I generally can hear the differences in the instrument comparisons and the string comparisons videos. I don’t know why that, since it seems it is not the norm, based on the two posts here. I listen more than once. I am not sure of exactly what I am listening to, or how. That said, I think this is what I subconsciously do.

I listen to the whole section of each instrument or string brand video and compare in my mind.

Then I am listening again and paying attention to certain areas, or tones. For instance, I pay close attention to the lower string note sections and compare to what I heard in the other video(s). Then I listen to the middle strings sections, then the higher strings. I would state the strings, but this applies to cellos, violas and violins. I am basically segmenting and listening to which instruments or strings (depending on what fhe comparison is for) sound the best for low, middle and high notes. I then listen to overall sound, volume, fullness, warm or bright, etc. I make little notes to myself about how much I liked it and why, I also make little notes to myself about what I didn’t like. I then fine tune by re-listening, paying attention to my little notes in my mind. If I am researching for an actual purchase, rather than just curiosity, I write down the notes and the areas of the videos I want to re-listen.

I am not sure how many people will listen and re-listen to really get the clear differences, likes and dislikes, but, my husband says, that I think through things different than most people, so maybe I am the odd person out on this system of comparing. 

No, the comment about not thinking about things the way most people do is not an insult. He is right. I am quite happy with the way I think things through. I discover things other people do not. 😁 Just wanted to make sure nobody was thinking that I and my husband were thinking that is a bad thing or insulting to me. It is a badge I proudly wear. 😁😁😁

I like this from @HP 

“My tip is just to go for what gives you the best feeling. If none of them do, just look further. ”

That is so true. It all depends on what you like, not what a person tells you is the best.

It does not matter, really, what people tell you to look for as far as sound goes. It has to produce the sound you like, or pretty much because I think setup and strings can tweek. If you want a warm sounding violin, the videos will show the warm and bright. Eliminate the bright, re-listen to the warmer sounding ones and go from there.

That said, if you are dealing with a reputable dealer, a dealer that really wants to sell you an instrument that will make you happy, that dialogue, along with videos, is well worth it, and is an invaluable tool in your decision. I truly believe the Fiddlershop is that invaluable tool.

Full disclosure. This is based on all correspondence, verbal and email, I have had with them about other string instrument products. I have never purchased an instrument from them because I am lucky to have a violin shop within 1 1/2 hours from where I live. The sense I have is that the entire staff has a love for the instruments and pleasing the customer. They are knowledgable, and just want to please their customers.

So, listen to the videos. Listen for the sound you want, warm or bright. Revisit the ones that have the sound you desire. Listen as often as you need. Contact Fiddlershop explaining the violins you have decided are what you like and why (pros and cons), even if not in your price range. Explain your price limit and ask for their advice. That information should help them find the violin for you that is in your price range. I would buy from them if I did not have a shop to do live trials with. You can ask to have videos made with specific violins, I think. The best video comparisons, I think, are done with the same setup and strings on all the violins and using the same bow.

The videos on the Fiddlershop site by Michael are very good, too. He has some videos on some of the violins and strings. They are helpful. 

Even if you decide not to get one from Fiddlershop, all those resource videos will help you.

Sometimes I wish I could get a Fiddlershop violin because I would love to hear and play one of their warmer sounding ones, but, I have enough violins. Maybe I can find one at the pawnshop we have fun looking through. Found a great cello there last year.

Hope all the information from this thread helps.