When looking for an intermediate violin, you have several things to consider. This will be a step up from a beginner instrument, so you’re going to want something that is a little bit better. This guide will help you pick a great intermediate violin.
In a hurry? Here are our top picks..
Acoustic or Electric Violin?
As you advance on the violin, you need to decide whether you want to play an acoustic version or get an electric violin. This will be entirely up to you. There can be some advantages to playing electric violins especially for teenagers or younger adults. You’ll be able to play a lot of modern music when you play an electric instrument.
The downside is, that the acoustic violin tends to sound a little bit better and it’s going to be suitable for more traditional types of music such as folk, country, and classical music. You may want to experiment with both an acoustic and electric since your skills on the instrument are advancing. If you do go the electric route, you will need some sort of amplifier for your instrument. This means you’re going to have to spend more money. You may want to buy both an acoustic as well as an electric violin Isis will help you cover all different types of music and genres. This guide covers several acoustic instruments as well as electric offerings to make buying easier for you.
How to Buy an Intermediate Violin
An Intermediate violin is a significant step up from your beginner instrument. You may have already sold your previous violin or are not using it any longer. Before you make your purchase, try to have a good idea of what you want as an intermediate instrument is going to cost you more. For example, the tone is probably going to be one of the factors that will be important to you. Since you’ve been playing for some time, you want an intermediate instrument that produces a satisfactory tone. to get this tone, you will need to spend more money. Here are some things to consider before you make that purchase.
Price
When you switch over to an intermediate instrument, you can expect to spend several dollars more. In fact, you will probably spend several $100 more for a decent intermediate instrument. Anywhere between $350 to $1,200 is probably a good starting point. You do have a little bit of wiggle room in terms of price, but you don’t want to go too much lower unless you have a very limited budget. You will be playing this instrument for a long time, so you need something that will last.
Remember that it’s going to cost quite a bit of money to get a decent intermediate violin. These instruments are not cheap. If you go too low in terms of price, you are not going to be happy with the quality. Your advancing skills in musicianship warrant a better quality violin, so plan to spend a little bit more than you might think.
Brand Names
You should be looking into violins with a brand name. It doesn’t make much sense to buy a no-name violin if you’re going to be spending a little bit of extra money. When you purchase a brand name violin, you will be getting something that is of a decent quality. This will ensure you get an instrument that is made with decent materials, has quality workmanship, and a good tone. This is what you’re going to want when you move into the intermediate violin category.
Sound
Another factor you have to consider is the sound of the violin. Violins with the medium price range are going to sound better than beginner instruments. You should listen to several different violins and make some comparisons. This will make it easier for you to buy something that is going to align with your personal music taste. As an intermediate player, you probably have a good idea of what you are looking for.
You should compare violins in different price ranges. It could be worth it for you to spend a little bit more on your intermediate instrument than you intended. This will ensure you get something that you will be satisfied with in terms of the tone. You might be tempted to save money on your intermediate priced violin, but this might not be the best option.
Wood Choice
The type of wood you choose for your intermediate violin will all depend upon your individual sound preferences. Most intermediate violins will use higher-grade wood when compared to a beginner’s style instrument. You will end up paying more for this higher quality wood. Spruce and maple wood are still the primary woods used to make intermediate violins. The quality of this wood on the intermediate instruments is a lot better when compared to beginner violins. The better quality wood produces an enhanced tone, but it also drives up the price of the instrument, so you have to be ready to spend more.
Violin Bundle
You will find many different intermediate violin bundles on the market. This can help save you a little bit of money. You’ll get a violin, case, bow, rosin, and other accessories in one complete package. If you are pressed for cash, this can be a good option. You do not have to go this route, but it is a good idea if you want to save on your purchase. You do have to be wary of some of the accessories because they can be able or quality when compared to the instrument itself.
Strings
As an intermediate violin player, you should begin to experiment with various types of strings. You have gut core, synthetic core, and steel to choose from. The brand and type that you end up choosing are entirely up to your own preferences. You will find many different brand names on the market, so it can be worth it to experiment a little bit until you find a brand that works for you.
A good set of strings can mean a world of difference in terms of the sound of your intermediate violin. You don’t want to use poor quality ones, as this can lead to frustration as you continue to learn how to play. Plan to spend a little bit of money on your strings, which will enhance the tone of your new instrument. Since your instrument costs a bit more than a beginner violin, it makes sense to use ones that are of a higher quality. You can always go to your local music store and inquire about different violin strings that they may have on hand.
