So, I did end up playing Edgar (my 5-string Viola) more, but at the end of 2023 I bought Maezarine (my 6-string Violin)... and haven't looked back!  

I remember how excited I was when I got Edgar.  There was a huge difference in sound and feel (to me) playing the new 5-string Viola vs my 1st instrument, Mortimer (5-string Violin).  I even did a video comparison (ELCBK: "Old Folks At Home" & "Daisy" - Edgar vs. Mortimer! 2022). 

So, with recent talk of Violas vs Violin, I decided to get out Edgar to play for a while yesterday... see if I might want to put Maezarine in the case for a few months.

... nope! 

Surprisingly, I actually like the tone of my Maezarine far too much more!  Had to triple check, because I couldn't believe it, but Glasser really did something right with their 6-string CF Violin - fits what I want to hear & feel, VERY comfortable to play. 

I know that some Violinists/Violists feel even a 5-string Violin isn't capable of delivering good bass sound - because it used to be just an extra string added to a regular violin.  That's changed - even before I started playing.  Enough people have taken interest in extended range Violins that luthiers have made some amazing-sounding, easy to play, and affordable instruments. 

I have not had the opportunity to try any of the wood 5-string Violins that the Fiddlershop carries, but their video demos sound wonderful!   ...I just don't think anyone can pry my blue Glasser 6-string from my hand.

Viper 5 - String & Glasser AE 6 - String Violins Demo for Isra (Fiddlershop). 

Darol Anger discusses & plays a 5 String Fiddle

Might set up my other instruments with different tunings for a while, but they might be looking for a new home.