The Ultimate Guide: How to Choose and Buy an Electric Violin

An electric violin is a stringed instrument that produces sound by converting the vibrations of its strings into electrical signals. These signals are then amplified and sent to a speaker, which produces the sound. Electric violins are often used in rock, pop, and jazz music, as they can be amplified to produce a louder sound than acoustic violins. They are also often used in recording studios, as they can be plugged directly into a mixing board.

There are many different factors to consider when buying an electric violin. These include the type of body, the type of strings, the type of pickup, and the type of amplifier. The type of body will affect the sound of the violin, with solid-body violins producing a louder, more sustained sound than hollow-body violins. The type of strings will also affect the sound of the violin, with different types of strings producing different timbres. The type of pickup will determine how the vibrations of the strings are converted into electrical signals, with different types of pickups producing different sounds. The type of amplifier will determine the volume and tone of the violin, with different types of amplifiers producing different sounds.

It is important to try out different electric violins before you buy one, to find one that is the right fit for you. You should also consider your budget, as electric violins can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

1. Body type

The body type of an electric violin is one of the most important factors to consider when buying one. Solid-body violins have a more sustained sound, while hollow-body violins have a more resonant sound. This is because solid-body violins have a solid body that does not resonate as much as a hollow-body violin. As a result, solid-body violins are often used in rock and pop music, where a sustained sound is desired. Hollow-body violins, on the other hand, are often used in jazz and classical music, where a more resonant sound is desired.

• Facet 1: Sustain

  Sustain is the length of time that a note continues to sound after it has been played. Solid-body violins have a longer sustain than hollow-body violins because the solid body does not resonate as much. This makes solid-body violins ideal for playing lead guitar and other styles of music where a sustained sound is desired.

• Facet 2: Resonance

  Resonance is the sympathetic vibration of an object in response to another object vibrating at a similar frequency. Hollow-body violins have a more resonant sound than solid-body violins because the hollow body resonates more. This makes hollow-body violins ideal for playing rhythm guitar and other styles of music where a more resonant sound is desired.

• Facet 3: Feedback

  Feedback is the howling sound that can occur when an electric violin is played too close to an amplifier. Solid-body violins are less prone to feedback than hollow-body violins because the solid body does not resonate as much. This makes solid-body violins ideal for playing in loud environments.

• Facet 4: Weight

  Solid-body violins are typically heavier than hollow-body violins. This is because solid-body violins have a solid body, while hollow-body violins have a hollow body. The weight of an electric violin can be a factor to consider if you plan on playing it for long periods of time.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of body is right for you is to try out different electric violins and see which one feels and sounds the best to you.

2. Pickup type

The type of pickup you choose will have a significant impact on the sound of your electric violin. Magnetic pickups are more common and produce a warmer sound, while piezo pickups produce a brighter sound. Here is a more detailed look at the two types of pickups:

• Magnetic pickups

  Magnetic pickups work by creating a magnetic field around the strings. When the strings vibrate, they disrupt the magnetic field, which creates an electrical signal. Magnetic pickups are more common on electric violins because they produce a warmer sound that is similar to the sound of an acoustic violin. However, magnetic pickups can also be prone to feedback, which is a howling sound that can occur when the pickup is too close to the amplifier.

• Piezo pickups

  Piezo pickups work by converting the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals using a piezoelectric crystal. Piezo pickups are less common on electric violins, but they produce a brighter sound that is often preferred for rock and pop music. Piezo pickups are also less prone to feedback than magnetic pickups.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of pickup is right for you is to try out different electric violins and see which one sounds best to you. However, keep in mind the following factors when making your decision:

• The type of music you play
• The sound you want to achieve
• Your budget

3. Amplifier

The amplifier is an essential component of an electric violin setup. It is responsible for powering the pickup and producing the sound. Amplifiers come in a variety of wattages and features, so it’s important to choose one that is powerful enough to handle the output of your pickup. If you choose an amplifier that is too weak, the sound will be distorted and weak. If you choose an amplifier that is too powerful, you may damage your pickup or speakers.

When choosing an amplifier for your electric violin, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• The type of music you play: Different styles of music require different amounts of power. If you play rock or metal, you’ll need an amplifier with more power than if you play jazz or classical music.
• The size of the room you’ll be playing in: If you’ll be playing in a small room, you won’t need as much power as if you’ll be playing in a large room.
• Your budget: Amplifiers range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start shopping for an amplifier. There are many different brands and models of amplifiers on the market, so it’s important to do your research and read reviews before you make a purchase.

