When I finally decided to start learning I just got the first and cheapest violin I could find.. which was from ebay for about £30 (including bow and case).. it says Bentley inside, but I have no idea about brands, and judging from the price it's prob not a great make, but I love it.

My teacher says it's alright for a beginner (although she did make me change the strings), and I figure that I should buy a better one when I have more of an appreciation for the sounds. I don't think it should matter that much if your violin doesn't sound brilliant to begin with, just as long as you can get the basics down.

Good luck anyway

If you are buying from the internet make sure the shop will let you have a bit of time to try it out before buying it. I would not trust them unless they let you try it out. Be prepared to spend about 200 dollars for your first violin. A 100 dollar violin might sound good depending on the maker, or factory for that price, but you don't have a great chance of finding a real great one. If your really serious about it, I would go a little higher if you can afford it.