AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Electric Violins and Violas for Professional 2026
The top pick is NS Design CR6-VN-PB Electric Violin ($5,368). Yamaha YEV-104 Electric Violin gives you the most for the money at $1,624. 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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- Strings6-string
The CR6-VN-PB is a seriously unique instrument—a 6-string electric violin designed for adventurous players. It’s fantastic for experimental musicians, film composers, or anyone wanting a truly expanded sonic palette and comfortable practice options with the headphone jack. Be prepared for a learning curve with the extra strings, but the tonal possibilities are huge.
Pros
- Poplar Burl top provides stunning aesthetics and surprisingly resonant tone.
- Polar pickup system delivers a wide range of tonal options, from acoustic to electric.
- Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional playability and a smooth, consistent feel.
Cons
- The 6-string configuration may feel unwieldy for traditional violinists.
- Maple body construction can be somewhat resonant, potentially amplifying unwanted vibrations.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$5,368 now$5,368€4,790 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings4-string
The CR4-VA-AM is a fantastic option for serious viola players wanting a stage-ready amplified instrument. The build quality is superb, and the active pickups provide a really usable sound, especially when playing with a band or recording. It’s ideal for contemporary classical, studio work, or any setting where a projected, articulate viola tone is needed.
Pros
- Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and sustain.
- Active pickup system delivers a warm, amplified viola tone.
- Integrated shoulder rest improves comfort for extended playing.
Cons
- Amber finish might not appeal to players preferring a more traditional look.
- Active electronics necessitate battery replacement, a potential maintenance item.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,583 now$4,583€4,090 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
The CR5-VN-SG is a serious instrument for the modern violinist. The carbon fiber construction gives it a unique, bright tone, and the 5th string expands your harmonic possibilities. It's a great choice for performers looking for a stage-ready, versatile violin with a modern feel, or for studio work where silent practice is a must.
Pros
- Solid carbon fiber body offers exceptional resonance and durability
- Active piezo pickup system delivers a clear, amplified tone with low noise
- Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, responsive playing experience
Cons
- The 5th string can feel a bit unwieldy for players accustomed to a standard 4-string setup
- Carbon fiber, while strong, can feel less ‘traditional’ than wood to some players
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,695 now$4,695€4,190 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
This NS Design is a really interesting hybrid – it blends the familiar feel of a fretted guitar neck with the expressive capabilities of a violin. It's perfect for violinists looking to explore electric sounds, or guitarists eager to learn the violin with a much more forgiving learning curve. The sound is surprisingly articulate, and the build quality is solid.
Pros
- Fretted ebony fingerboard drastically simplifies intonation for less experienced players.
- Polar pickup system delivers a remarkably clear and responsive amplified tone.
- Czech Republic construction ensures a high level of build quality and consistent craftsmanship.
Cons
- The 5-string configuration may feel unwieldy for traditional violinists.
- Satin black finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints and smudges.
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$3,003 now$3,003€2,680 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
This NS Design NXT5a is a seriously interesting instrument. The fretted fingerboard opens up electric violin playing to a whole new group of folks, and the sound is surprisingly articulate and responsive. It's a great choice for violinists looking to explore amplified tones or for those new to the violin who want a head start on intonation.
Pros
- Fretted ebony fingerboard allows for easier learning and intonation.
- Polar pickup system delivers a remarkably clear and balanced amplified tone.
- The dual-mode output provides flexibility for various performance scenarios.
Cons
- The 5-string configuration may be cumbersome for traditional violinists.
- Sunburst finish, while attractive, might not suit all musical aesthetics.
38AudioFu
Index↑ 3.9%since Aug 14$2,902 · Aug 14$3,014 now$3,014€2,690 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings6-string
This Fidelius HK-6 is a real conversation starter, both visually and sonically. The 6-string setup expands your harmonic possibilities, and the pickup system delivers a surprisingly warm, natural amplified tone. It's a premium-priced instrument ideal for folk, classical, and experimental musicians seeking a unique and expressive voice.
