The electric violin is a string instrument you can plug into an amplifier or hook up to an audio interface. Unlike acoustic violins, electric violins don't have a hollow resonance chamber, meaning it doesn't produce a lot of volume until it's jacked in. Other than that, electric violins are played in the same way as 'normal' violins, using the same kind of bow and strings.
Choosing an Electric Violin at Bax Music
Whether you're scouting for your first electric violin or looking to upgrade to a professional model, Bax Music has got you covered, and if you need any, our specialists can offer advice. Our site is stocked with an array of of different models for you to browse and match with your style, preferred sound and budget.
An Electric Violin or a Silent Violin?
There are a few different kinds of electric violins, and while not every manufacturer is equally consistent in their use of terms like 'electric violin' and 'silent violin', in general, both refer to the same thing. This means both standard electric violins and silent violins can be plugged into an amplifier - the difference is that a silent violin will always come with a headphone output that, as you probably know, allows you to you to practise in silence. Another type of electric violin is the semi-acoustic violin, which is basically an acoustic violin - so a model with a hollow body - equipped with built-in electronics so it can be plugged into an amplifier.
Amplifying an Electric Violin
Unlike acoustic violins, the sound of an electric violin is easy to amplify since the instrument has a solid body equipped with a pickup mounted underneath the nut. Pickups are designed to capture string vibrations and route these to a built-in preamplifier, which is where you'll also usually find the volume and tone controls. From the preamp, the signal is sent to the output jack, which can be connected to an amplifier or audio interface using a standard 6.35mm mono (TS) jack cable. Headphones are usually plugged in using a 6.35mm stereo (TRS) jack cable or a 3.5mm stereo (TRS) mini-jack cable.
How Much is a Good Electric Violin?
The most affordable electric violin starter packs are a little less than £200, while a mid-range model can be picked up for around £700, where the electric violins by Yamaha are notably popular. Our range of professional electric violins starts at roughly £1,400 and it only goes up from there. Just like acoustic violins, the price depends on the construction, materials and the finish. Higher-quality violins have a sonic character of their own and offer a satisfying response that's partly shaped by the fitted pickup or built-in microphone.
An Affordable, Beginner-Friendly Electric Violin Starter Pack with a Bow
As a beginner, it can be hard to decide what you need to get started. Fortunately, there are plenty of starter packs that include a bunch of essential accessories such as resin for the hairs of the bow and, of course, the bow itself. In most cases, a practical storage bag or case also comes included, and depending on the pack, even a pair of headphones and an instrument cable can be part of the deal. This way, you're good to go from the get-go.
Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Violins
What are the benefits of an electric violin?
One of the biggest advantages of an electric violin is that it gives you full control over the volume. In other words, you're free to practise in complete silence or jam it up with the band while, compared to acoustic violins with a pickup, the solid body of an electric violin counters unwanted feedback.
What are the drawbacks of an electric violin?
Electric violins, cheaper models in particular, are relatively heavy which makes them difficult to play for long periods. As such, it's important to pay attention to your posture and to use a shoulder rest if needed. Another downside is that some electric violins sound less natural when compared to traditional violins.
How does the electric violin work?
When the bow is moved across the strings, the hairs of the bow cause the strings to vibrate. The vibrations are then captured by a piezo pickup or a built-in microphone, sent to the integrated preamp and finally routed to the output jack in the form of a signal.
Which electric violin should I buy?
Any electric violin that’s comfortable for your height and suits your playing style and budget is a safe pick. There are various different models available so, if you're having a hard time making your choice, feel free to reach out to us for advice.
How much does an electric violin cost?
Prices for an electric violin start at around £200. Mid-range electric violin are priced between £700 and £1,400, and professional instruments take over from there, running into the thousands.
How many strings does an electric violin have?
A standard electric violin has four strings. There's also the 5-string electric violin, which combines the range of a traditional violin with the range of a viola.
