Online Auctions

Online auction sites can be a great source of string instruments, especially for the beginning string player.  The options can be a bit overwhelming, but here are a few tips to give you a better chance of getting a good instrument for your money.   

Online auctions are becoming increasingly popular for the purchase of student level string instruments due to the widespread availability of very cheap Chinese instruments, which are often available at prices under $100.  This may seem like an attractive alternative to renting or purchasing a more expensive instrument, and it can be a great option for some people.  However, there are a few important things that one must understand about these instruments.

1. Most sellers do not know anything about string instruments.  At the very least, try to look for instruments sold by a music store that sells online.  Many of the sellers just send you instrument as they received it from the distributor without even opening the case.
2. These instruments can vary widely in quality, even instruments in the same price range.
3. Always buy a student violin with 4 fine tuners.  Many of the cheaper models come with fine tuners built into the tailpiece.
4. With rare exceptions, the instrument will not be ready to play when you receive it, even though the seller may say it is.  Unless the seller states that the instrument was professionally set up, it will need to be set up when you receive it.
5. A violin sold for under $100 will never be more than an adequate beginner instrument, no matter how much money is put into it.

With few exceptions, an instrument purchased online will need to be professionally set up once you receive it.  Almost every instrument will be shipped with the bridge detached from the instrument.  Most cheap instruments will have the bridge wrapped in paper and placed under the tailpiece.  Unless the top has been cut and has notches for strings, it will not work.

If the bridge has been cut, the feet might still have to be fitted.  Once the bridge is placed on the instrument, the feet must fit perfectly on the top of the instrument.  If there are any gaps on the side of either foot, the bridge does not fit and must be installed by a professional.

The bridge is the most important part of your new instrument.  It mst be cut and fit properly for your instrument to be playable and produce a good sound.  In addition, replacing some of the parts of the instrument will make a big difference in how easy it is to play and the sound it produces.  Here is a list of parts and work for a typical instrument purchased online (prices are estimates for a violin):

These instruments can still be a good deal, but be aware that they usually require work when you get them.

Here are some things to look for when purchasing a student instrument:

• Ebony fingerboard and pegs, not hardwood or ebonized
• Inlaid purfling, not painted
• Bow with real horsehair, not synthetic
• Professionally set-up
• Featherlite or better case, not a hard shell or wooden case

Keep in mind that even more expensive instruments may still need to have the bridge cut and fit, and many could use better strings, but the quality of the instrument is usually better and it will last longer and perform better.

If you are planning to purchase a full size instrument that will be used for many years, consider investing in a more advanced instrument.  A cheap instrument is not acceptable for a serious musician.  In addition, a fine instrument will increase in value over time.  Fine instruments should not be purchased online.  If you are making a large investment, go and play the instrument to ensure that you like the look and feel and sound of it.  Just because it is more expensive doesn't mean it is better.  Look at several instruments and purchase the one you like the best.

(Courtesy of Aaron Strange)