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Hi ! I'm looking into learning to play the violin and I wanted opinions on what I should start on.
I was thinking electric violin, the main appeal to me would be to be able to play with my roommate being there without him wanting to murder me over my horrendous play x). But maybe I'm mistaken, as the strings do produce sound even without the violin being plugged in ?
So first question, how loud is an electric violin compare to an acoustic one ?
And second question, is one harder to learn than the other ? Is it better to learn with an acoustic violin to get the "real" feeling ?
More generally, any insight as to how one choice or the other would impact my learning experience ?
Thank you !
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Hi, @LilianC First, welcome to the forum. I just sent you a Welcome Email with information about the forum. If you don't see it in your inbox, please check your spam or junk folder. There is important information in the email, and some general forum information.
First, I am still learning but a few thoughts about your questions.
You want to hear your instrument, You need to hear what you are playing, right? So an entirely silent violin will not help. I have a used Yamaha. It is very quiet, but I can hear it. I love how it plays. For me, it is easier to play than my acoustic violins, but my situation does not require a lot of quiet times, so I mostly play my acoustic. I do not plug it into an amp.
I am not an expert, but from what I have read on the forum, different electric violins have different sound levels. Something about amps built in or something? So, someone else here might be able to help a little more. If they are too technical, don't be afraid to ask for clarification. They are very knowledgeable here and very helpful, and willing to help.
Whether it is harder for you to learn on an electric or acoustic is a matter of the person playing it or learning it. Some has to do with the set up of the violin and how well it suits you, chinrest, shoulder rest, strings, etc, Again, more knowledgeable members may be able to offer more, but for the most part, it is different for different people. Like I said, I find my Yamaha much easier to play.
I know, not very helpful, but I wanted to let you know your post was viewed! I am posting a link to your post in the chat roll directing members here to help you.
Again, welcome to the forum, and please check on the Welcome Email. While you are waiting for assistance, why not introduce yourself in the New Members/Introduce Yourself section?
Mouse
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Learn Violin and Fiddle
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@LilianC I have no experience with the electric violins, but as a broad recommendation, if you are wanting an electric, I would get one that is an acoustic/electric model.
As a beginner, you’d want to have an instrument that is shaped accurately (as well as having proper dimensions)—many things to learn about holding it, your hand position, etc., and if you use something with an alternative shape, it may hinder learning proper form, and become frustrating as you try to learn.
As a beginner, you’re going to sound bad--that is just the way it is. And even as you progress, all the noise you make during practice is not going to be. . . refined. Practice, Playing, Performing—all slightly different things.
If volume is a concern while practicing, you can always use a mute. But even then, you need to hear yourself practice to learn proper intonation.
BTW, welcome to the Forum 
Characterize people by their actions and you will never be fooled by their words.
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Welcome to the forum,
For what it's worth I would go for a traditional acoustic violin and get the electric later, just my opinion though. Ultimately up to you, I think if you get a teacher they would advise you to get an acoustic, or maybe not.
By the way even though it's painful, record yourself playing regularly because you will find that under your ear is different to how it actually sounds, its always a shock, but a necessary evil.
Cant beat a sunny day
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@LilianC -
Welcome to the forum!
I think what you start with depends on where you want to end up, why you want to learn to play & what kind of music you want to play.
IMHO, learning to play this instrument is not easy - a lot of motivation & feedback comes from what you hear. Electric violin sounds different than an acoustic violin of decent quality - there's no difference between them when learning to use a bow & placing your fingers for notes.
You can play quietly using an electric violin, but if you aren't interested in exploring the other features it is capable of (at least at a later time), then just use a heavy mute on an acoustic violin.
If you do a YouTube search for "electric violin vs acoustic violin" - there are quite a few examples of how their sound compares & how loud.
The experience of learning a musical instrument is really about what YOU hear - not someone else (every violin sounds different).
Any local music store/luthier where you can ask someone to demo both kinds of violin?
- Emily
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LilianC,
Welcome to the forum, and Good luck on your violin journey.
Possibly an acoustic to start on, with an electric violin you'll need a Amp and cabling to get started.
Give Fiddlershop a call and talk to them about it, a lot depends on your budget.
Mark
Master the Frog and you have mastered the bow.
Albert Sammons
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