AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Electric Violins and Violas 2026
The top pick is Yamaha YEV-104 Electric Violin ($949). Harley Benton HBV 800SBK Acoustic-Electric gives you the most for the money at $155. NS Design CR4-VN-AM Electric Violin leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 40 models across 10 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
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All Electric Violins and ViolasTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Yamaha YEV-104 Electric Violin
YEV-104 TBL Electric Violin · Yamaha
10 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
The YEV-104 TBL is a solid entry-level electric violin, offering a good balance of playability and amplified sound. It’s particularly appealing to violin students looking to explore electric violin possibilities or gigging musicians needing a reliable, affordable stage instrument – though serious tone sculptors will likely want to add an external preamp.
Pros
- Spruce/mahogany body offers a surprisingly warm, resonant tone
- Walnut frame adds visual elegance and rigidity
- Ebony pegs and chinrest provide a familiar, comfortable feel for traditional players
Cons
- Plastic tailpiece feels a bit cheap compared to metal alternatives
- Limited tonal shaping options without external effects or preamps
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$949 now$949€849 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardBirch fingerboard
- Size4/4 size
This Harley Benton is a fantastic entry point for aspiring electric violinists or those wanting to experiment with amplified sounds. The carbon fiber body makes it surprisingly robust, and the active pickup provides a usable, clean signal directly to headphones or an amp—perfect for practice, recording, or performing in quieter settings where a traditional acoustic isn't ideal.
Pros
- Carbon fiber body offers surprising durability and resonance.
- Active pickup delivers a clear, amplified signal with reduced noise.
- Includes essential accessories: case, shoulder rest, bow, rosin.
Cons
- Plastic frame feels noticeably less premium than traditional wood construction.
- Birch fingerboard might exhibit slightly higher wear compared to ebony.
66AudioFu
Index↓ 5.9%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$189 · Aug 17$178 now$178€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YEV-105NT Electric Violin
YEV-105 TBL Electric Violin · Yamaha
5 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Strings5-string
The YEV-105 TBL is a solid entry-level electric violin offering a surprisingly good acoustic foundation. It’s well-suited for students and hobbyists looking for a versatile instrument capable of both traditional and experimental sounds, though a preamp will unlock its full potential for performance.
Pros
- Spruce/mahogany body offers a warm, resonant acoustic foundation.
- Maple neck provides excellent sustain and comfortable playability.
- Daddario Helicore strings deliver a bright, focused tone with good projection.
Cons
- 580g weight can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
- Passive output requires a preamp for optimal stage volume and tonal shaping.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,077 now$1,077€964 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- BodyMaple body
- Size4/4 size
The HBV 800SBK is a remarkable entry point into electrified violins. It's surprisingly well-built for the price, offering a usable acoustic voice and a basic amplified signal – ideal for students, beginners, or anyone needing a budget-friendly violin for practice or small gigs where a pristine, studio-quality sound isn’t critical.
Pros
- Solid spruce top provides surprisingly resonant acoustic tone.
- Ebony fretboard and pegs contribute to smooth playability and tuning stability.
- Passive piezo pickup offers a usable amplified signal for basic performance.
Cons
- Piezo pickup’s tone can be brittle and lacks warmth; EQ is essential.
- Solid maple body can feel a bit dense, impacting long playing sessions.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$155 now$155€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha SV-255 5-String Pro Silent Violin
SV-255 Silent Violin · Yamaha
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Strings5-string
The SV-255 is a solid choice for violinists needing silent practice or discreet performance. It nails the feel of a traditional acoustic, with the added bonus of a built-in headphone amp and professional outputs – perfect for students, gigging musicians, or anyone wanting to practice without disturbing others.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a warm, resonant acoustic-like tone
- Dual pickup system offers versatile tonal shaping options
- Ebony fingerboard and pegs provide a familiar, high-quality feel
Cons
- Weight, while similar to acoustic, can still be fatiguing for extended practice
- Limited tonal palette compared to more complex electric violin setups
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,333 now$2,333€2,088 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- BodyPaulownia body
- Size4/4 size
The Harley Benton HBV 870WH is a surprisingly capable entry point into the world of electric violin. It’s ideal for students, hobbyists, or anyone wanting to experiment with effects and looping without a huge investment. The build quality is decent for the price, and it’s genuinely fun to play.
Pros
- Paulownia body provides surprisingly resonant and warm acoustic tone
- Composite tailpiece with fine tuners enhances intonation stability
- Lightweight at 580g, comfortable for extended playing sessions
Cons
- Composite bow lacks the responsiveness of a quality wooden bow
- 3.5mm jack connections limit versatility for professional audio interfaces
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$155 now$155€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings4-string
The SV-250 is a solid entry into the silent violin world. It delivers a surprisingly natural acoustic vibe while offering the quiet practice and connectivity you'd expect. It's a great choice for students, gigging musicians needing discreet amplification, or anyone wanting a traditional feel with modern convenience.
