Are you looking for a high-quality acoustic viola that produces superior sound? We understand how challenging it can be to find the perfect instrument that meets all your needs. That's why we researched and tested various options in the market to provide you with the best acoustic violas for superior sound quality.
As you may know, acoustic violas are crucial for professional musicians, students, and enthusiasts who desire exceptional sound quality. The quality of the viola can significantly impact the sound produced, and that's why we considered essential criteria such as the materials used, build quality, sound projection, and customer reviews.
Our goal is to help you make an informed decision and provide valuable insights to aid you in finding the perfect acoustic viola that meets your needs. We understand that there are several challenges to consider, such as budget, brand reputation, and other personal preferences. However, with our expert insights and essential criteria, you can eliminate the guesswork and find the perfect acoustic viola for your needs.
Stay tuned as we reveal the top-ranking acoustic violas for superior sound quality, and unlock the potential of your musical talent.
Our Top Picks
Best Acoustic Violas for Superior Sound Quality
Cecilio Viola Ebony D'Addario Prelude
The Cecilio CVA-500 Solidwood Ebony Fitted Viola with D'Addario Prelude Strings is a perfect choice for intermediate and advanced players. The 16-inch size and satin antique finish make it a beautiful addition to any orchestra. The solidwood body and ebony fittings provide a rich and warm tone. The D'Addario Prelude strings produce a clear and powerful sound, making it suitable for solo performances as well. Overall, the CVA-500 is a high-quality instrument that offers exceptional value for its price.
Solid wood construction
Ebony fittings
D'Addario Prelude strings
Satin antique finish
May not be suitable for beginners
Some users report issues with tuning pegs
No shoulder rest included
Great value for a solid wood viola with quality strings.
Cecilio Solidwood Viola Natural 13-inch
The Cecilio CVA-400 Solidwood Viola is a high-quality instrument that is perfect for both beginners and professionals alike. Made from solid wood, this viola produces a warm, rich sound that is sure to impress. With a size of 13 inches, it is comfortable to play and easy to handle.
This viola is perfect for use in orchestra settings, as well as for solo performances. It is easy to tune and stays in tune for extended periods, making it a reliable choice for musicians of all levels. The flamed finish adds a touch of elegance to the instrument, making it a beautiful addition to any collection.
Overall, the Cecilio CVA-400 Solidwood Viola is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality instrument at an affordable price. Its solid wood construction and warm, rich sound make it a popular choice among musicians of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, this viola is sure to impress.
Solid wood construction
Beautiful flamed finish
Includes case and accessories
Affordable price
May need professional setup
Size may not fit all
No shoulder rest included
Great value for a beginner violist.
Mendini 14-Inch Natural Varnish Viola.
The Mendini 14-Inch MA250 Varnish Solid Wood Viola with Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge, and Strings 14-in. Natural Varnish is a high-quality musical instrument perfect for beginners and intermediate players. Made from solid wood and varnished in a natural finish, this viola produces a warm and rich sound that is perfect for classical music. The package includes a case, bow, rosin, bridge, and strings, making it easy to get started with playing. The viola is lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for students who are just starting out. Overall, the Mendini 14-Inch MA250 Varnish Solid Wood Viola is a great investment for anyone looking to learn how to play the viola.
Solid wood
Includes accessories
Great price
Beautiful varnish
May need adjustments
Bridge may need replacing
Bow could be better
Great value for beginners and students.
D Z Strad Viola 14 Inch
The D Z Strad Viola Model 120 is a perfect choice for viola players of all levels. This viola comes with everything you need to get started, including strings, a case, bow, shoulder rest, and rosin. Available in a 14" size, it is made with high-quality materials that produce a rich and warm sound. The viola is lightweight and easy to handle, making it ideal for both beginners and professionals. Its durable construction ensures that it will last for years to come. Whether you're a student or a seasoned musician, the D Z Strad Viola Model 120 is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality viola at an affordable price.
Complete package
Good sound quality
Well-made instrument
Affordable price
Limited size options
Bow quality could improve
Shoulder rest not adjustable
The D Z Strad Viola Model 120 is a quality instrument that comes with everything needed to get started. Great for beginners or intermediate players.
D Z Strad Viola Handmade.
