AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Electric Violins and Violas for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton HBV 800SVM Acoustic-Electric ($150). 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 11, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Size4/4 size
The HBV 800SVM is a truly remarkable entry point into the world of electric violins. It’s a surprisingly well-built instrument, offering a decent acoustic voice and a usable amplified signal – ideal for students, beginners, or anyone wanting to experiment with electric violin sounds without a huge investment. The included accessories are a real bonus, making it a complete and affordable package.
Pros
- Solid spruce top provides a surprisingly resonant and clear acoustic tone.
- Ebony fingerboard and pegs offer smooth playability and tuning stability.
- Passive piezo pickup delivers usable amplified sound, avoiding active battery needs.
Cons
- Piezo pickup's tone can be somewhat brittle and lacks the warmth of magnetic pickups.
- Solid maple body, while visually appealing, contributes to a slightly heavier feel.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$150 now$150€134 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
58AudioFu
Index↓ 6.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$167 · Aug 14$156 now$156€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- BodyBasswood body
- Size4/4 size
The Harley Benton HBV 990AM is a surprisingly capable entry point into the world of electric violins. It's a budget-friendly option ideal for students, beginners, or anyone wanting to experiment with amplified violin sounds without a huge investment. While it's not a professional-grade instrument, it delivers a decent amplified tone and a complete, ready-to-play package.
Pros
- Basswood body offers surprisingly warm, resonant tones for the price.
- Active pickup system provides a usable, amplified signal with minimal noise.
- Complete package includes essential accessories, lowering the initial investment.
Cons
- Plastic frame feels noticeably less robust than traditional wooden construction.
- Composite bow lacks the responsiveness and nuanced feel of a decent Brazilwood bow.
61AudioFu
Index↓ 6.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$178 · Aug 14$167 now$167€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YEV-104 Electric Violin
YEV104 Pro NBL Electric Violin · Yamaha
10 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
The YEV104 Pro NBL is a really solid choice for gigging violinists and studio players who want a natural acoustic feel combined with reliable amplification. The weight reduction is a big deal for comfort, and the ARE treatment makes it surprisingly expressive. It's a great all-rounder – good for everything from classical to folk to more experimental sounds.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a surprisingly warm, resonant acoustic tone even amplified.
- The ARE-treated maple bridge provides a natural, aged acoustic response and improved pickup clarity.
- Reduced weight (approx. 510g) makes extended playing sessions significantly more comfortable.
Cons
- The hollowbody design, while adding resonance, can pick up unwanted stage noise.
- Zyex strings, while decent, might be a first upgrade for serious players seeking a richer tone.
76AudioFu
Index↓ 12.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$1,848 · Aug 14$1,624 now$1,624€1,449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha YEV-105NT Electric Violin
YEV105 Pro DR Electric Violin · Yamaha
6 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Strings5-string
The YEV105 Pro DR is a seriously refined electric violin. Yamaha's made a big leap in comfort and acoustic projection here; it’s surprisingly warm for a piezo. Ideal for gigging violinists or students wanting a professional instrument without the full acoustic violin setup and amplification headaches.
Pros
- Lightweight design (approx. 550g lighter) enhances playing comfort significantly.
- ARE-treated maple bridge delivers a surprisingly resonant and warm acoustic tone.
- Zyex/Helicore string set provides a balanced, modern, and articulate sound.
Cons
- Limited tonal versatility compared to more complex pickup systems or acoustic-electric hybrids.
- Deep Red finish might not appeal to all players; color options are restricted.
71AudioFu
Index↓ 6.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$2,006 · Aug 14$1,869 now$1,869€1,668 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha SV-255 5-String Pro Silent Violin
SV-255 Silent Violin · Yamaha
4 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
53AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 14$2,342 · Aug 14$2,340 now$2,340€2,088 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
51AudioFu
Index↑ 5.6%since Aug 14$2,016 · Aug 14$2,128 now$2,128€1,899 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 14Aug 14$4,359 now$4,359€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 14Aug 14$1,176 now$1,176€1,049 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
This is a solid-body 5-string violin in brilliant white that plays smoothly thanks to the ebony fingerboard. The passive piezo pickup means you don't need a battery, making it simple to plug in. It comes with a case and rest, which is great for transport. This setup suits players who want a warm tone without the hassle of active electronics.
