7 Best Yamaha Violins in 2021 – Reviews & Analysis

 

Top Yamaha Violins – Guide & Comparison

 

If you’ve always dreamed of having the best Yamaha violin, you should rely on our advice to get you closer to achievement. We’ve looked at various indicators such as customer feedback and social media activity and concluded our research with a top-notch violin, the Yamaha V3. This entry-level instrument is excellent if you’re a beginner and you want durability and great sound. Plus, it is handcrafted using traditional methods, the unit provides a high-quality fitting and comfortable chin rest. Moreover, the pegs and the fingerboard is manufactured from beautiful ebony. Thanks to the tailpiece adjuster you can quickly tune this violin. If somehow the Yamaha V3 is unavailable, make sure you go and check out the Yamaha Standard AV5, the second best in line.

 

 

Comparison Table

 

 

 

7 Best Yamaha Violins (Reviews) in 2021

 

To narrow down your search, we’ve also made a small list of product suggestions that might suit your style and needs. Every violin showcased here has managed to score enough positive reviews so it can be considered as one of the best violins from Yamaha.

 

 

1. Antoni Student Violin Outfit

 

If you want to study the violin properly, you need to start by getting a musical instrument that sounds great and allows you to learn everything step-by-step, without putting too much effort. So, it’s best to get a complete kit such as this model right here.

This violin boasts a reliable construction and the size is appropriate if you’re an entry level violin student. Furthermore, the tool is handcrafted using the same traditional technique used for high-end violins.

The violin is quite sturdy due to the superior wood that has been thoroughly dried using environmentally controlled conditions that ensure its durability and reliability.

You can take the violin with you at your practice or music gig because the unit features a lightweight case and a strap that make transportation effortlessly.

Both the pegs and the fingerboard are manufactured from ebony. Also, even if you’re a beginner, you won’t have problems with tuning the violin because of the tailpiece adjusters that incorporate the Wittner-style on all strings.

 

Pros

Built with beginners in mind, this violin kit includes a variety of items that will help you play right away. It can even be fit if you want to buy a violin for kids.

A beginner’s sonic journey might get challenging at times; therefore, the violin was sized to make it comfortable for the entry-level player to engage in long practice sessions. We recommend you use a tuner as well since your violin might go out of tune during practice.

The violin sports a reliable and durable construction that will make sure you get to employ it for a long time. 

The lightweight case and comfortable strap included ensure ease of transportation and storage and also make this kit ideal for musicians who are on the road quite often.

The violin was built to help players tune the instrument with ease and thus comes with tailpiece adjusters designed to ensure such benefits.

 

Cons

Keep in mind that this kit might be a better choice for students and young players and not advanced musicians. 

Buy from Amazon.com for ($790)

 

 

 

2. Yamaha Standard Model AV5 violin outfit

 

When shopping for a good violin, you need to pay attention to the fine details because these are the ones that make the most significant difference. Things such as the type of wood and finish must be top-notch if you don’t want to spend money on a violin that needs a replacement afterward.

This unit is an excellent choice for a violin because the top is built from a spruce aged for more than five years. Besides, the bottom of the violin boasts a 2-piece back made of 5 years aged maple wood.

The violin is hand-carved which means that the finish is oil finished and carefully applied to look like an expensive musical instrument.

Another interesting fact is that the violin is outfitted with rosewood fittings that you won’t find at violins in this price range.

Moreover, this piece comes with a Glasser bow and stackable case made of plastic that comes in handy for concert performance or practice. It’s the same as trumpets that come with the mouthpiece or transport box, you don’t have to pay extra money in order to get more and that is always a bonus.

The instrument along with the accessories are backed by a 5-year warranty that covers any craft issues.

 

Pros

If you’re serious about playing the violin and you need a durable instrument that will help you engage in countless practice sessions and gigs, this unit should not be ignored.

The top of the violin features spruce whereas its bottom boasts maple wood aged for 5 years, which means that you can rest assured that this item won’t break or fail anytime soon. 

The hand-carved unit comes with a carefully applied finish that will further add to the quality and durability of the item while enhancing its elegance. 