The D Z Strad Viola model 400 is a stunning instrument made by prize-winning luthiers. Handmade with care, this viola has a 16.5" size that is perfect for intermediate to advanced players. The spruce and maple woods used to craft this instrument produce a rich, warm sound that is both powerful and nuanced.
Whether you're performing in a concert hall or practicing at home, the D Z Strad Viola model 400 is a versatile instrument that can meet your needs. Its craftsmanship and attention to detail make it a standout choice for any viola player looking for a high-quality instrument.
Professional quality
Handmade by prize winners
16.5-inch size available
Deep
rich sound
Expensive
Limited size options
May not suit beginners
A high-quality handcrafted viola by prize-winning luthiers.
Yinfente 5 String Viola with Case and Bow
The Yinfente 5 String Viola is a beautifully crafted instrument made with high-quality materials. The body is made of maple and spruce wood, while the fittings are made of ebony. Handmade by professionals, this viola comes with a case and bow. It is available in 16-inch, 15.5-inch, and 15-inch sizes.
Ideal for intermediate and advanced players, the Yinfente 5 String Viola offers a warm and rich sound with excellent projection. The extra string provides additional tonal range, making it a versatile instrument for a variety of musical genres. The included case and bow ensure that the viola is protected and ready to play.
Overall, the Yinfente 5 String Viola is a great investment for serious musicians looking for a high-quality instrument. Its beautiful craftsmanship and exceptional sound make it a standout choice for intermediate and advanced players alike.
High-quality materials
Hand-made professional instrument
Comes with a case and bow
Available in multiple sizes
May be expensive for beginners
Limited color options
May require professional tuning
A hand-made, professional 5-string viola with ebony fittings and a maple spruce wood body. Includes a case and bow. Available in different sizes.
Apollo Solidwood Viola with Ebony Fittings and Case
The Apollo 14-inch Solidwood Viola with Ebony Fittings is a great option for those starting with this instrument. Made with high-quality materials, this viola has a solidwood body and ebony fittings, providing a warm and rich sound. The set also includes a case and D'Addario Prelude strings, making it ready to play out of the box. This viola is perfect for beginners, students, and anyone looking for an affordable option without compromising on quality. With its compact size, it is easy to handle and transport. Overall, the Apollo 14-inch Solidwood Viola is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to learn to play this beautiful instrument.
Solidwood construction
Ebony fittings
Comes with case
D'Addario Prelude Strings
May need tuning
Limited size options
No bow included
The Apollo 14-inch viola is a solid choice for beginners, complete with quality fittings and strings.
Paititi 4-String Viola-Acoustic
The Paititi 4-String Viola-Acoustic (PTTVA-14V) 14'' is a great instrument for beginners and intermediate players alike. The viola has a beautiful sound and is made from high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, and the ebony fingerboard allows for smooth and precise playing. The viola also comes with a bow and a case, making it a convenient purchase for those just starting out. Overall, the Paititi 4-String Viola-Acoustic (PTTVA-14V) 14'' is a great investment for anyone looking to learn and grow as a musician.
Affordable price
Good for beginners
Solid maple construction
Comes with a case
Not suitable for advanced players
May need tuning upon arrival
Limited color options
Affordable acoustic viola with decent sound quality.
Sky Solid Wood Antique Viola Outfit with Case.
The Sky Brand New Solid Wood Antique Viola Outfit is a top-quality instrument that comes with everything you need to get started. It includes a lightweight case, bow, and rosin, making it easy to transport and play wherever you go. Made from solid wood, this viola produces a rich and warm tone that is perfect for both beginners and experienced players. The 12-inch size is ideal for children and smaller adults, and the antique finish adds a touch of elegance to any performance. Whether you're playing in a school orchestra or on stage, the Sky Brand New Solid Wood Antique Viola Outfit is a great choice.
Solid wood construction
Antique look
Lightweight case included
Comes with bow and rosin
May not be suitable for beginners
Only available in 12 inch size
Price may be high for some
Affordable, high-quality viola outfit with antique finish and lightweight case.
Lykos Back to School Viola Set 15 inch Natural
The Back to School Basswood Acoustic Viola is an excellent choice for students looking to learn the viola. This affordable instrument comes with a case, bow, and rosin, making it perfect for beginners who need everything to get started. With a 15" size and natural finish, this viola is both lightweight and beautiful. Made with high-quality basswood, it produces a warm and resonant sound that is perfect for players of all levels. Whether you're practicing at home or performing on stage, this viola is sure to impress.