Pros
- Exotic stag beetle shape offers unique aesthetic appeal and comfortable ergonomics
- Fidelius pickup system provides surprisingly natural amplified tone, good for recording
- Ebony fingerboard and chinrest enhance playability and contribute to a refined feel
Cons
- Walnut body, while attractive, may lack the resonance of higher-grade tonewoods
- Built-in preamp adds slight weight and can introduce subtle hum with certain setups
37AudioFu
Index↓ 3.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$3,126 · Aug 14$3,014 now$3,014€2,690 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 ↗
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$1,334€1,190$1,334€1,190Check ↗
- 12
NS Design WAV4 Violin Black GlossNS Design · 5 finishes49Stable$1,176€1,049$1,176€1,049Check ↗
- 13
Gewa Novita 3.0 UA 5-Str. Violin BKGewa · 2 finishes43↓ 4.9%$1,118€998$1,118€998Check ↗
- 14
NS Design NXT4a-VA-SB Viola Satin Sunb.NS Design40Stable$2,678€2,390$2,678€2,390Check ↗
- 15
Yamaha YSV-104BR Silent ViolinYamaha · 3 finishes42↓ 7.4%$1,119€999$1,119€999Check ↗
- 16
NS Design NXT5a-VN-SB ViolinNS Design38↑ 4.4%$2,678€2,390$2,678€2,390Check ↗
- 17
NS Design NXT5a-VN-BK ViolinNS Design38↑ 4.4%$2,678€2,390$2,678€2,390Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton HBV 990BCF 4/4 Electric ViolinHarley Benton · 9 finishes66↓ 5.9%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 19
Yamaha SVV 200 BRYamaha35↓ 3.4%$2,262€2,019$2,262€2,019Check ↗
- 20
Fidelius F-Trad-5 Electric Violin 5-strFidelius35Stable$2,454€2,190$2,454€2,190Check ↗
- 21
Fidelius HK-4 Stag Beetle Violin 4-strFidelius35Stable$2,510€2,240$2,510€2,240Check ↗
- 22
NS Design NXT4a-VN-SB ViolinNS Design35Stable$2,566€2,290$2,566€2,290Check ↗
- 23
NS Design NXT4a-VN-BK ViolinNS Design35Stable$2,622€2,340$2,622€2,340Check ↗
- 24
NS Design NXT4a-VN-BK-F Fretted ViolinNS Design35Stable$2,734€2,440$2,734€2,440Check ↗
- 25
Fidelius F-Trad-6 Electric Violin 6-strFidelius35Stable$2,880€2,570$2,880€2,570Check ↗
- 26
Gewa Novita 3.0 Electric Violin BKGewa · 3 finishes43↓ 13.0%$889€793$889€793Check ↗
- 27
Gewa Novita 3.0 El. Violin RD/HGGewa · 2 finishes35Stable$1,165€1,040$1,165€1,040Check ↗
- 28
NS Design NXT4a-VN-SB-F Violin FrettedNS Design33↑ 4.1%$2,846€2,540$2,846€2,540Check ↗
- 29
Gewa Novita 3.0 UA Elec. Violin GBGewa · 3 finishes41↓ 7.3%$913€815$913€815Check ↗
- 30
Harley Benton Artist Solo Elec. Violin 4/4Harley Benton45Stable$762€680$762€680Check ↗
- 31
Fidelius F-Trad-4 Electric Violin 4-strFidelius30Stable$2,208€1,970$2,208€1,970Check ↗
- 32
sbip V4171BL Electric Violin 4/4sbip32Stable$997€890$997€890Check ↗
- 33
Roth & Junius Acoustic-Electric Violin 5-StrRoth & Junius38Stable$670€598$670€598Check ↗
- 34
Harley Benton HBV 870LH/WH Electric ViolinHarley Benton · 6 finishes50Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 35
Thomann Europe Electric Violin 4/4 WHThomann · 3 finishes38↑ 4.7%$503€449$503€449Check ↗
- 36
Roth & Junius Acoustic-Electric 5-Str Vn SetRoth & Junius26Stable$727€649$727€649Check ↗
- 37
Harley Benton Stage Four Electric Violin FBHarley Benton · 2 finishes38Stable$222€198$222€198Check ↗
- 38
Alfred Stingl by Höfner AS160 EV Electric ViolinAlfred Stingl by Höfner33↓ 12.1%$373€333$373€333Check ↗
- 39
Stentor SR1515A Electric Violin SetStentor · 2 finishes25Stable$492€439$492€439Check ↗
- 40
Harley Benton HBV 800GNB Acoustic-ElectricHarley Benton · 11 finishes65↓ 11.8%$167€149$167€149Check ↗
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 & Neck Profile
A comfortable, consistent neck profile is non-negotiable. You're likely playing complex passages, so a neck that feels awkward or has uneven action will kill your performance. We're looking for something that allows for effortless vibrato and clean shifts.