To enable you to use the unit right away, the pack also includes a Glasser bow as well as a quality case that will help you enjoy enhanced ease of storage and transportation. 

 

Cons

The unit is advertised as a student instrument; however, some of the buyers who tried it say it can also fit the needs of an advanced player. 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

3. Yamaha Electric Violin YEV104NT

 

If you’re new to violin playing and you want to start with small steps and practice alone, in the privacy of your own home or whenever you have some time to spare, you might want to consider an electric violin. A silent or electric violin is the perfect choice for anyone that needs simplicity and practicality. Plus, it looks stylish and has a modern design that can’t be overlooked.

This musical instrument is incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver. You’ll have a great time trying to play along with your favorite tunes. Just plug the electric violin into an amplifier, purchased separately, and start doing your thing.

There’s no need to check for batteries or preamps because this piece can be used straight after you unpack it.

Also, the violin provides clear sounds without being too costly. It is manufactured from 6 different types of woods that are responsible for the natural and resonant sound of this instrument.

 

Pros

Advertised as a reliable instrument for beginners, this violin should not go unchecked if you want an electric instrument that will enable you to practice with ease.

Committed to providing beginners with practicality and ease of use, this unit features a lightweight body that will keep you comfortable even when you engage in long practice sessions. 

To keep up with extended use, the item features 6 different types of wood that will not only ensure durability but will also help you produce a natural and clear sound. 

Its design also makes it popular among violing players as this model boasts a stylish and sleek body that will add nice visuals to your performance.

Furthermore, the lightweight construction makes it easy to maneuver and transport. 

 

Cons

The unit does not come with an amplifier and, if you don’t have one already, you will have to buy it separately, which adds to the final cost.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($610)

 

 

 

4. Yamaha SV-200 Silent Violin Performance Model

 

Violin beginners benefit more from a silent violin because they can fast learn how to play this instrument properly and use it for practicing modern sounds. Moreover, they tend to be a tad more affordable than acoustic violins.

This unit could be the ideal match for your needs because it comes with an oval shaped neck and a thin layer of finish that ensures an identical feeling similar to playing the acoustic violin.

The tone delivered by this piece is natural and pure which makes it an excellent tool for playing in the studio or performing at a music concert.

Furthermore, the dual piezo pickups enable a great dynamic range.

Thanks to the repositioned output jack, you won’t have to stumble upon cables when trying to feel comfortable during music practice. Also, the lower bout can accommodate any standard size of shoulder rest.

Because the neck has an unfinished design, you won’t feel any difference between this violin and a standard acoustic tool.

 

Pros

Boasting a stylish body, this silent violin is committed to helping beginners advance their skills and explore the sonic properties of violins with greater ease.

Thanks to the oval-shaped neck and the finish used, you won’t feel that this is not an acoustic instrument.

The unit was designed to provide you with a natural and pure tone that renders it a good choice for both studio and concert performances. 

To further help you explore, the item comes with dual piezo pickups that ensure a great dynamic range and 2 EQ modes for an enhanced dry signal or acoustic tone. 

The repositioned output jack will further add to your comfort when playing as the cable won’t get in your way and the lower bout will accommodate all standard shoulder rests. 

 

Cons

Some users have found the unit to fall a bit on the expensive side yet they have appreciated the performance delivered. 

Click to see the price on Amazon!

 

 

 

5. Yamaha Electric Violin YEV105NT Natural 5 String

 

Playing the violin requires hours of practice and commitment to become better and better with every music session. If you’ve already decided to invest in this enjoyable activity, you should start by getting an all-access electric violin, like this beautiful model described in the lines below.

Lightweight and simple to handle, you won’t have to worry about setting up this violin. Once you get it out of the box, just plug it into a regular violin or guitar amplifier, and start playing the music you like best.

In addition, this piece is quite affordable which makes it great for an entry-level violin player.

The modern design of this electric violin is extremely appealing because the unit is built from 4 different types of woods. These add a natural and resonant sound to the instrument which comes in handy if you want to engage in stage performances.

You don’t need batteries or headphones if you want a quick practicing session.

