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How to choose a violin under 100,000 yen and recommended models

Feb 20, 2025

For those who want to start playing the violin, choosing the first violin is very important. In particular, violins in the price range of 100,000 yen or less are available from many manufacturers, each with its own unique characteristics. In this article, we will introduce the key points for selecting a violin for beginners, as well as recommended models from major manufacturers.

Points to consider when selecting a violin

1. check the contents of the set

Most beginner violins come in a set that includes a bow, case, and pine needles. Check the contents of the set to see if you can start playing right away.

2. choose the size

In addition to full-size violins (4/4), there are also fractional violins (3/4, 1/2, etc.) for smaller players and children. It is important to choose the size that is right for you.

3. materials and finishes

There are two types of beginner violins: plywood (laminated) and veneer (machined). Veneers have a better sound and are recommended for growth, but choose according to your budget.

4. whether the violin is tuned or not

Low-priced violins may not be fully tuned. If possible, choose a violin that is clearly marked "tuned" or "set up in a workshop" for peace of mind.

Recommended entry-level violins (under 100,000 yen)

Yamaha V3 series

Price range: approx. 60,000-90,000 yen

Yamaha is a highly reliable manufacturer of musical instruments, and its beginner violins are of consistent quality. the V3 series is designed for beginners, and is easy to handle and has a stable sound.

<Recommended points
The violin has been well tuned at the factory.
Sold as a set, ready to play.
The string height has been adjusted appropriately, making it easy for beginners to play.

Suzuki No.220

Price range: Approx. 70,000-100,000 yen

Suzuki is a long-established Japanese violin maker that produces many instruments, especially for beginners. 220 is a model with good cost performance and relatively good sound.

<Recommended points
Stable quality made in Japan.
Handcrafted finish gives it a well-balanced sound.
Good sound balance due to handcrafted finish.

Carlo Giordano VS-1

Price range: Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 yen

Carlo Giordano is a manufacturer offering cost-effective violins, and the VS-1 is a model for beginners, with a reasonable price and solid basic performance.

<Recommended points
Reasonably priced and easy to try.
Comes with a full set of accessories.
Relatively lightweight and easy to handle

Scott Cao STV017

Price range: approx. 80,000-100,000 yen

Scott Cao is a manufacturer of professional high-end violins, but also offers models for beginners. STV017 is a model that sounds great for the price and is a joy to play.

<Recommended points
High quality with handcrafted finish
Characterized by a soft tone
Able to create authentic sounds despite being designed for beginners

5. Höfner AS-060

Price range: approx. 50,000-90,000 yen

This is an entry-level model from Höfner, a long-established German manufacturer. It has a classic sound and the solid construction that can only be achieved with German-made instruments.

<Recommended points
Highly durable and long-lasting
Relatively lightweight and easy to hold.
Well-balanced sound

Violin is a difficult instrument to teach yourself.

The violin is a difficult instrument to master in terms of pitch and bowing technique, and it is very difficult to learn the correct form and sound on one's own. It is important for beginners to receive proper instruction in order to improve efficiently.

Recommendations for Learning the Violin

◆ If you want to start violin in Tokai area, Club Nage Music School is recommended.

Club N Large Music School offers a free instrument gift program for beginning violin students. This allows students to take authentic lessons while reducing the burden of purchasing an instrument.

Lesson Grid for online lessons anywhere in Japan

For those who live outside of the Tokai area, we recommend **Lesson Grid** for online lessons that can be taken anywhere in Japan. This is ideal for those who live in rural areas or are busy, as they can receive professional instruction from the comfort of their own home as long as they have an Internet connection.

summary

Even violins under 100,000 yen have different characteristics depending on the manufacturer. The Yamaha V3 series and Suzuki No. 220 are good choices if quality is important, and the Carlo Giordano VS-1 if you want to keep costs down. For a slightly more serious sound, consider the Scott Kao STV017 or the Hofner AS-060.

Since the violin is a difficult instrument to learn on your own, we recommend that you take lessons. If you are in the Tokai area, take a lesson at Club Naj Music School, or if you want to learn anywhere in Japan, use the Lesson Grid to make sure you learn well.

Find the violin that is right for you and start an enjoyable musical life!

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