on, and the precision of the measurements leaves nothing to chance.

Although it offers little use for beginners, players with a good grasp of technique and posture can experience a massive jump in tonal quality and projection from playing on other similarly priced violins.

Check Fiddlerman Master Violin Outfit Availability >>

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The Fiddlerman OB1 In Review: One of the Best Built Violins for Beginners

OB1 Violin Outfit ratings at a glance:

Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit

Fiddlerman OB1 Overview

The craftsmanship on the OB1 is nothing short of impressive, given its very low-entry cost. Although it comes in limited sizes, the OB1 is a staple for learning the very basics of playing the fiddle from a very young age.

Fiddlerman OB1 Violin

Who is the OB1 for?

The Fiddlerman OB1 outfit is for very young students. Its 1/4 and 1/8 sizes cater to those between the ages of two and seven. This makes it a good choice for any parent that wants to start their kids learning a prestigious and complex instrument very early.

It’s also a solid choice if money is an issue, as the OB1 outfit is among the cheapest entry-level violin kits. The violin is also good for those without any musical or violin experience; because it’s so well-adjusted from the factory, it won’t need additional fiddling at home or immediate teacher input.

What’s Included with the Fiddlerman OB1 Outfit?

Fiddlerman does a good job of creating violin outfits that have everything you need for playing and practicing. Yet this kit lacks two accessories in the form of a chromatic tuner/metronome and an Ultra Practice Mute. The latter isn’t available for 1/4 and 1/8 OB1 violins.

That said, the outfit comes with a good quality bow, a lightweight oblong case, Fiddlerman rosin, shoulder rest, and even a polishing cloth.

Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit

OB1 Violin Outfit Features

• Carbon fiber bow
• Lightweight and sturdy case
• Great default adjustments
• Good tuning retention
• Decent projection

It’s not often that you get to say many good things of such an inexpensive violin, and the Fiddlerman OB1 is inexpensive, whether you get it alone or as part of the OB1 outfit.

As an entry-level fiddle for kids as young as 2 years old, it sounds better than expected and feels very smooth.

The violin also comes with either Prelude or Fiddlerman strings and meets NAfME and Suzuki student standards. The accuracy in measurements is also spot-on, something that makes this a comfortable instrument to play with very small hands.

Even the wood has been dried for at least 4 years, which is another trademark of a quality fiddle. It gives the little instrument durability and enough volume for its size.

Also worth praising is the use of carbon fiber for the bow as opposed to Brazilwood. The tailpiece is also carbon and features four built-in fine tuners for quick and accurate adjustments.

The French Despiau bridge is a nice touch, although it does have a tendency to come loose at times. But all things considered, it also helps novice players understand the hardware of the violin and how to service it too.

The pegs, fittings, and fingerboard are all made of ebony. A nice touch in terms of style that also improves the playing comfort. The Fiddlerman premium wood shoulder rest is another nice addition that takes some of the load off the violin and allows for practicing in longer sessions.

Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Review Key Points:

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Compare Alternative Violins

Final Thoughts On The OB1 Violin Outfit

There isn’t much one can argue against the Fiddlerman OB1 violin, especially as part of its own outfit. The violin itself sounds very good for its intended purpose, even though it clearly lacks projection over its more expensive competitors.

The feel of the fingerboard is as smooth as they come, and the tuning retention should really help beginners. There’s also a lot of value in the carbon fiber bow and the lightweight yet sturdy storage case, which even contains a thermometer to help gauge storage conditions.

All in all, the OB1 is a very good starter instrument for kids between two and seven years old. But it’s also an instrument that quickly loses value as kids tend to outgrow it fast in both size and technique. Luckily, it maintains a good resale value because of its build quality.

Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit

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A New and Improved Classic Fiddlerman Concert Violin Outfit

Key Concert Outfit ratings at a glance:

Fiddlerman Concert Violin Outfit

Fiddlerman Concert Violin Quick Overview

This violin is a new spin on a classic Fiddlerman piece. Available from Fiddlershop.com, it features better varnishing and superior quality wood. Yet this 2017 model follows previous designs to a “T” and enjoys the same quality craftsmanship, sound, and volume.

Who is this violin outfit for?

The Fiddlerman Concert Violin Outfit caters directly to adult players. It’s an instrument suited for recordings and concert playing, but can also work as a practice instrument.

Even if there are cheaper 4/4 style options out there, it’s also a solid choice for anyone looking to get a higher sound quality at a reasonable price.

Another reason you might appreciate this set are the included accessories. You’re getting more than a violin – you’re getting everything else you need to start playing right out of the box.

What’s Included in the Concert Outfit?

