It’s impossible to create a list of the best electric violins because there are so many different factors that determine the quality of an instrument. That being said, here are some helpful hints to narrowing down your search for an amp.
The electric violin is quickly becoming a popular instrument. The sound of the violin can be heard in many songs, films, and symphonies. One thing that many electric violinists are curious about is what kind of amp they should play through.
Here are our top 3 picks for amps for electric violins in 2024.
This article will look at some of the main factors to consider when buying an electric violin amp. It will provide a brief overview of the most popular brands out there and a list of which amps would best suit different playing styles.
Greetings and welcome to the first (and only) publication dedicated to electric violin amps! With more and more manufacturers coming out with new models, we want to help you make the right choice for your needs.
Table of Contents
Buying Guide
If you’re just starting to learn how to play the violin, it may seem overwhelming to figure out which amp is best. This blog will help guide you through the process of choosing an amplifier for electric violins, with detailed reviews of the most popular models. I’ll also go over what factors you should take into account when purchasing your first violin and electric setup so that you don’t make any unnecessary mistakes.
1. Budget
A budget is the first thing you should consider when looking for an amp. If you are a beginner, it’s best to start off with something affordable until you get the feel of playing an electric violin. The amps in my list range in price from $80 to $200 with some high-end models topping out at over $1000.
2. Style of music
One important factor when picking an amp is if you are planning on performing in a band or if you only intend on playing solo songs. If you have a band, you may want to invest in a model with a mic so that it can be used as a PA for your band. On the other hand, if you’re just picking up the violin as a hobby and only plan on playing solo music, it’s not necessary to get an amp with a mic. In this case, it may be best to just go for the cheapest budget amp that fits your budget instead of compromising quality for money.
3. Instrument
Another factor in choosing a violin amp is whether you will be playing a solid-body electric violin with a piezoelectric pickup or a traditional acoustic violin. Because of the setup of these instruments, they have different features and will perform differently when used with the same amp. For example, with an acoustic violin, you can plug it into an amplifier directly via its 1/4″ jack without using any additional accessories such as a preamp (which we’ll get more into later).
5 Best Amps For Electric Violins Reviewed
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Fishman PRO-LBT-600 Loudbox Artist Bluetooth 120W Acoustic Guitar Amplifier
The Fishman PRO-LBT-600 Loudbox Artist Bluetooth 120W Acoustic Guitar Amplifier is made for musicians on the go. It features built-in Bluetooth that provides an easy connection to your musical device. It has a variable parametric equalizer and comes with a guitar cable out. If you are looking for new acoustic guitar amplifiers, you should definitely check out this product.
Pros :
- Genuine soft and deep tube amp sound
- 120W of power for maximum volume and punch in any situation
- 9-band EQ with inbuilt tone controls
Cons :
- The Fishman PRO-LBT-600 Loudbox Artist Bluetooth 120W Acoustic Guitar Amplifier (£99) is a compact, lightweight amplifier that is very affordable.
- This amp has received mixed reviews; most people were not very satisfied with it
2. Wood Violins Electric Violin Amplifier
- This dedicated electric violin amplifier, customized and developed by Mark Wood, is perfect for practice or performance.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This type of electric violin amplifier is designed in such a way that it does not amplify the sound or feedback. It is made with wood and insulated so it does not produce any noise and keeps the external vibration to a minimum. This device is handcrafted in wood and divided in two sections: front and back.
Pros :
- The violin is louder than ever
- A natural, authentic sound
- Enhanced projection and tonal range
- The pros can now be heard all across the hall even when they are on stage
Cons :
- Electric violin amplifiers are quite bulky, taking up a lot of space.
- Amps need to be plugged in to work.
- There are often some jitters in the sound when amplified through an amp.
3. Yamaha THR30II Wireless Desktop Amp
- Realistic tube-amp tones and feel plus essential effects
- 15 Guitar amps, 3 bass amps, 3 mic models for acoustic-electrics, and flat modes for everything else
- Bluetooth support for audio playback, editing via THR Remote, and more
- Built-in wireless receiver compatible with optional Line 6 Relay G10T transmitter
- Built-in rechargeable battery lets you play anywhere
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Yamaha THR30II Wireless Desktop Amp is designed for producing rich, surround sound wirelessly. It provides an affordable fix to the problem of not being able to use your home theater speakers wirelessly. You can stream music up to 30 meters away with this amp, and it’ll provide plenty of power for your puny “home theater” systems.
Pros :
- Long-range coverage
- Convenient power source
- Solid audio quality for the pricepoint
Cons :
- No aux input
- Tiny speaker
- Sounds tinny and flat
4. Fishman Loudbox Mini 60W Acoustic Instrument Amplifier
- Fishman’s lightest and most portable amp yet
- The Loudbox Mini packs 60 watts of clean acoustic power
- Two channels featuring Fishman’s legendary preamp and tone control designs
- Digital reverb and chorus for the instrument channel & reverb for the microphone channel
- The Loudbox Mini sports an AUX input and balanced XLR D.I. output
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Fishman Loudbox Mini 60W Acoustic Instrument Amplifier has been manufactured by Fishman in order to deliver a compact and portable package. This amplifier is designed to provide an even, natural tone that is consistent throughout the entire frequency range.
Pros :
- The Fishman Loudbox Mini 60W Acoustic Instrument Amplifier is designed for acoustic guitars and other instruments like ukuleles, banjos, mandolins, etc.
- Offers volume control and an A/B headphone jack
- Quick to power up with a USB port
Cons :
- This amp is not really loud enough for more than one person at a time.
- The amplifier has an impedance of 8 ohms, which lead to it not being able to produce or play very low frequencies.
- It does have some distortion when turned up too high on the volume dial.
Conclusion
Electric violins and their amplifiers are the ultimate way to enjoy the violin sound while playing in a band, orchestra, or even while recording. From our data and interviews, we found that most bands use electric violins to replace acoustic violins due to the amplifier’s ability to project sound across an audience or into a studio.