AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Electric Violins and Violas Under $800 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton HBV 990BCF 4/4 Electric Violin ($178). Harley Benton Artist Solo Elec. Violin 4/4 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 10 models across 5 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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- 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 ↗ -
- 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
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This is a solid budget-friendly electric violin for students or gigging players who need reliable output. The carbon tailpieces and active pickup give you clear sound without extra gear. It comes with everything you need to start playing right away.
Pros
- Carbon fine tuners on tailpieces for precise intonation
- Active piezo-ceramic pickup ensures strong output
- Basswood body with maple veneer keeps it light
Cons
- Strings type is not listed in the description
- No active battery power source is mentioned
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$222 now$222€198 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
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- Strings5-string
- Size4/4 size
This Roth & Junius 5-string is a solid option for players wanting to explore extended range or experiment with electric violin sounds. The build quality is commendable for the price point, and the passive pickup is surprisingly functional for practice or smaller gigs. It's a great entry point into the world of electric violins for students and hobbyists.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a surprisingly warm, resonant acoustic tone.
- European craftsmanship evident in the clean lines and precise setup.
- Passive piezo pickup offers a usable amplified sound without external power.
Cons
- Passive piezo pickup lacks the nuance of dedicated magnetic or hybrid systems.
- Maple construction, while common, can limit tonal complexity compared to other woods.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$670 now$670€598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Alfred Stingl by Höfner AS160 EV Electric Violin
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
This Alfred Stingl is a great entry point for students or players wanting to experiment with amplified violin. The spruce top provides a surprisingly pleasant acoustic tone, and the active piezo pickup makes it usable for a range of genres, though it won't replace a professional setup. It's a budget-friendly way to get into the world of electric violin without a massive investment.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a surprisingly warm, resonant tone.
- Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, responsive playing experience.
- Active piezo pickup system captures a clear, amplified signal.
Cons
- The maple back and sides can sound a bit boxy without careful EQ’ing.
- The included case feels flimsy and offers minimal protection.
33AudioFu
Index↓ 12.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$425 · Aug 14$373 now$373€333 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
- Size4/4 size
- Weight2 kg
This Roth & Junius is a solid entry point into the world of amplified 5-string violins. The spruce top gives it a pleasing acoustic voice, and the included case is a real bonus. It’s a great option for students or performers who need a reliable, amplified instrument for folk, Celtic, or studio work.
Pros
- Solid spruce top offers a surprisingly resonant acoustic tone.
- Ebony fingerboard and pegs provide smooth playability and tuning stability.
- Passive piezo pickup delivers a clean, usable amplified signal.
Cons
- Passive piezo pickups can sound a bit brittle without careful EQing.
- European craftsmanship, while generally good, might lack the meticulous detail of higher-end instruments.
26AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$727 now$727€649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
- Size4/4 size
The Stentor SR1515A is a solid entry point into electric violin playing, especially for students or those wanting a versatile instrument for practice and casual gigs. It delivers a respectable amplified sound with a warm acoustic core, and the included bow and case make it a complete package. It's a great choice for those seeking affordability without sacrificing too much in terms of build quality or essential components.
Pros
- Solid tonewood construction provides a surprisingly warm acoustic base.
- Artec piezo pickup offers decent amplified tone for practice and basic performance.
- Brazilwood bow with real horsehair is a significant upgrade over synthetic options.
Cons
- The Artec pickup, while functional, lacks the nuance of higher-end systems.
- Ebony fingerboard can feel a bit unfinished compared to more premium instruments.
25AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$492 now$492€439 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
Electric Violins and Violas by the numbers
Measured across all 37 models we track, not a sample.
Median $167 — half of all electric violins and violas here cost less.
most common · 34 models
most common · 13 models
How to choose the best electric violins and violas
Pickup Voicing
This is everything. Cheap pickups often sound brittle and lack sustain - a harsh, ice-picky top end. We looked for pickups that offered a usable, if not spectacular, response, with some warmth and a bit of low-end thump to avoid sounding thin and anemic.
Construction & Hardware
Solid wood bodies are rare in this price range, expect laminates or lower-grade tonewoods. The quality of the tuners and tailpiece matters-cheap hardware means tuning instability and a generally flimsier feel. A stable setup is vital.
Playability (Neck Profile & Action)
A comfortable neck is non-negotiable. A thick, unwieldy neck will kill your chops. Lower action is almost always preferable for electric instruments, as it requires less pressure and improves articulation.
Output Jack & Wiring
Seriously, a flaky output jack is a nightmare on stage. We looked for instruments with decent jacks and wiring, understanding that these are often the first things to fail on budget instruments.
Overall Resonance & Sustain
Even with a piezo pickup, a well-built body will resonate more, giving you more natural sustain and a fuller tone. This is often the biggest difference between a usable instrument and a frustrating one.
Buying guide
So, you want to electrify your violin or viola but your wallet's saying 'no way' to a NS Design or Yamaha? It's totally doable. You can absolutely get a usable, gig-worthy electric string instrument under $800, but you gotta know what to look for - and what you're giving up. This list isn't about dream gear; it's about the best bang-for-your-buck options for players who want to plug in without breaking the bank.
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Expect compromises in body wood, pickup quality, and overall build refinement. Don't chase 'acoustic violin tone' - that's not the point of an electric.
Focus on finding an instrument with a comfortable neck, decent pickup voicing, and reliable hardware that'll hold up to gigging. A good setup from a luthier can often unlock more potential than the instrument itself.
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 37 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 piezo pickups really that bad?
They can be. Many cheap piezo systems are harsh and lack dynamics. However, some are surprisingly usable, especially when paired with EQ. Don't expect the warmth of a magnetic pickup, though.
Can I use these instruments for recording?
Absolutely, but be prepared to spend time EQing and potentially using compression to tame harsh frequencies. DI recording is fine, but a decent preamp can make a big difference.
What's the difference between an electric violin and a viola?
It's mostly size and tuning. Violas are larger and tuned a fifth lower. The body construction and bracing will be different to accommodate the lower frequencies.
Are these instruments easy to set up?
They can be. Action adjustment is usually straightforward, but intonation might require a bit more finesse. If you're not comfortable, take it to a luthier.
Will I be able to cut through a band mix?
It's possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your EQ and volume. A little bit of overdrive or distortion can help you stand out, but be careful not to introduce unwanted noise.