Before listing the accessories, know that both violin and accessories come with a standard 1-year warranty. The concert violin features a composite tailpiece with fine tuners.

It also comes with a polishing cloth, a wooden shoulder rest, an ultra-practice mute, rosin, and a suspension case.

The case has multiple storage compartments, enough room for two bow holders, a sheet music pocket, and many straps for proper storing and ensuring safe transportation.

Fiddlerman Concert Violin Features

• Carbon composite tailpiece
• Hand-carved bridge
• Oil-based finish
• Stringed and tuned out of the box
• Ebony pegs, fittings, and fingerboard

The structural integrity of the Fiddlerman Concert Violin is very good for this price range. The fact that it comes with a lifetime warranty too speaks volumes of the quality of craftsmanship.

This improved model uses Alpine Tone Wood, antiqued wood that’s been dried for at least 6 years, spruce, and maple.

It also has a carbon composite tailpiece that reduces the weight of the violin and gives it improved balance. It also adds to the overall durability and makes this an instrument you can get years of use out of.

Built to exceed MENC and Suzuki standards, the Concert Violin Outfit is a solid investment for both adult beginners and experienced players.

The outfit contains top accessories too, including a carbon fiber bow with superior responsiveness.

The bow is fitted with Siberian horsehair, an ebony frog, and mother of pearl inlays. By using this bow you can get a very rich and full tone, and it’s that extra warmth in sound that makes this a very well-put-together concert outfit.

The case is also high-end not just for its lightweight and strength but also because of the ample use of pockets and compartments. It’s more than enough to carry anything you need to play and take care of the violin.

Using this new version of the Concert Violin Outfit

Apart from some minimal tuning adjustments, the Fiddlerman Concert Violin is ready to go as soon as you unbox it. Even though it lacks a metronome/tuner accessory, you should be able to tune it with a smartphone or from your computer.

The violin is quite forgiving when it comes to open string and vibrato techniques, so it offers plenty of opportunities to study and improve, without sounding too bad. The chin rest promotes proper posture so holding the violin shouldn’t be an issue.

Fiddlerman Concert Violin Review Key Points:

What Do Fiddlerman Concert Violin Outfit Customers Think? >>

Alternative Violin Outfits to Compare

Final Thoughts On The Fiddlerman Concert Violin Kit

The Fiddlerman Concert Violin Outfit comes as an excellent package for beginners, intermediate, and even advanced players.

It offers good value for your money, especially when you consider the superior quality of all the accessories, from strings, to bow, to the case.

It is also much more forgiving towards improper technique than other similar violins in its price range. Between that, the full tone, and the build quality, you could be hard pressed to find a better option unless you’re able to splurge on certain woods and features.

Are Fiddlerman Concert Violin Outfit Owners Happy? >>

Once you’ve established that violin playing is something that you really enjoy, and you’ve advanced to an intermediate level, it may be time to get yourself a better violin.

What is the best intermediate violin on the market though? How can you be sure that you’re looking at the best violin brands for intermediate players?

Below we’ll do our best to answer common questions those shopping for a violin ask, as well as provide a review of the top intermediate violins on the market today.

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Best Intermediate Violins & Brands: Ultimate Guide with Reviews

Quality mid-level violins at a glance:

Product	Feature Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1 Best Intermediate Violin Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit		4.8	$$$
#2 Best Value Model Antonio Giuliani Etude Violin Outfit		4.5	$$
#3 Best Tone Cremona SV-500 Premier Artist Violin Outfit		4.3	$$$
#4 Most Complete Package Cecilio CVN-600 Hand Oil Rub Violin Outfit		4.5	$$
#5 Highest Quality Louis Carpini G2 Violin Outfit		4.6	$$$$

Our Top 5 Intermediate Violins and Makers Reviewed

1. Best Intermediate Violin: Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit

Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit

This Fiddlerman OB1 comes in at an excellent price as well, so if you are on a tight budget, it is well worth considering. We felt that the darker brown varnish used here added a more vintage look overall, and we loved that.

It is hand-carved – the back is made from maple that has been aged for at least four years. The front is made from spruce. Everything is beautifully finished and presented in a decent-quality case.

The case does have a detachable shoulder strap and handle and various useful compartments.

Click Here to Read the Latest Fiddlerman OB1 Reviews

The tailpiece is Wittner-style and has four fine tuners built into it. The fittings are all made from real ebony and designed with maximum durability in mind.

Each violin is fitted with D’Addario Prelude strings and is carefully inspected during setup. The company uses a ten-point checklist to ensure that everything is in order before shipping the instrument.