Pickup Voicing & Dynamic Response
It's not just about 'tone'; it's about how the pickup responds to your playing. Does it capture the subtle nuances of your bow strokes? Does it retain that acoustic richness or does it sound thin and brittle? A good pickup will have headroom to handle distortion without collapsing into a muddy mess.
Body Resonance & Feedback Control
Even electrics benefit from a resonant body. It adds warmth and sustain. However, feedback can be a serious issue, especially at higher volumes. Construction quality and bracing are key to minimizing unwanted oscillations and providing a stable platform for playing.
Output Options & Connectivity
Modern pros need versatility. Do you need direct to DAW recording? Stereo outputs for effects sends? A high-impedance output for tube amps? Consider your signal chain and ensure the instrument offers the connectivity you require. Phantom power compatibility is a plus.
Build Quality & Hardware
Cheap hardware (tuners, tailpieces, endpins) will fail you on stage. Consistent intonation and reliable performance are paramount. Solid construction and quality components translate to longevity - and fewer headaches when you're under pressure.
Buying guide
So, you're looking to electrify your violin or viola? It's a move a lot of pros make - for recording flexibility, stage volume, or just a different sonic palette. But slapping a pickup on a cheap instrument won't cut it. We're talking about instruments built for nuanced expression, rock-solid reliability, and the kind of tone that cuts through a mix without sounding sterile. Let's dive into what separates the weekend warrior's electric violin from the gear a pro can depend on.
Don't be fooled by flashy designs. A good electric violin or viola is an investment. Paying extra for a well-crafted instrument with a quality pickup and solid hardware is almost always worth it.
The biggest corner that gets cut is in the pickup design - a poorly voiced pickup will make even a fine acoustic violin sound lifeless. Test before you buy if possible, and be prepared to spend a few hundred dollars at minimum for something you can truly rely on.
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/violas harder to play than acoustic instruments?
Not inherently, but the lack of acoustic feedback can take some getting used to. You'll rely more on visual cues and headphone monitoring, which changes the feel.
Can I use any amplifier with an electric violin/viola?
Ideally, you want something with clean headroom and a good EQ section. A full-range PA speaker is often better than a guitar amp, as it'll reproduce the full frequency range more accurately. Avoid amps that heavily color the tone unless that's your specific aesthetic.
What's the difference between a piezoelectric pickup and a magnetic pickup for strings?
Piezo pickups are more common and generally offer a more acoustic-like tone but can be prone to a 'quack' if not properly dampened. Magnetic pickups sit under the strings and offer a warmer, more electric tone, but might require modifications to the instrument.
Do I need to use headphones when playing an electric violin/viola?
It depends on the situation. For silent practice, absolutely. For stage performance, a monitor wedge is essential to hear yourself properly and avoid feedback. Direct to FRFR (Full Range Flat Response) is also a popular choice.
Can I put a pickup on my existing acoustic violin/viola?
You can, but the results are often disappointing. The acoustic properties of the instrument - the body resonance, the bracing - are crucial to the overall tone. A cheap pickup will only highlight the instrument's shortcomings.