Pros
- Solid body design gives a warm, focused tone
- Passive piezo pickup needs no external power
- Ebony fingerboard offers smooth, fast playability
Cons
- No active electronics or preamp included
- No output jack or cable mentioned
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,334 now$1,334€1,190 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 CR5-VN-AM Electric ViolinNS Design · 3 finishes46Stable$4,583€4,090$4,583€4,090Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton Artist Solo Elec. Violin 4/4Harley Benton45Stable$762€680$762€680Check ↗
- 13
Gewa Novita 3.0 Electric Violin BKGewa · 3 finishes43↓ 13.0%$889€793$889€793Check ↗
- 14
Gewa Novita 3.0 UA 5-Str. Violin BKGewa · 2 finishes43↓ 4.9%$1,118€998$1,118€998Check ↗
- 15
NS Design CR6-VN-AM Electric ViolinNS Design · 2 finishes43Stable$5,256€4,690$5,256€4,690Check ↗
- 16
Yamaha YSV-104BR Silent ViolinYamaha · 3 finishes42↓ 7.4%$1,119€999$1,119€999Check ↗
- 17
Gewa Novita 3.0 UA Elec. Violin GBGewa · 3 finishes41↓ 7.3%$913€815$913€815Check ↗
- 18
NS Design NXT4a-VA-SB Viola Satin Sunb.NS Design40Stable$2,678€2,390$2,678€2,390Check ↗
- 19
NS Design NXT5a-VN-BK-F Violin FrettedNS Design40Stable$3,003€2,680$3,003€2,680Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton Stage Four Electric Violin FBHarley Benton · 2 finishes38Stable$222€198$222€198Check ↗
- 21
Thomann Europe Electric Violin 4/4 WHThomann · 3 finishes38↑ 4.7%$503€449$503€449Check ↗
- 22
Roth & Junius Acoustic-Electric Violin 5-StrRoth & Junius38Stable$670€598$670€598Check ↗
- 23
NS Design NXT5a-VN-SB ViolinNS Design38↑ 4.4%$2,678€2,390$2,678€2,390Check ↗
- 24
NS Design NXT5a-VN-BK ViolinNS Design38↑ 4.4%$2,678€2,390$2,678€2,390Check ↗
- 25
NS Design NXT5a-VN-SB-F Fretted ViolinNS Design38↑ 3.9%$3,014€2,690$3,014€2,690Check ↗
- 26
Fidelius HK-6 Stag Beetle Violin 6-strFidelius37↓ 3.6%$3,014€2,690$3,014€2,690Check ↗
- 27
Gewa Novita 3.0 El. Violin RD/HGGewa · 2 finishes35Stable$1,165€1,040$1,165€1,040Check ↗
- 28
Yamaha SVV 200 BRYamaha35↓ 3.4%$2,262€2,019$2,262€2,019Check ↗
- 29
Fidelius F-Trad-5 Electric Violin 5-strFidelius35Stable$2,454€2,190$2,454€2,190Check ↗
- 30
Fidelius HK-4 Stag Beetle Violin 4-strFidelius35Stable$2,510€2,240$2,510€2,240Check ↗
- 31
NS Design NXT4a-VN-SB ViolinNS Design35Stable$2,566€2,290$2,566€2,290Check ↗
- 32
NS Design NXT4a-VN-BK ViolinNS Design35Stable$2,622€2,340$2,622€2,340Check ↗
- 33
NS Design NXT4a-VN-BK-F Fretted ViolinNS Design35Stable$2,734€2,440$2,734€2,440Check ↗
- 34
Fidelius F-Trad-6 Electric Violin 6-strFidelius35Stable$2,880€2,570$2,880€2,570Check ↗
- 35
Alfred Stingl by Höfner AS160 EV Electric ViolinAlfred Stingl by Höfner33↓ 12.1%$373€333$373€333Check ↗
- 36
NS Design NXT4a-VN-SB-F Violin FrettedNS Design33↑ 4.1%$2,846€2,540$2,846€2,540Check ↗
- 37
sbip V4171BL Electric Violin 4/4sbip32Stable$997€890$997€890Check ↗
- 38
Fidelius F-Trad-4 Electric Violin 4-strFidelius30Stable$2,208€1,970$2,208€1,970Check ↗
- 39
Roth & Junius Acoustic-Electric 5-Str Vn SetRoth & Junius26Stable$727€649$727€649Check ↗
- 40
Stentor SR1515A Electric Violin SetStentor · 2 finishes25Stable$492€439$492€439Check ↗
Electric Violins and Violas by the numbers
Measured across all 99 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,119 — half of all electric violins and violas here cost less.
