The 10 Best Violins  Sep 2023

Full-size: A full-size violin is just what it sounds like: a violin that is designed and built for adult.

Smaller sizes: Smaller models are a better choice for younger students as they are smaller versions of the instrument that are designed for smaller arms and hands. The sizes are listed in fractions, including 1/2-size, 7/8-size, etc.

Electric: Most violins are acoustic instruments, but solid-bodied electric models are available for musicians who have more modern tastes.

Here are some things that reviewers write about when giving feedback about their violin purchases:

• Sound quality: This is the most common comment from reviewers, and for good reason: there is no point purchasing an instrument that can’t produce a rich, deep sound, which is what the best models do.
• Quality of components: Reviewers go into detail when talking about what works (or doesn’t work) with their violins, often giving detailed comments on the individual components of an instrument—the quality of the strings, bridge, tuning pegs, and so forth. Great violins start with great parts, so it’s no surprise that the most satisfied musicians spend a lot of time talking about the excellent materials the manufacturer used.
• Tuning: A violin needs to be tuned before each use, and sometimes more than once during long sessions. Better instruments are easy to tune and will stay in tune for much longer than lower-quality models.
• Comfort: The most satisfied reviewers go into detail about how comfortable it is to play their violin—especially when referring to the shoulder padding and chin rest.

When purchasing any musical instrument, it’s essential that you get a sense of the model’s quality, so be sure to pay attention to user reviews. When looking at product descriptions, here are some things to note:

• Kit contents: In some cases, the kit that’s being sold is a bare-bones affair, with just the violin and a bow. If you already have accessories, that might be all you need. However, if you’re just starting out, it might be worth the money to buy a kit that comes with other tools to get you started.
• Size: Make sure that you pick the right instrument for your needs; for instance, if you’re purchasing one for an adult, look out for terms like “full size” or “4/4” in the product description.
• String type: Some violins come with strings that are specially-designed for beginners, while others come with strings that require more experience to play well, but which reward the violinist with an excellent sound. Be sure to pick a model that comes with strings appropriate to your experience level.
• Wood type: This is a bit of an advanced point, but it’s an important one. Different woods produce different sound qualities, so take a look at the wood that your prospective model is made of. 

Stentor: Stentor is a British company that specializes in producing musical instruments for students. The company’s stated goals include providing excellent instruments at a fair price so that all young people can have the experience of learning to play.

Mendini: Mendini produces violins and other musical instruments for student musicians. The company is known for providing quality equipment for beginners and does so at a decent price.

Cecilio: Cecilio is a manufacturer of violins and other instruments—as well as a variety of musical accessories—with student musicians’ needs in mind.

Cremona: Cremona has been producing violins and related accessories since 1989. The company produces instruments in all sizes, as well as ones that are designed for musicians at all skill levels, from beginners to professionals.