You will be able to play it straight out of the box. The tone of the OB1 outfit is rich and clear and ideal for the intermediate user to improve their playing on.

It comes in two sizes:  1/4 and full. No premium is charged for ordering the smaller size.

Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit Review

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2. Best Value Model: Antonio Giuliani Etude Violin Outfit 4/4 Full Size

Antonio Giuliani Etude Violin Outfit

Antonio Giuliani is famous for producing great quality musical instruments at exceptional prices. Add this in with their lifetime warranty, and their 45-day money-back guarantee and you know that you can buy one of their violins with complete confidence.

This model is extremely popular for intermediate students and is highly rated.

The features include an attractive oil finish, fittings made from real ebony and a handcrafted base made from spruce and maple. The maple is naturally aged, and the spruce is sourced from the Himalayas. This makes for a highly durable instrument that will last for many years.

What Do Antonio Giuliani Etude Violin Customers Think?

This outfit comes with the case, a bow made from Brazilwood, a shoulder rest made by Portland Gold, a detachable tuner, and a spare set of D’Addario Prelude strings.

The bridge is available with a German Teller or French Aubert option. Each violin is carefully inspected in the United States by experienced Luthiers before being set up in accordance with MENC standards.

The Etude comes in four different sizes: 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and full size. You can expect to pay a premium for the half and quarter size.

Our overall view of this model is that it is highly playable and comes in at an excellent price. The tone is rich and well-balanced. We’re sure you’d be pleasantly surprised at the results you get with this model.

Antonio Giuliani Etude Violin Outfit Review

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3. Best Tone: Cremona SV-500 Premier Artist Violin Outfit – 4/4 Size

Cremona SV-500 Premier Artist Violin Outfit

This model was reviewed by Strings Magazine as being a good choice for those looking for their first or second violin. This is the manufacturer’s most popular option for intermediate to advanced users because of the quality of the sound it produces.

The violin features a French-made Aubert bridge with a maple and spruce body. It is lightly varnished to reveal the full beauty of the wood. It also has a chinrest that takes on the design of Stradivari violins.

Read What Cremona SV-500 Customers Are Saying >>

The case is of good quality and has a rigid foam interior. It features four bow holders and also a hygrometer. The strings are high-quality Prelude strings made in the United States.

The bow is made from Brazilwood and high-quality hair. The fingerboard is made from ebony, and the tailpiece is made of a composite to help lighten it.

Tuning is easily accomplished, and set-up is completed by professional luthiers in California according to MENC standards.

It comes in four different sizes: 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and full size.

For the price, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better violin. The SV-500 is not a professional violin by any stretch of the imagination, but it is more than adequate for practicing with.

Cremona SV-500 Premier Outfit Review

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4. Good Intermediate Violin for the Money: Cecilio CVN-600 Violin

Cecilio CVN-600 Hand Oil Rub Flamed 1-Piece Back Violin

Out of all the models that we have reviewed, this one gives you the best value for money. This Cecilio model comes with several extras that most do not.

For starters, there are two bows made out of Brazilwood with Mongolian horsehair string. You also get a second bridge, a shoulder rest that can be adjusted, a case that has a hygrometer, a lesson book, and a chromatic tuner.

What Are Customers Saying About the Cecilio CVN-600?

Now, on to the actual CVN-600 violin itself. It has hand-carved and features a highly flamed back and sides in one-piece maple. The maple is allowed to age for at least seven years. The top is made from spruce. The finish is oiled giving an attractive appearance.

The fingerboard is made of ebony, as are the pegs, and tailpiece. The purfling is inlaid and highly attractive, and the back has a pretty design on it. There is also a fine tuner that can be detached.

The strings on the violin are D’Addario Prelude strings. You get a full year’s warranty against manufacturer’s defects.

Overall, some concerns have been raised about the final finish as it might be a little uneven in places. Still, considering the price paid this delivers a fantastic sound and so is still worth considering.

Cecilio CVN-600 Violin Review

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5. Highest Quality: Louis Carpini G2 Violin Outfit 4/4

Louis Carpini G2 Violin Outfit 4/4

Made by Louis Carpani, this is a high-quality, well-crafted option. It comes fully assembled and ready to play. Even the bow has been rosined for you. This is one of the only options with a full lifetime guarantee.

The sound produced is rich and true. While some models focus only on creating a louder noise, this is more in keeping with the sound produced by much more expensive models.

Read What Louis Carpini G2 Customers Are Saying >>

It comes in a range of sizes including 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and full size. What makes Louis Carpani different from most of its competitors is that they charge the same price for all the sizes they offer.

In many other companies, the smaller models command a higher price, because they are more specialized pieces.