most common · 35 models
median of 39 models · 4-string–6-string
most common · 14 models
How to choose the best electric violins and violas
Playability
This is paramount for beginners. A chunky neck profile or high action will make learning harder. We're looking for something comfortable under your fingers, with a manageable string tension - especially if you're coming from acoustic.
Pickup Voicing
Cheap pickups often sound brittle and ice-picky, lacking warmth and body. Beginners need a pickup that's forgiving and produces a usable tone even with less-than-perfect technique. Avoid anything that screams 'harsh' right out of the box.
Amplification & Output
Do you need a preamp? Some electric violins/violas are passive, needing an amp, while others have built-in preamps for direct connection. For a beginner, a simple output jack is often best to avoid complexity, but consider the headroom if you plan to gig.
Construction & Durability
Let's be honest, you're probably going to be rough with your first electric. A solid wood body is preferable, but laminated woods are okay if they keep the price down. Cheap plastic parts are a red flag - they won't survive a gig bag beating.
Adjustability
The ability to adjust the action, intonation, and pickup height is crucial. Even a beginner will eventually want to tweak things to get the instrument playing its best. A poorly adjustable instrument is a frustration waiting to happen.
Buying guide
So, you're thinking about going electric with your violin or viola? Awesome! It opens up a whole new world of sonic possibilities, but picking your first electric stringed instrument can be overwhelming. It's not just about plugging in - you need something that's playable, won't fight your technique, and won't sound like a strangled cat through a PA. Let's cut through the noise and find you something that'll actually inspire you to play.
Don't chase the 'deals' that sound too good to be true - they almost always are. Beginner electric violins/violas often cut corners on pickups and construction. Paying a bit more for something with decent components and a playable setup will save you headaches later.
Focus on playability and a usable, neutral tone, and you'll be much happier in the long run.
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
Do I need an amplifier?
It depends! Some electric instruments are passive and require an amp. Others have built-in preamps for direct connection to a PA system or audio interface. Start with something simple - a small practice amp is a good option.
What's the difference between a violin and a viola's electric version?
Essentially, the body size is different. Violas are larger and tuned lower. Electric models follow that same design. Pick the right size for your hands and the range you want to play.
Can I use regular violin/viola strings?
Yes, but experiment! Different strings will drastically change the tone. Steel strings will be brighter and louder, while synthetic core strings offer a more traditional feel. It's all about finding what sounds best through an amp.
How do I adjust the intonation?
Intonation is critical. Most electric instruments have adjustable bridges. Small adjustments to the bridge position will raise or lower the pitch - it's a delicate process, so watch some videos or get a teacher's help if you're unsure.
Are electric violins/violas easy to record?
They absolutely can be! A direct connection to an audio interface is clean and simple. Experiment with amp sims and effects to get a unique sound. Just be mindful of noise - a good ground can make a huge difference.