Use a Good Bow
If you buy a violin kit, it can be a good idea to upgrade the bow to something that is a little bit better. A lot of violin bundles and kits don’t come with a decent bow. It might be fine for a beginning student, but as an advancing player, you may have a different preference in terms of the bow that you are using now. In addition to high-quality strings, you want a bowl that is going to meet your needs.
You should also make sure that you’re using high-quality rosin with your bone to enhance the tone and sound of your instrument. The rosin should also match the strings of your violin. A lot of string manufacturers make their own rosin, so you should use the brand name rosin from the same manufacturer as your strings for the best results. Make sure you remove excess rosin from your bow, and you don’t need to use a lot of it. You should only be using it a couple of times per week. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you’re using your rosin correctly.
Case
If you have been using a gig bag or poor-quality case up until this point, it’s a good idea to invest in a high-quality violin case. Better violins that you buy come with a case, but it might not necessarily be a good one. You wanted to protect your instrument from damage if you’re going to be spending a lot on it. Every violin should be inside a hardshell case when you are not using it. A lot of cases come with storage compartments for your accessories, and they might also have a slot for music books or sheet music papers
Violin Size
You will still need to consider the arm length when buying your new violin. The arm length all depends upon the age of the student and their individual Comfort level when playing the violin. This guide below will help you pick the best violin e in terms of arm length. Most students over the age of 11 for adults are going to want a 4/4 violin. Younger students will probably use a different size depending upon their individual arm length.
Arm Length
- 1/6 ages 3 to 5 arm length:14 to 15 3/8 inches
- 1/10 ages 3 to 5 arm length: 15 3/8 to 17 inches
- 1/8 ages 3 to 5 arm length: 17.1 to 17.5 inches
- 1/4 ages 4-7 arm length: 17.6 to 20 inches
- 1/2 Ages 6 to 10 arm length: 22 to 23.5 inches
- 3/4 Ages 9 to 11 arm length: 23.5 and up.
- 4/4 Ages 9 and above to adult arm length 23.5 inches and above. (may need to experiment with violin for best fit)
Best Intermediate Violins Reviewed
1. Antonio Giuliani Primo Violin 4/4 – Best Bundle
The Antonio Giuliani Primo Violin Premium a 4/4 violin for today’s intermediate student. It has plenty to offer the player.
This kit comes with a high-quality violin, brazilwood bow, classic case, rosin, Suzuki lesson book, luggage tag, and extra string set. The instrument has been set up and it’s ready to go right at the box. It is been worked on by professional luthiers in Washington State. The top is made with solid maple and it has spruce tonewood. It also has genuine ebony fittings and an oil finish. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty as well as a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Other features include a custom fit French Aubert Bridge made out of maple wood. It has high-grade ebony pegs, fingerboard, and chinrest. The composite tailpiece also includes built-in fine tuners. The case is high quality and has room for four bows. There is an extra-large pocket with double zippers for folders and sheet music Handle makes it easy to carry your violin around with you. To secure the violin there are faux-leather ties. The Antonio Giuliani Primo Violin Premium is ready for today’s intermediate student.
Pros:
- Plenty of accessories
- Good tone
- Excellent case
Cons:
- A bit expensive
- Varnish could be better
2. Yamaha V3 Series Student Violin – Best for Students
Yamaha makes high-quality musical products. There V3 Violin Series is an excellent choice for students that are passed the beginning stage.
While this is listed as a beginner instrument, it is also suitable for intermediate players because it is made to a high-quality. You will get great durability in an excellent tone out of this violin. It comes complete with rosin, bow, and a case. It is made with durable tonewood which is dried in environmentally controlled conditions which enhances durability and creates a reliable violin for the student. It also has pegs, chin rest, high-quality fittings, and fingerboard which are made from ebony. The violin is easy to tune and the fine tuners make it simple to make adjustments to the pitch. you can rely on Yamaha instruments and the V3 violin is suitable for any intermediate player that wants a great product.
Pros:
- Easy to play
- Good case
Cons:
- Could use a few more accessories
- Some experienced tuning problems
3. Cremona SV-1260 Maestro – Best Top Quality Intermediate 4/4 Violin
The Cremona SV-1260 Is an exceptional intermediate violin for today’s player. It has plenty to offer you and makes an excellent step up from a beginner instrument.
This violin is handcrafted. It features a solid spruce top along with graduated and hand-carved select solid maple sides and neck. The back of the instrument is also done inflamed Maple. You will get an excellent attack and a focussed sound with this violin. It comes with a Cremona bridge, VP-14 fine-tuners, Anton Breton VNS-150 Perlon strings, and Sacconi-style tailpiece hanger. The fingerboard is polished ebony so it is easy to play. It also has an ebony saddle and nut. You get a deluxe case to protect your valuable violin. It also comes with a high-quality J. LaSalle LB-17 Brazilwood bow.
