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9 Best Violas 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Mendini by Cecilio 16-Inch MA250 Varnish Solid Wood Viola with Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Strings

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Sound
Craftsmanship
Strings and Setup

Most important from
1720 reviews

Sound
The sound quality is surprisingly good, with a beautiful and resonant tone, especially considering the price.
Craftsmanship
The craftsmanship is better than expected for a budget instrument, with strong pegs and working fine tuners.
Strings and Setup
Despite initial frustrations with tuning, proper care and patience lead to a nearly perfect pitch.

The Mendini by Cecilio 16-Inch MA250 Varnish Solid Wood Viola is an attractive option for beginners and intermediate players. Its 16-inch size is suitable for adults and taller teenagers. The hand-carved solid spruce top and maple back and sides indicate good wood quality, contributing to a warm and resonant sound. The natural varnish finish adds to its aesthetic appeal.

The maple fingerboard, pegs, and chin rest, along with the alloy tailpiece equipped with four integrated fine tuners, ensure decent durability and ease of tuning. The included accessories such as a lightweight hard case, Brazilwood bow with unbleached Mongolian horsehair, rosin, and bridge are useful additions, making this a convenient all-in-one package for new players.

The sound quality, while adequate for beginners, may not meet the expectations of advanced players or those with professional aspirations. The craftsmanship, though solid, might lack the refinement found in higher-end violas. Additionally, some users may find the strings and initial setup require adjustments for optimal performance. Despite these drawbacks, the Mendini by Cecilio MA250 remains a favored entry-level viola due to its reasonable price, comprehensive accessory bundle, and solid construction.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Sound
Craftsmanship
Strings and Setup

Most important from
1720 reviews

Sound
The sound quality is surprisingly good, with a beautiful and resonant tone, especially considering the price.
Craftsmanship
The craftsmanship is better than expected for a budget instrument, with strong pegs and working fine tuners.
Strings and Setup
Despite initial frustrations with tuning, proper care and patience lead to a nearly perfect pitch.
#2

Mendini 16-Inch MA350 Satin Antique Solid Wood Viola with Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Strings

Rating
10.0
Sound
Strings and Setup

Most important from
1720 reviews

Sound
Despite its lightweight construction, the viola produces a beautiful, resonant, and bassy sound that amazed even first-time players.
Strings and Setup
The instrument's setup might need adjustments, but with patience and proper tuning, it achieves near-perfect pitch.

The Mendini 16-Inch MA350 Satin Antique Viola is a solid choice for beginners and intermediate players looking for a budget-friendly option. One of its standout features is the hand-carved solid spruce top paired with a maple back and sides, which contributes to a warm, resonant sound that many users appreciate. The size of 16 inches makes it suitable for a range of players, especially younger musicians or those with smaller hands. Additionally, it includes essential accessories like a lightweight hard case, a Brazilwood bow with genuine horsehair, rosin, and a bridge, making it a complete package for someone just starting out.

In terms of craftsmanship, the viola’s construction reflects reasonable quality for its price point, with a satin antique finish that is visually appealing. The maple fingerboard, pegs, and chin rest further enhance its durability.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The alloy steel strings, while adequate for beginners, may not provide the same depth of tone as higher-quality gut or synthetic strings, which more advanced players often prefer. Some users have noted that the setup may need adjustments, such as tuning or bridge placement, before achieving optimal playability.

Rating
10.0
Sound
Strings and Setup

Most important from
1720 reviews

Sound
Despite its lightweight construction, the viola produces a beautiful, resonant, and bassy sound that amazed even first-time players.
Strings and Setup
The instrument's setup might need adjustments, but with patience and proper tuning, it achieves near-perfect pitch.
#3

D Z Strad viola Model 101 with Strings, Case, Bow, Shoulder Rest, and Rosin (16" - Size)

Rating
9.8
Sound
Craftsmanship
Strings and Setup

Most important from
53 reviews

Sound
The sound quality is impressive, making it a fantastic choice for beginners and those returning to the instrument after a long break.
Craftsmanship
The craftsmanship of the D Z Strad viola is stunning, with beautiful woodwork and high-quality strings.
Strings and Setup
The viola comes fully assembled and ready to play, which is perfect for beginners who want to avoid the hassle of setup.

