Playability You
should be able to move from string to string freely with an even tone
across the strings.
Tone and Sound
Are you looking for a violin with a warm upper register or do you
prefer a bright sound in the higher strings? Check for any buzzing
as you play and be sure that you are getting the projection and tone
that you desire.
Price Does it
fit your budget? Be sure the quality of the violin or outfit you’re
buying matches the price tag attached. Ask teachers you trust, as
well as fellow students, where they purchased their instruments and
how much they paid.
Craftsmanship
Is the finish sprayed or brushed? Is the top hand carved or factory
pressed? The craftsmanship of the violin contributes greatly to the
instrument’s quality and potential resale value.
Setup Do the pegs,
chin rest, bridge, and strings fit well? You should be able to play
each string clearly without brushing against other strings–if
not it could mean your bridge or fingerboard needs adjustment. Do
the pegs feel tight? Is the neck set at the correct angle? You should
be able to press each string all the way down at the part of the fingerboard
nearest the bridge. If not, your shop can adjust the strings and bridge
accordingly. Be sure to address any problems before you leave with
a new instrument.
The Package When
purchasing a complete outfit, is the quality consistent across the
board? Check the quality of the bow (look for pernambuco bows with
true horsehair, not fiberglass bows with synthetic hair). Will the
case protect your instrument? Some dealers are open to mixing and
matching outfit options. You may be able to purchase a better bow
and safer case for the same price, or a just fraction more.
The Dealer or Shop
Check with friends, fellow musicians, and your teacher about where
they like to shop for instruments and accessories. Be sure to ask
about trade-ins and trade-up policies. Some shops selling starter
fiddles will buy back instruments and direct part of that cost to
your purchase of a step-up violin.
