5 Reasons The Acoustic Violin Is The Best Instrument
Back to BlogAcoustic violin or an electric one? There are many things related to the best violin to play and which type to go for. The thing is, there is not the best one, it will always depend on what kind of music you like.
Both of them are excellent choices, and the best one will always be the one that matches your musical style; however, today, we want to bring you the main reasons we believe the acoustic violin is the best instrument ever!
The electric violin became a more popular choice in the last century than the traditional acoustic instrument. Although some musicians prefer to play electric violins, others continue to play acoustic violins that have been around for centuries.
Acoustic Violin vs. Electric Violin
The acoustic violin has a hollow structure that vibrates and amplifies the sound, while the solid body structure of the electric violin is used to amplify its sound.
The acoustic violin produces a richer, deeper sound than the electric violin because the hollow interior of its structure vibrates more intensely.
The electric violin, which has a solid body, produces a thinner sound. Neither is louder than the other; both must rely on an amplifier to be heard to their full potential.
- Acoustic violins don’t need an amplifier, although it is possible to use one.
- Those who buy acoustic violins praise them for their authentic sound. Although most electric violins are also good, experts say you can always distinguish between acoustic and electric violins. They say this is why beginners should start with the acoustic violin—to learn what the real thing sounds like and to get the right feel for it.
- When participating in a live performance of orchestral music, the bright, resonant sound of the acoustic violin will take center stage. In a traditional recital or performance, it is important for all instruments to be heard clearly. An acoustic violin is preferred over an electric violin because of its bright and beautiful sound.
- The soundbox allows the instrument to function without the help of any kind of technology. The bridge, placed on the body of the instrument and held by the pressure of the strings, facilitates the vibrations of the strings, making the violin sound.
- We love how traditional instruments bring heritage, history and inspiration. Of course, that can be found in the modern designs of an electric violin, but to us, there’s something in the acoustic, classical aesthetic of a violin that amazes us.
In the case of a solid body electric violin, the strings will vibrate. These vibrations will create an electric signal that is then sent to an amplifier, where the sound quality of the electric violin will be affected by the type of bridge and the number of sensors it possesses.
Classical violins have 4 strings: D, G, A, and E. An electric one can have more than 4, which gives the instrument a higher sound.
Although they vary based on the model, acoustic violins will have a standard size and design. And every detail that characterizes these masterpieces you can find there: f-holes, the ribs, the tailpiece, the soundboard, etc.
On the other hand, electric violins can look very daring and different. Those main things that make an acoustic violin can be removed from the electric instrument without affecting the sound. Respecting the basic violin format with elements such as the neck and the fingerboard, the electric violin can have any type of design, color, or even materials.
Each violin has its own particular characteristics, and we defend the acoustic instrument for a personal reason. However, no matter your choice, the main thing here is that you enjoy your violin as much as possible, it should be something that you love doing. Some violinists will have both, especially professional ones, to choose from depending on the situation.
Electric violins are excellent, just like any other instrument, but our point here is only to present you with both options, how each works, and why we love more the acoustic one.
The Workshop
Amorim Fine Violins is a violin, viola, and cello workshop based in Cremona. Our mission is to provide musicians with instruments so they can uniquely express themselves. We are a family business, just like the workshops of Stradivari and Guarneri. Founded in 2001 by the renowned violin maker Luiz Amorim and his wife, Betina Schreiner. We bring our fine arts experience into the violin-making field. .
