The violin is a perfect acoustic design – not a perfect electric design. Attaching a pickup will turn any violin, even a Stradivarius, into a mediocre electro-acoustic with constant risk of feedback and unwanted handling noises from the violin body. Many violinists are also hesitant to attach mic and cable to their fragile acoustic instruments.
Experiment! Any amplifier or PA system with an instrument-level input will work. Do not connect Elvari to amplifiers that are made specifically for electric guitar as they usually cannot reproduce Elvari’s output signal correctly. A full-range amplifier for acoustic instruments is required to give Elvari’s tone justice. We have found that the Boss AC-22LX on the “AB” (Air Feel) setting sounds great and surprisingly loud. This affordable amp weighs only 8 lb & 14 oz (4 kg) and can be battery-powered. It also has stereo line outs so that you can connect directly to other amplifiers or a mixer when you play at larger venues.
Another option is the Roland Mobile Cube. It doesn’t provide as much amplification as the Boss, but it offers a very nice sound quality and works excellently in smaller settings. It also has some effects. It’s a very cost-effective and easily transportable alternative (weighs only 5 lb & 9 oz, or 2.5 kg).
If you look closely at the tone plate you can clearly see a little countersink. This is where the bridge should stand. Just like with an acoustic violin it is important to regularly check that the bridge is standing up straight (not tilting forward or backward) for optimal tone quality.
In Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Västerås. Contact us for more information.
You can plug Elvari into any instrument-level input. The standard 1 megohm impedance of these inputs will give you a nice, rich sound.
Shipping is free within the EU. Please contact us if you live outside the EU and we will find out what your shipping cost will be. We do however reserve the right not to ship to certain destinations.
Elvari is passive but still outputs a powerful signal. Active electric violins can interfere with electronics in wireless systems. In addition, heavy 9V batteries are needed which must be replaced before each concert. The built-in passive electronics in Elvari mean more reliability, and reliability is priceless in a live context. Wireless systems have an added advantage in that they make your Elvari active – if you need this.
Yes. We recommend good-quality synthetic strings or steel strings based on your own preferences. No strings specially made for electrical violins should be used on Elvari. The tone plate and the bridge need the pressure from ordinary violin strings to work well.
Feel free to experiment with different effect pedals for electric guitar. It is a matter of personal preference. We like the Line 6 Helix family of products.
Around 6 months. Expected delivery time will be specified on your invoice.