Pros:
- High-quality wood
- Good case
- Excellent tone
Cons:
- No rosin included
- A little expensive
4. D'Luca PD01 Orchestral Series – Best 4/4 for Concerts
For those that are starting to play violin on an intermediate level, the D’Luca PD01 Orchestral Series makes the ideal option. it’s the ideal instrument for any student or those planning on playing a concert.
This instrument has a flamed front, sides, and back. It is made with high-quality maple and spruce wood that has been well seasoned and hand-carved. You will get an exceptional tone out of your new violin. It features an ebony fingerboard and the tailpiece has for fine tuners so your instrument will always be in excellent tune. It comes with a quality horse hair violin bow, shoulder rest, rosin cake, extra set of violin strings, and a chromatic clip-on tuner, The violin case is lightweight and it comes with extra bow holders as well as padded suspension inside to protect your valuable investment.
Pros:
- Plenty of accessories
- Solid case
Cons:
- Some accessories could be better
- Some buyers experienced quality control issues
5. Bunnel Premier Student Violin – Best Affordable 3/4 Size
For those looking for a solid 3/4 size violin, have a look at Bunnel as they offer an excellent instrument in this size. Here is what you get when you order.
This instrument has improved would quality. You get a rich and warm sound. It’s been set up by experienced luthiers so you shouldn’t have much problem or setup required. It is made with tight green spruce and fully dried maple wood which helps to improve the tone. The bridge is made out of maple and it has an ebony polished fingerboard as well as pegs.
It comes with plenty of accessories. You get a carbon fiber shoulder rest, clip-on tuner, violin book, backup string set, polishing cloth, Brazilwood bow, rosin, and a carrying case. this product also comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee as well as a lifetime warranty from Bunnel. For those that are looking a step up in terms of their playing, the Bunnel Premier Violin Outfit is one Instrument you should take a second look at it.
Pros:
- Rich tones
- Plenty of accessories
Cons:
- Replacement strings aren’t the best
- Some received a bad bow
6. D Z Strad Violin Model 101 – Best Premium 3/4 Violin
Those with a little bit more money to spend, you might want to check out the D Z Strad Violin Model 101. this instrument comes in several different sizes including a 3/4 so it is perfect for almost any need.
The top is carved with a select tight green spruce. The back and sides of the instrument are made with maple wood. You also get an ebony fingerboard. All of these woods combine to produce an ex want to come. this instrument is a favorite among many private teachers including those in the well-renowned organizations such as Suzuki. The tonewood on the instrument makes it an exciting instrument to play for any intermediate player as it will sound a lot better than your old beginner violin. you also get rosin, shoulder rest, bow, and a hardshell case. The D Z Strad Violin Model 101 will help you progress on the violin.
Pros:
- Excellent tone
- Used by many professional teachers
- Includes a case
Cons:
- A bit expensive
- Some experienced string issues with initial purchase
7. Mendini MV400 – Best 1/2 Size Violin for Lower Budgets
The Mendini MV400 is an excellent instrument for practicing violin players. It comes in several different sizes including 1/2 for younger children.
It features a solid wood spruce top that has been hand-carved. It has solid Maple back and sides. The finish is a smooth varnish which makes it look attractive. It comes with pegs, chin rest, ebony fingerboard, alloy tailpiece, and it has four integrated fine tuners. you get a lesson book, chromatic tuner, form-fitting hardshell case, shoulder strap, backpack strap, two brazilwood bows, extra set of violin strings, quality rosin, adjustable shoulder rest, and two violin bridges. You are covered with a one-year warranty against manufacturer defects. This kit has everything that a practicing the violin player is going to need.
Pros:
- Lots of accessories
- Solid wood and good tone
Cons:
- Some experienced tuning issues
- Some quality control issues with parts
8. Cecilio CVN-500 – Best Top Tier 1/2 Intermediate Violin
The Cecilio CVN-500 is an outstanding violin that comes in many sizes including 1/2 for intermediate violin players.
This 1/2 size violin comes with a solid spruce top. It has a flamed maple back, sides, and neck. It is finished in a sentence antique finish. You get an ebony fingerboard, chin rest, tailpiece, and it has four detachable nickel plated fine tuners. The strings are D’Addario Prelude which produces a rich and vibrant sound.