 

Pros

Lightweight yet durable, this instrument is an all-access electric violin that will help beginners and even more advanced players practice more and do so with greater ease.

To make things easier for you, this unit just needs to be plugged into an amplifier in order for you to enjoy its benefits and explore your sonic personality; therefore, there is no complicated setup process involved.

Furthermore, the item requires no headphones or batteries, so you can easily employ it for a quick practice session.

The unit is made from 4 different types of wood that make it possible for the instrument to deliver a natural and resonant sound.

Considering the sonic capabilities of this instrument, the item can be employed for both home and onstage performances. 

 

Cons

At least one buyer says that beginners might find it a bit difficult to play on all 5 strings at first yet that becomes easier with time.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($665)

 

 

 

6. Yamaha V3 Series Student Violin Outfit

 

Even if you’re a beginner, you should get a violin that looks and sounds great. It’s vital that you have the opportunity to develop your skills and work on your musical talent with a reliable tool.

This is one of the reasons why you’ll be impressed with this complete kit that boasts a sturdy construction and excellent support.

The violin is made by hand using traditional methods that are applied to expensive musical instruments. In addition to this, the unit comes with everything that you need to play the violin without any restriction. If you opt for this model, you’ll get a lightweight carrying case as well as a bow and rosin.

Besides, the tool is manufactured from superior quality woods that are dried under environmentally controlled conditions which makes it safer even for children use.

You can rest assured you’ll feel comfortable while playing this violin due to the chin rest, pegs, and fingerboard, made from ebony.

 

Pros

If a quality and reliable instrument is what you have in mind, this unit is worth taking into account as it will help you engage in countless practice sessions and explore your sonic path. 

The kit includes everything you need to start playing right away; therefore, you will get a sturdy violin, a bow, and rosin. 

Furthermore, the lightweight yet durable case and straps included will make it easy for you to store the instrument or carry it from one place to another. 

The violin features quality woods that will keep up with extended use and thoughtfully-designed chin rest, pegs, and fingerboard, so you can play for hours without your comfort being affected.

To make tuning easier for beginners, the tailpieces featured include Wittner-style adjusters on each string. 

 

Cons

The unit is designed with beginners and young players in mind; therefore, it might not be an inspired choice for more advanced musicians. 

Buy from Amazon.com for ($695)

 

 

 

7. Yamaha Standard Model AV7 Violin

 

Getting a low-quality violin might not be your best option because, in time, you’ll level up and want to make a move to an advanced instrument. Instead of making two purchases, you could get a top-notch violin from the very beginning.

You might like this acoustic violin because it comes with a top made from aged spruce for more than five years while the bottom consists of a 2-piece back built from durable maple wood. Plus, the fittings of the violin are created from solid and good-looking ebony.

The violin is entirely hand-carved and features a Wittner tailpiece and hand-applied oil varnish.

Not to mention the fact that the tool comes with a brazilwood bow and an oblong cloth-covered case to protect the violin from scratches and other types of damages.

You can rest assured you won’t have to spend time setting up this musical piece because it is outfitted with professional adjustments that meet and even exceed the MENC standards.

 

Pros

With this violin, you get to explore your sonic personality and give it countless shapes for a long time thanks to its durable build. 

To make sure you will get to use it for countless practice sessions and gigs, the violin features a durable spruce top and maple back as well as ebony fittings. 

The hand-applied oil varnish, hand-carved body, and Wittner tailpiece further contribute to the durability of this unit as well as to its stylish design that can only complement your performance. 

The cloth-covered case included in the pack will help you protect the instrument while not in use and transport it from one place to another with ease. 

To enable you to start using it right upon arrival, the violin comes with a brazilwood bow.  

 

Cons

Beginners might find the violin a bit expensive yet such an instrument will cover your needs even when you advance your skills. 

Buy from Amazon.com for ($1495)

 

 

 

Yearly Guide & Report

 

Most people have difficulties in choosing a violin for the first time. If you’re a first-time player and you need to get a good Yamaha violin, you must be aware of certain aspects and features. It’s not an easy task trying to find that violin that sounds excellent, suits your playing style, and feels comfortable during long hours of practice.

