AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Electric Violins and Violas Under $2,000 2026
The top pick is Yamaha YEV-104 Electric Violin ($1,624). Harley Benton HBV 800SNB Acoustic-Electric gives you the most for the money at $167. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 20 models across 9 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.
-
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 ↗ -
- 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 14 · lowest so far$189 · Aug 14$178 now$178€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- BodyMaple body
- Size4/4 size
The HBV 800SNB is a remarkable value, especially for students or players needing a basic amplified violin. The solid wood construction and ebony appointments elevate it beyond the usual beginner instruments, and the included accessories make it ready to play straight out of the box. It's a solid choice for practice, casual performance, or someone just starting their violin journey.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers surprisingly warm acoustic tone
- Ebony fretboard and pegs contribute to smooth playability
- Passive piezo pickup offers usable amplified sound for practice
Cons
- Passive piezo pickup lacks the nuance of dedicated mic systems
- Solid maple body can feel a bit dense and resonant
65AudioFu
Index↓ 11.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$189 · Aug 14$167 now$167€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- BodyPaulownia body
- Size4/4 size
This Harley Benton is a fantastic entry point into the world of electric violins. It’s ideal for beginners, students, or anyone wanting to experiment with amplified violin sounds on a budget. While the components are basic, the overall package is surprisingly well-rounded and fun to play.
Pros
- Paulownia body offers surprisingly resonant and warm acoustic tone.
- Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, familiar playing experience for traditional violinists.
- Composite tailpiece with tuners allows for precise and stable tuning.
Cons
- Paulownia body, while resonant, lacks the projection of higher-grade woods.
- The built-in mic input is likely noisy and of limited use for serious recording.
58AudioFu
Index↓ 6.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$167 · Aug 14$156 now$156€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings4-string
The NS Design WAV4 is a solid choice for players wanting a reliable, amplified violin. It's fantastic for gigging, recording, or anyone wanting to explore electric violin sounds without a ton of complexity. The build quality is good, and the included accessories make it quite accessible.
Pros
- Solid body construction minimizes feedback, crucial for amplified performance
- Polar piezo pickup delivers a surprisingly warm, natural acoustic tone
- Ebony fingerboard offers excellent clarity and response for precise playing
Cons
- Solid-body design lacks the resonant feel of a traditional acoustic violin
- Passive pickup system limits tonal shaping options compared to active electronics
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$1,176 now$1,176€1,049 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
The NS Design WAV5 is a fantastic option for gigging violinists and those wanting a versatile electric setup. Its solid body design and passive pickup system offer a surprisingly natural sound, and the 5th string adds a unique dimension for exploring different tunings and textures. It's well-suited for contemporary, folk, and even amplified classical playing.
Pros
- Solid body construction minimizes feedback, a real boon for stage work
- Passive piezo pickup delivers a surprisingly natural, warm acoustic tone
- Ebony fingerboard provides excellent response and a smooth playing experience
Cons
- The solid-body design lacks the resonance of a traditional acoustic violin
- Passive system limits tonal shaping compared to active electronics
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$1,334 now$1,334€1,190 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
-
The Gewa Novita 3.0 is a solid entry-level electric violin, offering a familiar traditional feel with amplified capabilities. It's a good choice for students, beginners, or players looking for an affordable, versatile instrument for practice, teaching, or small performance settings. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price, and it's a great way to dip your toes into the world of electric violin.
Pros
- Solid maple neck provides excellent sustain and comfortable playing feel.
- Aubert bridge contributes to a surprisingly warm and responsive acoustic tone.
- Wittner hardware ensures reliable tuning stability and smooth adjustments.
Cons
- Piezo pickup system lacks the nuance and dynamic range of more advanced systems.
- At approximately 550g, it can feel a bit heavy for extended playing sessions.
43AudioFu
Index↓ 13.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$1,021 · Aug 14$889 now$889€793 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
The Novita 3.0 UA is a surprisingly capable entry into the electric violin world. It's a solid choice for students or hobbyists wanting to experiment with amplification without a huge investment, and the 5th string opens up some interesting possibilities for exploring extended range melodies. The build quality is decent for the price, and it’s comfortable to play.
