Electric Violins

Electric violins use a piezoelectric or other pickup to capture string vibrations and send the signal to headphones, an amplifier or a sound system. Without a resonant body, they are quieter acoustically, but not silent. Before choosing, consider playability, output type and power supply; effects and appearance come afterwards.

Passive or active output

A passive piezo pickup often needs a preamplifier with a suitable input impedance to prevent a thin tone. Active electronics may offer a headphone output, volume control or EQ, but require a battery or charging. Check the connector, because a line output is not automatically a headphone output.

The feel under your hand should remain natural

The scale length, bridge curvature and neck position should allow you to use the same technique as on an acoustic violin. The frame body must provide support for your chin and shoulder. Check compatibility with your shoulder rest, because an unconventional shape may not accommodate every model.

Silent practice requires the complete signal chain

Find out whether the instrument can drive headphones directly or requires a separate preamplifier. For playing at home, you will appreciate an input for accompaniment; on stage, a stable output and the ability to mute the signal quickly are useful. Route the cable so that it does not pull on the instrument.

On stage, monitor feedback and foldback

An electric body is usually more resistant to feedback than an acoustic violin with a pickup, but a loud monitor still affects your playing. Set up effects at concert volume. Keep a spare battery and a DI box or preamplifier ready, depending on the mixer input.

Check the scale length and shoulder support, then assemble a compatible setup with headphones, preamplification or a stage output.