Complete package with accessories
Affordable price
Beautiful natural finish
Suitable for beginners
May require tuning
Quality may not match professional standards
Limited size options
A great value beginner viola with accessories.
Buyers Guide
When choosing the right acoustic viola, there are several important criteria to consider. Here are the top five factors to keep in mind:
1. Size: Acoustic violas come in different sizes to suit players of all ages and abilities. It's important to choose a viola that is the right size and comfortable to play. The most common sizes are 16", 15.5", 15", and 14", but it's best to try out different sizes before making a decision.
2. Material: The material used to make the viola can affect its sound and durability. Most acoustic violas are made from wood, with spruce and maple being the most popular choices. Higher-end violas may also feature exotic woods like ebony or rosewood. It's important to choose a viola made from quality materials that will produce a clear, resonant sound.
3. Brand and Reputation: Not all violas are created equal, so it's important to choose a reputable brand with a good track record. Look for brands that are well-known in the music industry and have a history of producing high-quality instruments. Research online reviews and ask for recommendations from other musicians or music teachers.
4. Sound Quality: The sound quality of a viola is arguably the most important factor to consider. Look for violas that produce a warm, rich tone with good projection and sustain. It's best to try out different violas in person to get a sense of their sound before making a decision.
5. Price: Finally, consider your budget when choosing an acoustic viola. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it's important to find a viola that fits your budget while still meeting your needs in terms of size, material, brand, and sound quality.
By keeping these criteria in mind, you can choose the right acoustic viola for your needs and enjoy playing beautiful music for years to come.
FAQ
Q: What should I consider when choosing an acoustic viola?
A: When choosing an acoustic viola, there are three main criteria to consider: size, quality, and price. The size of the viola should fit the player's body, so it's important to measure the player's arm length and consult a size chart. Quality refers to the materials used and craftsmanship of the instrument, which can affect the sound and playability. Finally, price is a consideration for most buyers, as violas can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Q: What is the best size for an acoustic viola?
A: The size of an acoustic viola should be based on the player's arm length, which can be measured from the neck to the wrist with the arm extended. Violas come in different sizes, from 15 to 17 inches, and it's important to choose the size that fits the player's body to ensure proper posture and technique.
Q: What is the difference between a beginner and professional acoustic viola?
A: The main difference between a beginner and professional acoustic viola is the quality of materials and craftsmanship. Professional violas are made from higher quality woods, which can produce a richer and more complex sound. They are also crafted with more precision and attention to detail, resulting in a more responsive and playable instrument. Beginner violas, on the other hand, are often made from lower quality woods and may have slight imperfections in the construction.
Q: What should I look for in the sound of an acoustic viola?
A: When choosing an acoustic viola, it's important to listen for a clear and balanced tone across all strings. The sound should be warm and resonant, with good projection and sustain. It's also important to test the instrument's responsiveness and playability, as these factors can affect the overall sound and feel of the viola.
Q: How do I know if I'm getting a good value for my money?
A: To ensure you're getting a good value for your money, it's important to consider the three criteria mentioned earlier: size, quality, and price. Look for a viola that fits your body, is made from high-quality materials, and is priced reasonably for its level of craftsmanship and sound. It's also a good idea to do research and read reviews from other players and experts to get a sense of the viola's reputation and value.
Conclusions
After conducting a thorough review of some of the top acoustic violas on the market, we highly recommend the Cecilio CVA-500 Solidwood Ebony Fitted Viola and the Mendini 14-Inch MA250 Varnish Solid Wood Viola.
Both of these instruments offer exceptional sound quality and are made from high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. The Cecilio CVA-500 features D'Addario Prelude strings and a beautiful satin antique finish, while the Mendini MA250 boasts a natural varnish finish and comes complete with a case, bow, rosin, bridge, and strings.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, these violas are sure to impress. However, we encourage you to do your own research and consider your specific needs and preferences before making a final decision.
Overall, we hope our review has been helpful in guiding you towards the perfect acoustic viola for your needs. Thank you for reading, and we wish you the best of luck in your musical endeavors!