A Louis Carpini will run you more than most intermediate violins, but you get a professional case, an extra set of strings, rosin, and the bow. Everything is ready to go straight from the case.

The case itself comes with three different colored interiors to choose from – red, blue, or emerald green. The primary design consideration was utility here. There is space for four bows, sheet music, a range of accessories, and much more.

The final finish is rich and oiled. This is a musical instrument that won’t disappoint either in terms of look or sound.

Louis Carpini G2 Violin Outfit Review

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Buyer’s Guide for Choosing Good Intermediate Violins

How much is a good quality violin?

For a good quality violin, bank on paying at least $300. The models that we review here range from $300 to around $600. You might be able to find cheaper student models, but these are usually only good for absolute beginners. As an intermediate player, you’ll want better results when you play.

Expect to pay between $300 to $600 for a decent intermediate violin.

Unfortunately, that does mean paying a bit more upfront. On the bright side, though, if you look after these violins properly, they could very well last you a lifetime.

If you want the best of the best, it doesn’t get much better than a Stradivarius, but you’ll need deep pockets to get your hands on one of those – they come in at millions of dollars.

How much are violins for beginners?

Violins come in at a range of prices. You can pay anywhere between $100 and a couple of thousand dollars. At $100, though, you are getting a very basic model and taking a chance with the kind of results such a low-price bracket offers.

Those at the very low end of the market are not going to produce a high-quality sound but might be useful if you have a child who is unsure of whether or not they will enjoy playing. An alternative to consider in this instance is to rent a violin for a few weeks and then make the final decision.

Inexpensive beginner violins range between $100 to $300.

This allows your child to be sure that this is the right instrument for them without you having to waste money. From there, do consider spending a little more money on a better brand. While you might save a couple of hundred dollars by going as cheap as possible, you’ll need to replace the violin a lot sooner.

So, in the long run, you’re not saving any money, and your child is not getting a proper idea of what a well-made violin can actually do. You have to weigh these arguments when considering the potential for savings.

After all, what happens if your child turns out to have a real knack for playing but gets frustrated by having to use a poor-quality instrument? The pros and cons must be carefully considered here before you make a final decision.

For more information on beginner violin prices, read more here.

What is the best brand of violin for a student?

If you were to ask any connoisseur of musical instruments, it would have to be the Stradivarius. There is no denying that this master craftsman perfected the art of creating perfectly toned instruments. Interestingly enough, the sound a Stradivarius produces is something that we in the modern world can’t duplicate.

Of course, in case you don’t have a few million to drop on a violin, there are some other more affordable options. All the brands that we have listed below are excellent choices and won’t let you down.

We recommend Fiddlerman and Louis Carpini as the best brands of violins for intermediate students.

They’re not Stradivari, but they do offer a modern, affordable alternative. Each has been been rated in terms of the sound they produce and the value that they provide. They’ll help you to advance to a more professional level of playing.

If we had to choose the best brand out of the lot, that honor would have to go to Fiddlerman. They produce excellent quality instruments and are willing to stand behind their products 100 percent. With a full lifetime guarantee against manufacturer’s defects, it doesn’t get much better than that.

If you are a beginner, and not sure whether or not these are a good fit, check out this post to find out which brands are the best for beginners.

Compare Featured Intermediate Violins & Brands:

The Verdict: Which Is The Overall Best Violin Brand?

At the end of the day, each of the options we listed above should prove to be a good investment. When compiling our list of top options, we wanted models that sounded as good as they looked. We went for models that had been expertly crafted and that produced reliable results.

However, if we were forced to choose just one out of the whole lot, our first choice would be the Fiddlerman OB1. It does come out as one of the more expensive instruments of the lot, but has fine detailing, a fantastic case, and is backed by an excellent guarantee and warranty.

We Recommend Fiddlerman Violins

Not only that, but Fiddlerman violins as a brand come in an exceptionally wide range of price points to match every level of player. This gives intermediate players a much better choice in finding an instrument that suits them perfectly.

If you are looking for the best value for money option, the Cecilio is the best choice. It has a range of additional extras included that give you a lot more bang for your buck.

If we were working purely on finesse, the Louis Carpini would come first for us. We love the darker varnish as it is a more unusual color. It makes the violin look more like a cherished older piece than a brand-new out-of-the-box model.

Which model is right for you? Check out all the reviews above and consider your options. We do hope that this review proves to be extremely useful for you and that it makes finding your perfect intermediate violin an easier task.

Editor’s Pick

Fiddlerman OB1 Violin Outfit

What Do Fiddlerman OB1 Customers Think! >>