Pros
- Solid maple neck offers excellent playability and sustain
- Gewa pickup provides a usable, clean amplified tone
- Universal shoulder rest adapter adds versatility for player comfort
Cons
- The piezo pickup system lacks the nuance of dedicated magnetic pickups
- At approximately 650g, it can feel slightly heavy for extended playing
43AudioFu
Index↓ 4.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$1,176 · Aug 14$1,118 now$1,118€998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 20 electric violins and violas
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Yamaha YSV-104BR Silent ViolinYamaha · 3 finishes42↓ 7.4%$1,119€999$1,119€999Check ↗
- 12
Gewa Novita 3.0 UA Elec. Violin GBGewa · 3 finishes41↓ 7.3%$913€815$913€815Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton Stage Four Electric Violin FMHarley Benton · 2 finishes38Stable$222€198$222€198Check ↗
- 14
Thomann Europe Electric Violin 4/4 WHThomann · 3 finishes38↑ 4.7%$503€449$503€449Check ↗
- 15
Roth & Junius Acoustic-Electric Violin 5-StrRoth & Junius38Stable$670€598$670€598Check ↗
- 16
Gewa Novita 3.0 El. Violin BK/HGGewa · 2 finishes35Stable$1,165€1,040$1,165€1,040Check ↗
- 17
Alfred Stingl by Höfner AS160 EV Electric ViolinAlfred Stingl by Höfner33↓ 12.1%$373€333$373€333Check ↗
- 18
sbip V4171BL Electric Violin 4/4sbip32Stable$997€890$997€890Check ↗
- 19
Roth & Junius Acoustic-Electric 5-Str Vn SetRoth & Junius26Stable$727€649$727€649Check ↗
- 20
Stentor SR1515A Electric Violin SetStentor · 2 finishes25Stable$492€439$492€439Check ↗
Electric Violins and Violas by the numbers
Measured across all 71 models we track, not a sample.
Median $727 — half of all electric violins and violas here cost less.
most common · 35 models
most common · 14 models
median of 17 models · 4-string–5-string
How to choose the best electric violins and violas
Pickup Voicing
This is everything. Cheap pickups often sound brittle and ice-picky, lacking warmth and sustain. We're looking for pickups that offer a usable frequency range, something with a bit of 'fat midrange honk' without being muddy, and that can handle some gain without completely falling apart.
Construction & Materials
Under $2000, you're generally looking at laminate bodies and composite necks. That's fine, but the quality of those materials matters. Solid wood tops, even on a laminate body, will improve resonance and sustain. A well-finished neck is critical for comfortable playability.
Electronics & Controls
Simple is often better. Basic volume and tone controls are fine; don't expect a ton of fancy onboard effects. We're more concerned with clean signal path and reliable pots that don't crackle or fade out.
Action & Setup
A poorly set-up instrument is unplayable, regardless of price. Check the action - it should be comfortable without excessive buzzing. A proper setup from a luthier is almost always worth the investment.
Output Jack & Cabling
It's a small thing, but a cheap, flimsy output jack is a constant frustration. A robust jack and decent shielded cable can save you headaches on stage. Cheap jacks fail, plain and simple.
Buying guide
So, you want to electrify your violin or viola? That's a cool move, opening up a whole world of possibilities - looping, effects, recording, gigging with a band. But let's be real, a lot of electric string instruments out there are overpriced hype. We're focusing on instruments under $2000 that actually deliver usable tone and playability, not just a flashy finish.
At this price point, you're trading off something. Don't expect a boutique, handcrafted instrument. Most will have laminate bodies - it's a cost-saving measure.
Focus on the pickup voicing and neck profile; those are the biggest factors in playability and tone. And seriously, factor in the cost of a professional setup - it'll make a world of difference.
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 71 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 harder to play than acoustic?
Not inherently. The action is often lower, which can make it easier, but the lack of acoustic feedback can feel strange at first. It takes a little getting used to.
Can I use any amplifier with an electric violin/viola?
Technically, yes. But a full-range amplifier with a clean headroom is best. Bass amps can work, but you'll likely lose a lot of the high-end articulation. Avoid heavily distorted amps unless that's the specific sound you're after.
What's the difference between a piezo pickup and a magnetic pickup?
Piezo pickups are contact mics, often found on cheaper instruments. They're sensitive but can sound brittle. Magnetic pickups are more like electric guitar pickups and generally offer a warmer, more natural tone, but can struggle with lower frequencies.
I'm a beginner. Is an electric violin/viola a good choice?
It can be! The ability to practice silently with headphones is a huge benefit. However, it's still important to learn proper technique on an acoustic instrument first.
What about onboard effects? Are they worth it?
Generally, no. Onboard effects in this price range are usually low-quality and limit your options. It's better to use a separate effects pedalboard - it'll give you more control and better sound.
