AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Electric Violins and Violas Under $2,000 2026
The top pick is Yamaha YEV-104 Electric Violin ($949). Harley Benton HBV 800SBB Acoustic-Electric gives you the most for the money at $155. NS Design WAV5 Violin Amberburst Gloss leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 20 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Top 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 NT Electric Violin · Yamaha
10 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
The YEV-104 NT is a solid entry point into the world of electric violins. It's surprisingly versatile, handling everything from classical to folk with a clear, defined sound – perfect for students, gigging musicians, or anyone wanting to explore amplified violin without a premium-priced investment.
Pros
- Spruce/mahogany body offers a surprisingly warm, resonant tone.
- Zyex strings provide excellent projection and a bright, clear articulation.
- Walnut frame adds rigidity and a touch of visual elegance.
Cons
- The piezo pickup, while decent, lacks the nuance of dedicated magnetic systems.
- Limited tonal shaping options compared to higher-end electric violins.
70AudioFu
Index↓ 0.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$955 · Aug 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
This Harley Benton is a surprisingly capable entry point into amplified violin playing. The solid wood construction gives it a decent acoustic voice, and the included accessories make it an exceptionally complete package for beginners or those wanting an affordable, portable option for practice and casual performance.
Pros
- Solid spruce top provides surprising warmth and projection.
- Ebony fretboard and pegs offer smooth playability and tuning stability.
- Passive piezo pickup delivers usable amplified tone, surprisingly clear.
Cons
- Piezo pickup's tone can be brittle and lacks nuance compared to magnetic systems.
- Solid maple body, while resonant, can feel somewhat dense and weighty.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$155 now$155€139 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.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$155 now$155€139 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 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 17Aug 17$1,172 now$1,172€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 17Aug 17$1,329 now$1,329€1,190 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- BodySpruce body
The YSV-104RD is a fantastic option for students, practice-focused musicians, or anyone needing discreet violin practice. The red finish is striking, and the Studio Response Technology really tries to mimic the feel of an acoustic, making it a surprisingly enjoyable instrument despite its electronic nature. It's a solid, reliable choice for quiet playing.
Pros
- Spruce body provides a surprisingly resonant acoustic tone for a silent violin
- Zyex strings offer a bright, focused sound with good projection
- Studio Response Technology delivers a natural, responsive playing feel
Cons
- Composite fretboard lacks the warmth and feel of traditional ebony or rosewood
- Plastic frame, while durable, feels less premium than wood alternatives
47AudioFu
Index↓ 6.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,205 · Aug 17$1,127 now$1,127€1,009 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size4/4 size
This Thomann electric violin is a solid entry point for students or players wanting to experiment with amplified violin sounds. The spruce top gives it a decent acoustic voice, and the Dominant strings are a reliable choice. It’s a budget-friendly option for gigs or practice where you want a little extra projection without a huge investment.
Pros
- Solid spruce top provides a bright, resonant acoustic foundation
- Maple back and sides offer warmth and projection
- Thomastik Dominant strings deliver a smooth, responsive playing experience
Cons
- White finish may be prone to showing scratches and wear
- Piezo pickup system can sound somewhat 'quacky' without careful EQ
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$502 now$502€449 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
Gewa Novita 3.0 UA 5-Str. Violin BKGewa · 2 finishes40Stable$1,115€998$1,115€998Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton Stage Four Electric Violin FMHarley Benton · 2 finishes38Stable$221€198$221€198Check ↗
- 13
Roth & Junius Acoustic-Electric Violin 5-StrRoth & Junius38Stable$668€598$668€598Check ↗
- 14
Gewa Novita 3.0 Electric Violin BKGewa · 3 finishes38Stable$886€793$886€793Check ↗
- 15
Gewa Novita 3.0 UA Elec. Violin RBGewa · 3 finishes38Stable$911€815$911€815Check ↗
- 16
Gewa Novita 3.0 El. Violin BK/HGGewa · 2 finishes35Stable$1,162€1,040$1,162€1,040Check ↗
- 17
sbip V4171BL Electric Violin 4/4sbip32Stable$991€890$991€890Check ↗
- 18
Alfred Stingl by Höfner AS160 EV Electric ViolinAlfred Stingl by Höfner27Stable$372€333$372€333Check ↗
- 19
Roth & Junius Acoustic-Electric 5-Str Vn SetRoth & Junius26Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 20
Stentor SR1515DPA Electric Violin SetStentor · 2 finishes25Stable$468€419$468€419Check ↗
Electric Violins and Violas by the numbers
Measured across all 71 models we track, not a sample.
Median $668 — half of all electric violins and violas here cost less.
most common · 14 models
most common · 35 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.