Pros
- Spruce top provides a surprisingly warm, acoustic-like tone
- Ebony fingerboard and pegs offer a premium feel and precise intonation
- Dual pickup system allows for tonal shaping and versatility
Cons
- Limited tonal palette compared to more complex electric violins
- Weight, while similar to an acoustic, can still be fatiguing during long practice sessions
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,122 now$2,122€1,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
- Size4/4 size
This is a straightforward electric violin built for players who want solid tone without extra gear. It uses a passive pickup system so you don't need batteries or external power. The spruce top and maple back give it a warm sound, and it comes with a bow and case. It's perfect for students or gigging musicians who prioritize simplicity over fancy effects.
Pros
- Solid spruce top and maple back construction for reliable tone
- Passive piezo ceramic Shadow pickup system for clean output
- Includes a fibreglass bow and hard case out of the box
Cons
- No active electronics required means limited tone shaping options
- Shoulder rests must be purchased separately to use comfortably
52AudioFu
Index↓ 26.8%since Oct 1 · lowest so far$760 · Oct 1$556 now$556€498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings4-string
The CR4-VN-AM is a beautifully crafted electric violin, perfect for performers seeking a refined, amplified acoustic voice. Its comfortable ergonomics and quality materials make it a joy to play, while the active pickup system provides a warm, focused sound ideal for classical, folk, and contemporary styles. This is a serious instrument for the dedicated player.
Pros
- Solid ebony fingerboard offers exceptional feel and precision.
- NS Design’s proprietary piezo pickup system delivers a warm, responsive tone.
- Integrated shoulder rest and chin rest provide comfortable, stable playing.
Cons
- The maple body, while resonant, can be prone to feedback at high volumes.
- The active electronics require a power source, adding a potential point of failure.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,346 now$4,346€3,890 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings4-string
The NS Design WAV4 is a solid choice for gigging violinists and students wanting a dependable electric instrument. It’s comfortable to hold, delivers a surprisingly authentic acoustic-electric sound, and the included accessories make it a complete package. Perfect for those wanting a reliable, stage-ready violin without the fuss of complex electronics.
Pros
- Solid ebony fingerboard provides excellent clarity and response.
- Passive piezo pickup offers a surprisingly natural acoustic-electric tone.
- NS Design’s ergonomic body design is comfortable for extended playing.
Cons
- The passive pickup lacks the tonal shaping of active systems.
- Solid-body design can feel less resonant compared to traditional violins.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,172 now$1,172€1,049 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 40 electric violins and violas
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
NS Design WAV5 Violin Brilliant WhiteNS Design · 5 finishes49Stable$1,329€1,190$1,329€1,190Check ↗
- 12
Yamaha YSV-104RD Silent ViolinYamaha · 3 finishes47↓ 6.5%$1,127€1,009$1,127€1,009Check ↗
- 13
NS Design CR5-VN-AM Electric ViolinNS Design · 3 finishes46Stable$4,569€4,090$4,569€4,090Check ↗
- 14
NS Design CR6-VN-AM Electric ViolinNS Design · 2 finishes43Stable$5,240€4,690$5,240€4,690Check ↗
- 15
Thomann Europe Electric Violin 4/4 BKThomann · 3 finishes40Stable$502€449$502€449Check ↗
- 16
Gewa Novita 3.0 UA 5-Str. Violin BKGewa · 2 finishes40Stable$1,115€998$1,115€998Check ↗
- 17
NS Design NXT4a-VA-SB Viola Satin Sunb.NS Design40Stable$2,670€2,390$2,670€2,390Check ↗
- 18
NS Design NXT5a-VN-BK-F Violin FrettedNS Design40Stable$2,994€2,680$2,994€2,680Check ↗
- 19
Harley Benton Stage Four Electric Violin FBHarley Benton · 2 finishes38Stable$221€198$221€198Check ↗
- 20
Roth & Junius Acoustic-Electric Violin 5-StrRoth & Junius38Stable$668€598$668€598Check ↗
- 21
Gewa Novita 3.0 Electric Violin BKGewa · 3 finishes38Stable$886€793$886€793Check ↗
- 22
Gewa Novita 3.0 UA Elec. Violin BKGewa · 3 finishes38Stable$911€815$911€815Check ↗
- 23
NS Design NXT5a-VN-SB ViolinNS Design38↑ 4.4%$2,670€2,390$2,670€2,390Check ↗
- 24
NS Design NXT5a-VN-BK ViolinNS Design38↑ 4.4%$2,670€2,390$2,670€2,390Check ↗
- 25
NS Design NXT5a-VN-SB-F Fretted ViolinNS Design38↑ 3.9%$3,005€2,690$3,005€2,690Check ↗
- 26
Fidelius HK-6 Stag Beetle Violin 6-strFidelius37↓ 3.6%$3,005€2,690$3,005€2,690Check ↗
- 27
Gewa Novita 3.0 El. Violin RD/HGGewa · 2 finishes35Stable$1,162€1,040$1,162€1,040Check ↗
- 28
Fidelius F-Trad-5 Electric Violin 5-strFidelius35Stable$2,447€2,190$2,447€2,190Check ↗
- 29
Fidelius HK-4 Stag Beetle Violin 4-strFidelius35Stable$2,503€2,240$2,503€2,240Check ↗
- 30
NS Design NXT4a-VN-SB ViolinNS Design35Stable$2,558€2,290$2,558€2,290Check ↗
- 31
NS Design NXT4a-VN-BK ViolinNS Design35Stable$2,614€2,340$2,614€2,340Check ↗
- 32
NS Design NXT4a-VN-BK-F Fretted ViolinNS Design35Stable$2,726€2,440$2,726€2,440Check ↗
