I've built several electric violins (5 string) and one very nice acoustic (which I didn't like that much but only because of all the critical dimensions and craftsmanship skills required to be exercised in the construction of it which took a lot of time.

I have a lot of links to parts and supplies and if you ask I'll share what limited info and skills I have.

I get the modules and pickups from e-bay exclusively. I have a seller that I deal with all the time and they ship quick and I've never got a bad part. Usually get a better deal if you buy more than one and before you just pay the asking price, tell them what you would like to pay, make an offer usually about 20-30% less and see what they say. I've been able to save a few bucks that way.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/151175.....EBIDX%3AIT

The link is for a violin but yes you are correct. Violin, Ukelele, viola, cello,,, pretty much all string instruments, even cigar box guitars.

Fingerboards are all over e-bay at very cheap prices. Various woods, various quantities, and some sellers in the US

Actually I found the electric (also run thru effects boxes of various models) to be easier to play than an acoustic, which I learned on for 3+ yrs. I found the ability to achieve perfect if not just acceptable intonation is far easier because the effects tend to 'cover up' tiny imperfections in your playing. Developing muscle memory for wrong intonation doesn't do you any favors and if you develop good if not great intonation with an acoustic violin, then you'll be sounding like a master on the electric.

The easiest to play on is a fretted violin. I make them so I know. After playing on the acoustic and learning the basics and developing a good foundation of technique you will be able to expand your abilities on an electric to wondrous levels. but...

if you don't master the fretless acoustic violin first, you will be far behind when it comes to truly being able to say "I play the violin". Your intonation will suffer and the first time you are placed on the 'hot seat' so to speak and someone hands you an acoustic to show them your mastering abilities, you'll end up sounding like a first year student who needs a LOT of practice! Ha. very embarrassing.

I prefer to make and build as I too am an engineer, craftsman, designer and love doing with my hands. Now that I've mastered building both acoustic and electric cigar box guitars, both electric and acoustic violins, and electric cellos... I have a new found admiration for anyone who can play a string instrument! My practice sessions are now measured in hours instead of minutes. Gotta love the passion for playing...balanced with the ability for making.