Introduction
Getting a new violin can be both a frightening and exciting experience. Most students dread winding up with an instrument that is unplayable, or an instrument that will hold them back as they progress to more advanced grades. It is therefore necessary to properly research an instrument before making a purchase. Oftentimes, when deciding to invest in a first instrument, the buyer is so overwhelmed with choices that he or she inadvertently makes the wrong choice. In line with our philosophy of making it easier for our customers to make purchasing decisions, we offer comprehensive reviews of our instruments.
Today, we will be reviewing a violin from the One series, from the Classique Primo brand of string instruments. This outfit comes with a medium/golden brown instrument made with medium-light flamed maple sides, neck and back with a solid spruce top, fitted with ebony accessories (fingerboard, chinrest, pegs and tailpiece) and comes pre-stringed with Thomastik Vision strings. Let us take a closer look at the instrument.
Instrument Setup
One of the worst things that can happen when buying a violin is realizing that your instrument had been improperly set up. We were pleased to say that this instruments was very well set up, with the strings running nearly parallel to the fingerboard. The bridge has been hand-graduated to achieve the proper curvature of the strings against the bridge and fingerboard. The bridge’s contact points have also been sanded to match the curvature of the instrument’s spruce top. A properly set up instrument is an important factor to consider if you want an instrument that is both playable and easy to handle.
Sound Projection and Characteristics
The sound of the instrument can be described as somewhat bright, thanks the Thomastik Vision strings that come with the instrument. The sound projection is above average, making this instrument suitable as a student violin suitable for use in junior and intermediate-level orchestras.
Instrument Case
The case that comes with the instrument is an oblong-type foam case with a side accessory pocket and room for two bows, as well as inside compartments for storing a shoulder rest, rosin and even a tuner or metronome. Also included is a blanket for covering the instrument and a carrying strap for the case.
The Outfit in a Nutshell…
To sum it up, this outfit comes with the following items:
- Violin
- A high quality octagonal/round bow.
- Rosin
- Oblong case with carrying strap and blanket.
- Optional extra set of strings (Thomastik Dominant/Vision)
Our Verdict
In conclusion, this instrument is very suitable for students of the instrument who wish to take their playing to the next level. Priced at RM 895.00 (approximately US$ 270.00), this violin outfit is hard to beat when it comes to value for money as there are similar instruments that cost as few hundred ringgit more. Furthermore, the instrument set-up is also deserving of praise as the violin is comfortable to hold and play. The sound projection is above average, so getting yourself heard when playing the instrument is not going to be a problem.
Pros:
- Pleasing sound
- Superior setup.
- Value for money.
Cons:
- Somewhat lacking in projection.
Breakdown of score:
| Sound projection |
7/10 |
| Instrument setup |
9/10 |
| Responsiveness |
8/10 |
| Design and presentation |
8/10 |
| Value for money |
9/10 |
| Final Score: 82/100 (Recommended) |
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