- 33
NS Design NXT4a-VN-SB-F Violin FrettedNS Design35Stable$2,838€2,540$2,838€2,540Check ↗
- 34
Fidelius F-Trad-6 Electric Violin 6-strFidelius35Stable$2,871€2,570$2,871€2,570Check ↗
- 35
sbip V4171BL Electric Violin 4/4sbip32Stable$991€890$991€890Check ↗
- 36
Yamaha SVV 200 BRYamaha32↑ 3.1%$2,256€2,019$2,256€2,019Check ↗
- 37
Fidelius F-Trad-4 Electric Violin 4-strFidelius30Stable$2,201€1,970$2,201€1,970Check ↗
- 38
Alfred Stingl by Höfner AS160 EV Electric ViolinAlfred Stingl by Höfner27Stable$372€333$372€333Check ↗
- 39
Roth & Junius Acoustic-Electric 5-Str Vn SetRoth & Junius26Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 40
Stentor SR1515DPA Electric Violin SetStentor · 2 finishes25Stable$468€419$468€419Check ↗
Electric Violins and Violas by the numbers
Measured across all 99 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,116 — half of all electric violins and violas here cost less.
most common · 14 models
most common · 35 models
median of 39 models · 4-string–6-string
How to choose the best electric violins and violas
Pickup Voicing
This is HUGE. Some pickups are bright and glassy, great for a clean, sparkly tone, but can get ice-picky harsh. Others lean toward a warmer, more rounded sound with a nice fat midrange honk - perfect for cutting through a mix without sounding brittle. Listen closely to demos and try to get your hands on one before you buy.
Body Resonance (or Lack Thereof)
Many electric violins and violas are basically hollow shells with a piezo pickup glued in. This means you lose a lot of the acoustic instrument's natural resonance. Some models incorporate a chamber or use different construction techniques to compensate, but it's a trade-off - often at a higher price point. A solid body will be the most consistent but will feel very different.
Action and Neck Profile
Just like with guitars, a comfortable neck and playable action are essential. A high action will make it a struggle to play fast passages, and a thick, unwieldy neck profile can be a nightmare in a band setting. Pay attention to these details, especially if you're used to a specific feel.
Output Jack and Wiring
Sounds basic, but cheap instruments often skimp here. A flaky output jack or poorly shielded wiring will introduce noise and dropouts - a major headache on stage. Solid construction and good shielding are worth the investment.
Headroom and Dynamics
Electric instruments amplify what's already there. A poorly designed pickup or preamp will clip easily, resulting in a muddy, compressed sound when you try to play with some energy. Look for models with ample headroom to handle dynamic playing and avoid unwanted breakup.
Buying guide
So, you're thinking about going electric with your violin or viola? It's a cool move, opening up a whole new world of sonic possibilities. But ditching the acoustic sound isn't just about plugging in - it's about understanding what you're sacrificing and what you're gaining. Let's break down what to look for, because a poorly chosen electric stringed instrument can sound worse than a budget acoustic - and that's saying something.
Don't expect an electric violin or viola to completely replicate the sound of an acoustic. It's a different beast, and it's usually best to have both. Be wary of super-cheap models - they almost always cut corners on pickups and construction, resulting in a thin, lifeless tone.
Spending a little more gets you better pickups, a more comfortable neck, and a more reliable build - all crucial for gigging and recording.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 99 electric violins and violas from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are electric violins and violas in tune the same way as acoustic ones?
Generally, yes, but intonation can be more sensitive to setup. The piezo pickups can sometimes have a slightly different response to pressure, so a careful setup is key to accurate intonation.
Can I use any amplifier with an electric violin?
Technically, yes, but an acoustic instrument amp or a keyboard amp will usually sound better than a typical guitar amp. The tonal characteristics are different - you want something that emphasizes clarity and warmth, not distortion.
Do I need a bow to play an electric violin?
Absolutely! Unless you're going for a prepared piano type of sound, you'll need a bow. The electric aspect only amplifies the sound, it doesn't change how you produce it.
What's the difference between a piezo pickup and a magnetic pickup on an electric violin?
Piezo pickups are contact mics that sit under the bridge and respond to vibration. Magnetic pickups, like on an electric guitar, sense string vibration. Piezo pickups tend to be brighter and more sensitive, while magnetic pickups offer a warmer, more sustained tone - though they are harder to implement on a stringed instrument.
Can I record an electric violin directly into a DAW?
You can, but a preamp is highly recommended. A preamp will boost the signal and add some coloration, often resulting in a more professional-sounding recording. Some electric violins have built-in preamps, which can be very convenient.