The D Z Strad viola Model 101 is a solid option for players looking for a well-crafted instrument at an affordable price. One of its standout features is the quality of materials used; the traditional spruce top and lightly figured maple back offer a nice aesthetic and contribute to a warm sound. The lacquer finish not only enhances the appearance but also protects the wood. With a 16-inch size, it's suitable for intermediate players or students who are transitioning to a larger viola.

The setup is another strong point. The instrument comes fully assembled and ready to play, which is a big plus for beginners or those who may not want to deal with the hassle of tuning and adjustments. The Wittner-style composite tailpiece with built-in fine tuners makes string adjustment easy, allowing for better tuning stability during practice or performance.

While many users appreciate the craftsmanship, some may find the sound projection to be less powerful compared to higher-end models. This could be a consideration for advanced players who need an instrument with greater volume and resonance. The included accessories like the Brazilwood bow and shoulder rest are decent but may not meet the expectations of more experienced musicians seeking premium equipment.

Rating
9.8
Sound
Craftsmanship
Strings and Setup

Most important from
53 reviews

Sound
The sound quality is impressive, making it a fantastic choice for beginners and those returning to the instrument after a long break.
Craftsmanship
The craftsmanship of the D Z Strad viola is stunning, with beautiful woodwork and high-quality strings.
Strings and Setup
The viola comes fully assembled and ready to play, which is perfect for beginners who want to avoid the hassle of setup.

Buying Guide for the Best Violas

Choosing the right viola can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know what to look for. The viola is a beautiful string instrument that requires careful consideration of several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best viola for you.
SizeThe size of the viola is crucial because it affects playability and comfort. Violas come in various sizes, typically ranging from 15 to 17 inches. A smaller viola (15-15.5 inches) is generally suitable for younger players or those with smaller hands, while a larger viola (16-17 inches) is better for adults or those with larger hands. To pick the right size, consider your arm length and hand size. It's important to try different sizes to see which one feels most comfortable and allows you to play with ease.
Wood QualityThe quality of the wood used in a viola significantly impacts its sound and durability. Common woods include spruce for the top and maple for the back, sides, and neck. Higher-quality woods produce a richer, more resonant sound. When evaluating wood quality, look for instruments with tight, even grain patterns and minimal imperfections. If you are a beginner, a viola made from good-quality laminate wood can be a cost-effective choice, while advanced players may prefer solid wood for its superior tonal qualities.
SoundThe sound of a viola is a key factor in your decision. A good viola should produce a warm, rich, and balanced tone across all strings. When testing a viola, play scales and pieces that cover a wide range of notes to assess its sound quality. Consider your musical style and preferences; for example, if you play in an orchestra, you might prefer a viola with a powerful, projecting sound, while soloists might look for a more nuanced, expressive tone. Always listen to the instrument in different environments to ensure it meets your expectations.
CraftsmanshipCraftsmanship refers to the overall build quality and attention to detail in the construction of the viola. Well-crafted violas have precise fittings, smooth finishes, and securely glued joints. High-quality craftsmanship ensures the instrument's longevity and playability. Examine the viola closely for any signs of poor workmanship, such as uneven varnish, rough edges, or loose parts. A well-made viola will not only look beautiful but also perform reliably over time.
Strings and SetupThe strings and setup of a viola can greatly influence its playability and sound. The setup includes the bridge, soundpost, tailpiece, and pegs. High-quality strings produce a better tone and are more responsive. When choosing a viola, check that the bridge is properly aligned, the soundpost is correctly positioned, and the pegs turn smoothly. If possible, have a professional luthier inspect the setup to ensure optimal performance. Beginners might start with standard strings, while advanced players may experiment with different string brands to find their preferred sound.
BowThe bow is an essential part of playing the viola, and its quality can affect your performance. Bows are typically made from wood or carbon fiber. A good bow should feel balanced in your hand and produce a clear, even sound. When selecting a bow, consider its weight, flexibility, and balance. Try playing with different bows to see which one complements your playing style and the viola's sound. Beginners may start with a basic bow, while more experienced players might invest in a higher-quality bow for better control and sound production.

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