Here are a few of the most popular brands of amplifiers for electric violins:

• Fender
• Marshall
• Vox
• Laney
• Blackstar

Once you’ve chosen an amplifier, you’ll need to connect it to your electric violin. This is typically done using a 1/4-inch jack cable. Once you’ve connected the amplifier, you can start playing your electric violin and enjoying the sound.

FAQs about How to Buy an Electric Violin

Buying an electric violin can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about buying an electric violin, along with their answers:

Question 1: What are the different types of electric violins?

Answer: There are two main types of electric violins: solid-body and hollow-body. Solid-body violins have a more sustained sound, while hollow-body violins have a more resonant sound.

Question 2: What are the different types of pickups for electric violins?

Answer: There are two main types of pickups for electric violins: magnetic and piezo. Magnetic pickups are more common and produce a warmer sound, while piezo pickups produce a brighter sound.

Question 3: What are the different types of amplifiers for electric violins?

Answer: There are many different types of amplifiers for electric violins, ranging from small practice amps to large stage amps. It’s important to choose an amplifier that is powerful enough to handle the output of your pickup.

Question 4: How much do electric violins cost?

Answer: Electric violins can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price of an electric violin will depend on the type of violin, the type of pickup, the type of amplifier, and the brand.

Question 5: Where can I buy an electric violin?

Answer: Electric violins can be purchased from a variety of music stores, both online and offline. It’s important to do your research and read reviews before you make a purchase.

Question 6: How do I care for an electric violin?

Answer: Electric violins require regular care and maintenance. This includes cleaning the strings, the body, and the pickup. It’s also important to store your electric violin in a cool, dry place when you’re not playing it.

Summary: Buying an electric violin can be a great way to expand your musical horizons. By following the tips in this FAQ, you can choose the right electric violin for your needs and budget.

Next steps: Once you’ve purchased an electric violin, you’ll need to learn how to play it. There are many resources available online and in libraries that can help you get started.

Tips for buying an electric violin

Buying an electric violin can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. Here are 5 tips to help you choose the right electric violin for your needs:

Tip 1: Consider your budget

Electric violins can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.

Tip 2: Decide what type of body you want

Electric violins come in two main body types: solid-body and hollow-body. Solid-body violins have a more sustained sound, while hollow-body violins have a more resonant sound. Consider the type of music you play and the sound you want to achieve when choosing a body type.

Tip 3: Choose the right pickup

The pickup is responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals. There are two main types of pickups: magnetic and piezo. Magnetic pickups are more common and produce a warmer sound, while piezo pickups produce a brighter sound. Consider the type of music you play and the sound you want to achieve when choosing a pickup.

Tip 4: Select an amplifier

The amplifier is responsible for powering the pickup and producing the sound. Amplifiers come in a variety of wattages and features. It’s important to choose an amplifier that is powerful enough to handle the output of your pickup. Consider the size of the room you’ll be playing in and the type of music you play when choosing an amplifier.

Tip 5: Try out different electric violins

The best way to choose an electric violin is to try out different models and see which one feels and sounds the best to you. Visit a music store and try out a few different electric violins before you make a purchase.

Summary: Buying an electric violin can be a great way to expand your musical horizons. By following these tips, you can choose the right electric violin for your needs and budget.

Next steps: Once you’ve purchased an electric violin, you’ll need to learn how to play it. There are many resources available online and in libraries that can help you get started.

In Closing

Purchasing an electric violin demands careful examination of one’s musical aspirations, financial means, and desired tonal characteristics. By discerning between solid-body and hollow-body designs, understanding the distinctions between magnetic and piezo pickups, and selecting an appropriate amplifier, musicians can tailor their electric violin to their specific requirements. Experimenting with various models is paramount in identifying the instrument that aligns with both personal playing style and sonic preferences.

Embarking on the journey of electric violin ownership extends beyond the initial purchase. Consistent care and maintenance are essential to preserving the instrument’s longevity and optimal performance. This encompasses regular cleaning of the strings, body, and pickup, as well as storing the violin in a climate-controlled environment when not in use. By adhering to these practices, musicians can ensure their electric violin remains a cherished companion in their musical endeavors.