What is the difference between using a pick-up and pre-amp combination, and playing an electric violin?

Pick-up and/or pre-amp combination is a good place to start if you are getting into electrified violin for the first time - you can use your regular violin, but can get familiar with the new technology. It can also be an aesthetic choice if you want the natural acoustic instrument, and sound, but just need a volume boost, or improved tone. The downside is greater feedback than with an electric, acoustics are more fragile, and some pick-ups will amplify all sounds associated with the instrument, including any knocks or movements you make while playing.

Electric violin the streamlined body style of electric violins sometimes takes acoustic players by surprise, but there are some very stylish instruments available in Shar's catalog. Electric violins are generally more durable, and often come in 4 and 5 string combinations! The built-in tone equalization, feedback reduction, and stronger signal make these purpose-built live performance machines - just plug them in, adjust the tone and volume to your preferences, and start fiddling!

What kind of amp should I use?

It is a good idea to try a few different amps in a practice and performance setting, and see which provides the best combination of tone and volume for your needs. Naturalistic acoustic sound If you want optimal tone quality at a moderate volume, an acoustic amp with a "tweeter" is your best bet. Shar carries the Ventura, and we are also hoping to expand into other ranges soon.

Rock or high volume The Zeta amp is made especially for playing at high volume, and is adapted to the specific frequencies of the violin. Some bass amps also have a broad frequency range, but here it is good to either get an amp with reverb, or a pedal or preamp to sweeten the sound.

Or, for a real treat, check out a vintage guitar tube amp!

What is the "5th string" on a five-string violin, and what is it used for?

The fifth string is a viola C string, which allows for a greater range of expression, and repertoire. The deeper string is also mellower at high volume, providing a nice contrast with the treble A and E violin strings.

What is the difference between solid body and hollow body?

Hollow body instruments are closer to an acoustic design and provide a resonance chamber, enhancing the sonority of the instrument. Even though they are hollow, electric instruments are still very sturdy, but may require a little more care than a solid body model.
Solid Body model Solid body string instruments are usually cut out of a single piece of wood, and are the ultimate in performance durability. Companies such as Zeta and Yamaha use specialized pick-up and preamp technology and to recreate the desired tonal and volume qualities in. These instruments, and often have a more "electric" sound than their hollow body counterparts.

What kind of music can I play on Electric Instruments?

You can play the same repertoire as on an acoustic, but the electric instruments have different tonal qualities than an acoustic, and often extend the possibilities for musicians looking for a new challenge. Electric string instruments are played in Rock, Bluegrass, Celtic, Klezmer, Jazz, Blues, New Age, the list is endless. Check out Sharıs fiddle and improvisation books for some good music and techniques to launch yourself into this adventurous new genre!

Why play Electric String Instruments?

Most people who are looking into purchasing an electric string instrument have already learnt how to play the acoustic violin, viola cello or bass. But maybe they learned classical, and want to learn a different style, like rock, or folk. Others still use their acoustic instruments to perform, but want more volume, or want to begin recording.

There is something for everyone is the world of Electric Stringed Instruments...

Want to record ?

Need...

* Electric stringed instruments that will cut down on feedback unwanted bow sound, and unwelcome high frequencies....
Check out the Zeta, D&H and Yamaha industry standard studio and stage models.

* Versatility to record non-string sounds using your string instrument... a Zeta MIDI Synthony II allows you to play any imaginable sound on your instrument, whether in the studio, or live!

Want to play electric?

Need...

* A sturdy instrument for live gigs
* Easy sound adjustment on the fly
* High volume and great tone
* Compatibility with different effects pedals, like reverb, delay, octaves, or wah-wah...

Professional standards required?

Check out the performer controlled sound, industry standard electronics, nuanced tonality and fantastic sound of the Zeta and D& H, and Yamaha Electric models

Need a high tech instrument, with acoustic-style sound? Try the handcrafted Heys Express.

Looking for a smooth sound and appealing design? The Yamaha Collection

Want to rock? How about the Fender violin.

Just beginning? Try the Shar Electric Outfit including violin, case, bow and amp for $500.

You play acoustic?

* Play a moderate to large venue,
* Cut through in a multi-instrumental group
* Play with other electric instruments in a band...

Check out the Fishman Pick-ups and Pre-amps and Mixers

You want to practice at home, or while traveling but don't want to make too much noise...
the "Silent violin" feature on Yamahas and Zetas allows you to hear yourself through headphones, but keeps live volume down to a minimum.