hi,
I am new to the violin scene and i am looking to get a violin to start off with. I want it to sound as best as possible from around 250-350$. BUt i have NO idea what to look for in a violin. I was looking at the gems 2 from what i saw on these forums. But what is the difference between Stradivariand Guarneri model??? It all looks the same to me!

Also what difference does dominant strings make? I read people suggest getting those.

Anyone who has suggestions for me are greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Chris

Hi Chris,

Get a Strad model, that`s the "default" position and unless you have a reason for wanting a Guarneri it is what i would recommend. The Guaneri model has a more masculine sound, a bit like a viola.

All trade violns are made to a price, and one way the price is kept down is by fitting cheap strings. Factory strings invariably sound vile and are simply best replaced. We replace all ours routinely except on the very cheapest instruments.

Liz

Liz

Dominant strings are a good all round string & a good place to start on a new violin.

There are three types of string, gut, synthetic, and all steel. Gut strings are expensive, break easily, and rarely used, unless one is looking for an old baroque sound. Steel are favoured for a bright sound by some folk fiddlers. Synthetic have more warmth than steel without the cost of gut.

Experienced players may find a string they prefer for a particular sound on a particular instrument, but I`m years from having that depth of knowledge, so I`m sticking with Dominants or Helicore to try steel strings for a change.

Dominant strings are a good all round string & a good place to start on a new violin.

There are three types of string, gut, synthetic, and all steel. Gut strings are expensive, break easily, and rarely used, unless one is looking for an old baroque sound. Steel are favoured for a bright sound by some folk fiddlers. Synthetic have more warmth than steel without the cost of gut.

Experienced players may find a string they prefer for a particular sound on a particular instrument, but I`m years from having that depth of knowledge, so I`m sticking with Dominants or Helicore to try steel strings for a change.