Accessories for this kit include a lesson book, chromatic tuner, two Brazilwood bows, hardshell case, adjustable shoulder rest, rosin cake, and an extra bridge. You’re covered with a one-year warranty against manufacturer defects. For any intermediate player looking to advance on the violin, the Cecilio CVN-500 is one that you’re going to love for years to come
Pros:
- Lots of accessories
- Nice tone
- Hardshell case
Cons:
- Some accessories are not top quality
- Some quality control issues
9. Vangoa - Black Full Size 4/4 – Best Intermediate Electric Violin
Some players when they reach an intermediate level, may want to try an electric violin. Companies such as Vangoa offer these instruments.
This violin is finished in black metallic varnish. You will get a bright in a resonant tone. It has a solid Maple head, chin rest, and pegs. the carbon fiber tailpiece features for detachable fine tuners so you can tune this violin precisely. It has durable steel strings that add power and richness to your tone. It comes with a Brazilwood bow. It is easy to connect it to an amplifier via the output jack. Along with the violin you get rosin, extra strings, headphones, and a case. the company provides a one year warranty on their product.
Pros:
- Comes with accessories
- Solid case
- Good tone
Cons:
- Odd shape may not be for everyone
- You have to buy an amplifier
10. Cecilio 4/4 CVNAE – Best Acoustic/Electric Violin
Enjoy the sounds of both electric and acoustic violins with the Cecilio 4/4 CVNA. It has something for everyone.
It features a hand-carved solid Spruce top. The sides and back are made with maple wood. It comes with both our tone and volume control. It had an ebony chin rest, It had an ebony chinrest, pegs, and fingerboard. The tailpiece features for nickel plated fine tuners so your instrument will always be in tune.
Accessories include a Brazilwood bow with genuine Mongolian horsehair, quality rosin, violin bridge, and a cable. The case has soft foam padding along with rubber feet to protect your violin from damage. It comes with a one-year warranty against any manufacturer’s defects. For those that want to try an electric violin yet have the tones of acoustic as well, the Cecilio 4/4 CVNA is a standout product.
Pros:
- Included accessories
- Good case
- Nice tones
Cons:
- You need to buy an amp
- Cable could be better
11. Yamaha Electric Violin - YEV105NT 4/4 – Best Unique Looking Electric Violin
For those looking for a unique electric violin, how to look at the Yamaha YEV105NT which features a different shape than traditional violins.
This electric violin is easy to play, lightweight, and it comes in at an affordable price. It is a visually appealing instrument. It produces a clean sound that will appeal to many different violin players. It has been made with six different types of wood. This improves the natural and resonant sound when it is plugged into an amplifier. You don’t need any headphones, preamps, or batteries. Plug this violin into any violin amplifier and you’ll be ready to play right away. If you want a standard product as you learn how to play the violin, the Yamaha YEV105NT is a clear winner.
Pros:
- Unique shape
- Good tone
Cons:
- The lack of traditional feel may not be for everyone
- No case or additional accessories included
12. Barcus Berry BAR - AET – Best Top Quality Acoustic/Electric Violin
The Barcus Berry BAR AE is a handcrafted instrument from Romania. They have been making violins there for many centuries.
This eclectic/acoustic violin is handcrafted with Carpathian maple and spruce wood. Use it to produce a wide number of both acoustic and electric tones. It can cover a wide range of different musical styles. It includes Barcus Berry Electronics. You get Wittner tuners, ebony fittings, and the finish is a hand-rubbed lacquer. It comes with a horsehair bow and the soft shell case that has its own shoulder strap. You also get a dark cake of rosin for your bow. You can get it in a wide number of finishes to suit your individual tastes.
Pros:
- Comes with a case
- Good electronics
Cons:
- No tone control
- You need to buy an amp
Conclusion
Intermediate players will find a wide range of different instruments on the market to suit their needs. You will have to decide how much money you want to spend on your intermediate violin. You’ll be making a large step up in terms of tone, price, and playability. Some players may also want to experiment with both acoustic violins as well as electric ones.
The D'Luca PD01 Orchestral Series is a nice mid-range violin that won’t cost you a whole lot. It comes with plenty of accessories and it comes in various sizes. If you have a lot to spend, look at the Cremona SV-1260 Maestro. It features a good case and humidifier as well as several accessories. It costs you more, but has superior sound and also comes in various sizes.
On the electric side, look at the Cecilio 4/4 CVNAE which is both an electric and acoustic violin so it covers you well in terms of tones. The is also a good bet, although the shape is a bit odd and you may have trouble adjusting to it.
No matter what you need, you’ll find high quality acoustic as well as electric violins on the market. Plan to spend a little bit more than you did on your beginner instrument. The extra money that you spend is going to go a long way. You’ll have an instrument that is made with better quality wood, it will sound better, and it will help you advance on the violin as you improve your playing skills.
