Decent Student Instrument But Needs A Better Bow

To properly review this instrument, I passed it off to a close family friend who is a luthier. The bridge does not come on the instrument so that it's not damaged during shipping. Assembly of this wasn't an issue for him but might be for someone not familiar with setting up a violin (also directions for how to do this are in the case as well as in the follow up email that you will receive.) As he does this for a living, I trust his opinion.

Here is what he told me: All parts work with correct assembly geometry/angles. Bridge required minor fitting. Sound post in the correct location. Pegs work properly. Fine tuners work very well. Projects nicely. A little harsh with the strings that are on it, but not bad, would like to check out with other strings. Action is a little high, but still quite playable, might want this a bit lower for some people. That would require some bridge and nut work. Bow is slightly crooked and does not play well or sound well for me. Includes extra strings and light rosin. Case is inexpensive, but will definitely protect the violin. A new student could play this with a step up bow (my $80 glasser worked fine with it). Again,this violin could sound better with different strings. Negatives: Plain wood with several minor finish flaws. But, not a big deal for a starting student violin that is going to be subject to some mishandling.