Firstly, you should learn the basics of a violin and what quality you need to get to perform at the level you desire. Depending on your skill level, you should opt for something that doesn’t require a complicated setup. Nevertheless, with so many Yamaha violins for sale, you have a good chance of finding something that does an excellent job for you, and is in your price range.

Type of tonewood

Every violin is made the same. It features four strings that are stretched over the body of the violin, a tailpiece and a comfortable chin rest at one end, and a pegbox and neck at the other end.  While the construction doesn’t differ much, not all violins are manufactured equal, and it all comes down to the type of tone and playability provided by a musical instrument of this kind. These are connected to the tonewood and the skill with which the violin is created.

As far as tonewood goes, most violins are outfitted with similar spruce tops, necks, and maple backs. The reason is quite apparent; everyone is looking for pieces that are affordable but still borrow some features from high-end violins.

What sets a great violin apart from a cheap Yamaha violin is the quality of the materials and spruce because these are crucial when it comes to selecting a violin.

According to many Yamaha violin reviews, you need to pay attention to the top of the instrument because this is where the soundboard is placed. This small piece is the one that amplifies the sounds made by the violin strings.

Over the past centuries, violin manufacturers and carvers have opted for spruce because it comes with a natural density and stiffness that can’t be overlooked. It’s such a great material that it can enhance the resonance of the violin. In comparison to porous woods, spruce can maintain the same shape during the carving stage.

However, not all species of spruce make it to the process of building a violin. There’s one important detail that needs to be taken into account. Because it’s well known that trees located in colder areas give denser and more resonant pieces of wood, they are ideal for excellent spruce.

If a spruce ages for an extended period, it will get stronger and drier. Because of this, the construction of the violin is sturdier and durable.

Also, a block of spruce that grows at a high altitude is an excellent candidate for the material needed during the carving of the violin.

Besides the spruce, another key element for a great piece of a violin is the grain. Typically, violins that feature a smooth finish have small parts of spruce located on the top that create a unique and appealing pattern.

The durability and the clear sound are ensured by other kinds of wood that are preferred for the remaining body of the violin. For instance, the fingerboard is made of ebony because it gives a glossy and stylish look.

Nevertheless, you’ll notice several models on the market that aren’t so pricey and have the tailpiece as well as the chin rest manufactured from plastic while the fingerboard boasts an inferior quality of wood.

Although high-end violins are rather expensive, they don’t have a flaw. If you need something that will last for many years to come, it’s a good investment to get a violin that benefits from thin coats of oil varnish. These give the instrument a gorgeous patina. If you would like a more affordable option you can always go for a Cremona violin (check our review).

 

Acoustic vs Electric violins

When talking about the differences between an acoustic violin and an electric one, it’s hard to choose a favorite. They both provide almost the same features, and they work flawlessly, depending on the musician’s needs.

Even though you can fit Yamaha violin pickups to an acoustic tool, the best Yamaha electric violin comes with built-up pickups that manage to amplify the sound up until the desired level.

Because they must avoid the feedback given by the resonance in the hollow body, electric or silent violins are equipped with solid bodies and feature simple designs that are meant to reduce their weight.

In case you didn’t know, acoustic instruments give that warm and round tone due to the natural resonance provided by the tonewoods. On the other hand, electric violins generate an electronic signal that is tweaked and more enhanced. However, it sounds brighter and rawer than the tone you hear when using an acoustic violin.

If you’re more into classical or folk music, you should go with acoustic instruments because they are more compatible with this kind of musical genres. Also, if you like to play some rock or jazz occasionally, electric violins are a must.

Since electric pieces allow the user just to plug it and then play their favorite jams, it’s logical that they are most handy for band musicians who need amplified sounds.

If you’re in the market for a new violin, you must think carefully about what style of music suits you best. Children and teens are more prone to choosing an electric violin because they allow them to practice without disturbing the others. Acoustic and electric violins maintain the same level of playing dynamics, so it’s not a difficult decision to make if you want to make a transition.

