Erockin - Posted - 09/05/2023:  06:19:03

Because there are so many well informed players here with outstanding insight when it comes to violins....My eyes are focused on a new instrument. As I embark on the 1 year mark and fall always brings a time of change....I want a new ride. Price isn't going to be a factor at certain points because if I find the right one within the budget, I'm going to know if it's the one. How do you know though? I mean, you can sometimes tell which one it isn't. I guess that's where I'm at now. I like mine, but I don't love it. It's fun to browse and research and as I learn more, I know what I like and what I don't like. I thought I liked the helicore strings but after borrowing that 2004 Chimney Violin, the standard is now a we bit higher. That was strung with Dominants so I think that might be my next string.

I get why older is better. I also get why even older is better. But in the end, it has to look, sound and feel the way that's pleasing to you. I love old fiddles but I also liked that 2004 one I just borrowed. Something is appealing about a brand new one as well. A new one will change and age over time and that process is also appealing.

What I'm looking for is:

1 piece back
love the deep flamed sides.
Love the antique finish but not too glossy
Hopeful for ebony finger board as well as all the fittings.
Fine tuners for all the strings.
Not a fan of the deep red....or blonde.
My goal is 1k or so. Like to invest in a proper case.

Super old ones are cool. They have many stories to tell. I come across ones that are $400 online and with fiddles, that's not a lot but that doesn't mean it's not a great sounding instrument. Volume and Tone are at the forefront but the look is in there too. I've played many cool instruments but if the head stock doesn't look a certain way...or strange pick guard, I'll pass. You know, it's nice when the look matches up.
All of this is so subjective but while I'm researching, this is what's on my mind.

RobBob - Posted - 09/06/2023:  08:13:12

This one may be right for you here.  I just saw it and admired the back.

Lonesome Fiddler - Posted - 09/06/2023:  13:24:11

As far as I'm concerned, tone is king. Everything else is filigree. In other words, find a fiddle that might satisfy your budget & various ancillary obsessions, chuck the prospective beast under your chin and play it. If it is possible, get somebody else to play it and listen to the instrument from various distances. A luthier (if, indeed, one is within driving distance) can always shape a bridge to your preference or otherwise adjust the action. If you like chin rests, try and locate one that looks like it'll be the right shape for you and park it at the spot where things are most comfortable. To be sure, I lived in a large enough city to be able to shop at maybe four or five string instrument shops, but I'd bet that you'd be able to land more-than-satisfying stuff by dealing with one of the dealers that grace this site.

Erockin - Posted - 09/07/2023:  04:30:00

I agree, Ed! The next won't be the last. I'd love to pick one up from this site. I'd have no hesitation there. A fiddle is more personal of an instrument than any I've owned or played. I've tried all the other instruments so I can easily order an Electric bass online, keys, or a even a guitar this point. I was explaining to my teacher last night that I worked my way up to a Martin but with the violin, at age 45, I'm not waiting until I'm 65 to get a nice instrument...lol...There's no way I'm backing off now...lol.

Tonight I'm visiting a lay's collection. Stopping by the bank on the way...stay tuned

old cowboy - Posted - 09/07/2023:  05:02:58

Take a look at the Fiddlershop online in fla.

Erockin - Posted - 09/07/2023:  05:16:21

quote:

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Originally posted by old cowboy

Take a look at the Fiddlershop online in fla.

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Oh I'd say based on reviews, that's the nest place online. I've watched a lot of their videos. Bought one of their bows. Love the Scott Cao violins. 

Erockin - Posted - 09/12/2023:  07:03:01

And just when you think the universe is listening, it decides to lob a curve ball and block your view. In these trying times, it's very hard to save money, especially when you're upgrading a violin. Last night, I was on my way to a rehearsal and grabbed my E Bass and the case wasn't closed. AND, I was listening to Megan's Fiddle podcast just yesterday on instrument mishaps. Like, hours before my incident. Yep...the bass smacked the concrete and busted a knob and took a chunk out of the body.
I literally have a cart ready on the Fiddlerman website...lol.
The pain has finally subsided and now I need to make an even bigger decision....Happy tuesday!

Erockin - Posted - 09/13/2023:  11:39:30

Video to come....but my teacher fixed a lot of questions in my life yesterday. He offered up to sell the violin i was borrowing a little while back. The violin I fell in love with and hated to give it back. Welp, next week it comes home to me! So stoked.