Size

Depending on how much knowledge you have in regards to playing the violin, you can opt for an instrument that allows you to develop your skills and learn new techniques.

One essential aspect you need to determine is what violin you like because this type you’ll use for the years to come. If you’re an entry-level violin student, you can ask for advice from your music teacher or a sales person that works at a music shop. Advanced players already know what instrument sounds better in their hands, so they don’t have trouble finding the proper music tools.

Nevertheless, no matter the unit you like best, it’s recommended that you check the size of the violin because it must fit your body type and size. Moreover, other aspects influence the size of the violin such as age, hand shape, and strength.

Violins come in nine sizes. Kids aged 11 or older require standard or full-sized violins. You’ll find various number sizes like ¾, ½, and so on. If you feel clueless about what violin size suits your body, all you have to do is to measure starting from your neck base until your wrist or palm. Once you’ve got an accurate number, take a look at the size chart provided by the violin manufacturer or check the Internet for online information.

Don’t forget to search for Yamaha violin bows to complete your violin kit because these match your instrument and provide a more comfortable playing experience.

 

Skill

Prior to making a final shopping decision, you need to determine in which skill category you fit in. If you take a quick look at a violin description, you’ll notice labels that mention if an instrument is specially designed for an entry-level, intermediate, professional or advanced violin player.

Even though you don’t have to stick to these indicators, they do serve as a useful guide given the fact that every violin manufacturer has developed its own set of quality standards and these classifications help people narrow down their search.

Violins for beginners showcase a cheap wood and have the tuning pegs as well as the chinrest and fingerboard made of plastic. The only advantage is that these violins are affordable and can be used by anyone willing to learn the violin starting with the basics.

Intermediate violin players can use advanced instruments because they already have the know-how and it’s clear that they want to keep on gaining more knowledge. Many music stores use this intermediate label for their products, but in reality, there’s no such as thing. Just go ahead and choose a violin that doesn’t cost a fortune and you’ll be more than pleased. The only thing that matters is for you to be happy with your acquisition and choose something that you can play with even if your skill level improves substantially.

Master violins are the most expensive ones because they have all the cool features that you ever dreamed of. The wood used for their construction is perfectly aged and dried, so the violin looks like a piece of jewelry. Furthermore, the entire body of the violin is handcrafted by a master luthier and assembled so that everything stays intact for decades to come. Also, a master musical instrument has an ebony fingerboard and a wooden tailpiece.

 

 

Frequently asked questions about acoustic guitar strings

 

Q: Are Yamaha violins good?

In case you were wondering, Yamaha, is a music company that was founded at the beginning of the 19th century. Established by the Nippon Gakki Company, Yamaha focused on pianos and reed instruments.

Today, she’s one of the biggest music instrument manufacturers in the world and every product released are an excellent option for anyone looking for quality at affordable prices. Yes, Yamaha violins are good because they are made from outstanding materials, benefit from rich expertise in the field, and have the appropriate size to match any body type or skill level.

 

 

Q: How much does a Yamaha violin cost?

Every violin player knows that the quality of an instrument reflects in its features and not necessarily the cost. Yamaha violins are more than affordable and offer a 5-year warranty which is great if you consider the fact that most violins on the market don’t provide such high bonus.

Moreover, if your violin has craftsmanship defects, you get a replacement or repairs. The best part is that this warranty covers any model sold by Yamaha, including entry-level violins or high-end instruments. So, you can rest assured that having such an excellent plus your violin won’t get broken fast.

 

Q: Where are Yamaha violins made?

Yamaha has managed to become one of the world’s largest manufacturers of numerous types of musical instruments, such as pianos, drums, violins, headphones, and so on. Everything you could possibly need to perform at a concert or develop your music skills, you’ll find among its portfolio of products.

Yamaha has different subsidiaries and affiliates in Japan and overseas markets. The violins are manufactured mostly in Japan. This is where the Yamaha Music Foundation was founded in 1966. Thanks to this society, Yamaha created the perfect place for students to learn music and present their compositions.

 

Q: What are Yamaha violins made from?

The main reason why Yamaha violins are so famous is that they are made from top-notch quality woods. The process of manufacturing a violin takes time because the wood used is stored at a cold temperature in a location where humidity is control 24/7, 365 days a year.

This preserves the moisture in the woods which leads to perfect pieces of spruce. The top of the violins is manufactured from a light but solid spruce. To have a smooth look, only strong pieces where the fibers run straight go under the hatchet. In addition, both sides of the music piece are made of maple.

 

Q: What makes a Yamaha violin worth considering?

When people heard about Yamaha, they instantly think of all the musical devices they have that are manufactured by this company. Because it has such a broad portfolio of products, Yamaha has managed to grow decade after decade and bring new and innovative ideas on the market. Without their inventions, musicians from all over the world would have a hard time finding something inexpensive but high-quality.

If you’re looking for a violin that doesn’t empty your bank account, but you don’t feel confident to purchase any brand, you can rest assured a Yamaha piece will do an excellent job.

When talking about best violins, there are different levels of best. Ideally, all violin players dream of having a genuine Stradivarius violin, but not everyone has the budget for this type of precious musical jewelry.

Depending on how developed your violin skills are, you should go with a tool that suits your abilities and not one that has been praised by others. Moreover, sometimes, it’s not the skill level that matters most in a shopping decision for a violin but the musical genre that you like to play most.

According to several experts in the music field, there are specific aspects that determine whether a violin is tremendous or low-quality. If the materials used in the manufacturing process is aged in perfect conditions, it’s a major plus. This means the violin is sturdy enough and durable. Furthermore, if it comes with proper expertise and has a size that suits your body type and skills, you should make up your mind easier because this is what you need to practice in complete safety and comfort.

This is what makes Yamaha an essential leader in the industry. The fact their violins don’t cost much but look and sound like high-end products is something worth considering.

Another important reason why you should opt for a Yamaha violin is that they provide a full range of violin sizes from ½, 1/16, up until 4/4. Plus, they manufacture a ⅞ size which comes in handy for musicians that aren’t so tall but need to play a full-size violin.

 

 

What you need to know about Yamaha’s Silent Violin

 

If you always thought that a Yamaha electric violin has the same features such a Yamaha silent violin, you are wrong. The fact is that they can be a bit confusing because they are both electric devices that plug into an amplifier. The significant difference is that a silent violin comes with a headphone option that allows you to connect it to an amp. This way, you can practice the violin without disturbing your entire neighborhood.

About 20 years ago, Yamaha had a terrific idea that worked excellently in Japan. Silent violins were an instant hit there because people in this country live so close to each other that it is nearly impossible to play the violin without being heard by everyone around you.

However, when Yamaha entered the U.S.A. market, it needed some rebranding because Americans don’t mind the noise.

Even so, Yamaha brought something new and innovative that opened the way for numerous other brands to follow.

The Yamaha Silent violin offers all sorts of sound control options to choose from. You can make unprocessed sounds that are similar to the ones you hear in big concert music halls.

Also, this violin features a power output of the pickup which allows you to effortlessly make special effects such as distortions or delays and augment the sound to an external processor. A violin of this kind is an excellent choice if you need to practice in silence, play at live performances, and record music.

Nowadays, the success of the Yamaha silent violin is seen as a turning point in the industry of electric musical instruments. Mainly students and teachers are grateful for the fact that this unique practice method allows any user to simply insert a headphone jack and start jamming.

Before the silent violin was a thing, you had to find a corner inside a music store or pawn shop away from everyone’s ears. It was a bit frustrating not being able to find a quiet place to rehearse your songs. When Yamaha came to the surface with this type of electric violin, it became an indispensable music tool for anyone that just wanted to plug in and make their songs heard.

However, at first, there were a few people that noticed that the silent violin produced distortions when they plugged in the amp. Because of this, Yamaha took notice and responded with two over-the-top products that were outfitted with adaptor plates that could quickly connect to amps. Modern versions have the ¼ jack built-in straight into the violin and are incredibly lightweight.

 

 

Bibliography:

1) What’s the Difference Between Professional and Student Violins?

2) Yamaha Corporation products

3) What is the difference between violins?