I bought a 100 dollar violin!!😬 Olaf reviews a cheap violin bought online...

This happens all the time!
Master Violin maker Olaf Grawert reviews $100 violin and shares what often happens when someone buys a AU$100 (US$65) violin and comes into his shop.
Also What's the difference between a $100 and $600 violin with a good set up.
Be fully informed when you buy your next instrument. Get Olaf's free 7 essentials when buying an instrument report here: olafgrawertvio...
Website:
www.olafgrawer...
Social:
/ olafgrawertviolinstudio
/ olafgrawertviolinstudi...

[@firelunamoon]

Olaf reviews a cheap violin: the violin gods have answered our prayers!

[@Taran858]

Maybe the god pillar will fix this one... :)

[@grantbmilburn]

And Alison, and who else? Consensus: you might get lucky, but please don't buy a really cheap violin.

[@petestv6142]

i think on the 100 dollar vso his contact point is slipping

[@asharm2289]

I love how two set spawned this entire extended universe of instrument youtubers that reference each other.

[@ruthsteen6943]

Ray did a video with Olaf before Twoset did actually! kzbin.info/www/bejne/j16paX-rn7qZm7c

[@AskOlaftheViolinmaker]

Me too... Also they spawned loads of new violinists who are passionate. Total legends!

[@GabsARV]

We're gonna get an Avengers type collab with Olaf, Ray, Hilary, and TwoSetViolin and every guest that TwoSet had.

[@user-74652]

It's funny how Ray Chen is the one who inspired them to make videos the way they do now, and now their channel has grown to be bigger than Ray's.

[@annakareninacamara6580]

@@GabsARV Don't forget Sophie Oui Oui representing the Piano Gang!! (which I'm from. Don't know what i'm doing here since I don't play the violin, but I love Olaf's channel too lol)

[@seagullofficial3057]

They should put a warning on these cheap sites: "for decorative use only".

[@AskOlaftheViolinmaker]

Brillant idea

[@emilia1911]

But cheap violins don't even look nice...

[@firelunamoon]

If you look at the one Brett and Eddy reviewed, I wouldn't even put that up in my house for decoration XD. I think the warning should be "for illustrative purposes only" but even that might be overselling it.

[@seagullofficial3057]

@@firelunamoon It would be a waste to use a perfectly fine violin as decoration only, wouldn't it? Of course you can use a good one as decoration AND instrument, but there seems to be a market for these cheap violins, so a warning wouldn't be a bad idea.

[@will2998]

@@firelunamoon Might be able to use that as a decoration. Specifically dystopian surrealist decoration.

[@twilightshadow1795]

"My violin isn't working." Have you tried turning it off then back on again?

[@AskOlaftheViolinmaker]

Haha... I should have popped that clip in!

Ask Olaf the Violinmaker You should review the nasa electrode violin next 😃

[@Sayrahthepirate]

Thanks for the laugh Melanie!

[@deadstone3807]

Olaf and his wigs never stop making me smile or laugh

[@GreatWesternWorks]

Never gets old 😂😂

[@evaphy]

Cheap violin Twoset: Meh just tape those pegs together Olaf: Ahhhhhhh(Scream Ray: Play it like a pro.

Brett ‘duct tape’ yang

[@sofiagustia676]

Sticky tapee

[@michael_koski]

I love this. I love it! I. Love. It.😂 Have a good day! - Ana

[@practicboi40hrs46]

I like how ray is like "you know i feel a 69 usd violin is good for begginer" Olaf is like "no"

[@AskOlaftheViolinmaker]

Yeah, I meet too many people who are passionate but really struggle with a cheap violin.

[@practicboi40hrs46]

@@AskOlaftheViolinmaker yeah lol

[@catzplaymc9003]

Ask Olaf the Violinmaker yeah, I had a really cheap violin that my teachers couldn’t even tune.

[@firelunamoon]

@@AskOlaftheViolinmaker I'm a beginner on the violin, after having studied piano for years. Even with this background in music already, I found the learning curve for the violin so steep and the frustration factor pretty high. Without a decent instrument, I would have just given up. After watching these videos, I've realised I'm lucky I managed to get a decent student violin from a local luthier without having to rob a bank.

[@evaweiss1160]

I got a 100€ Violin some years ago for camping trips and gave it to a friend who was a luthier-in-training. He said these cheap instruments are build to survive the transport not to sound great, but with the product variation you can sometimes get an okay instrument - but most people get bad ones. So after some adjustments to the bridge, soundpost and with a decent set of strings my Violin was playable. However I soon noticed it wasn't as beautiful to play as my normal student violin and sometimes even took my good violin in camping trips.

[@pugtm1585]

“It’s just a waste of timber” lol. Best roast ever!

[@otakuxgirl6]

Yeah they could have done something better with that timber lol

[@IzuLeMat]

meanwhile, Ray Chen with his $69 violin: play it like a master

[@feb5th]

He made a cheap violin sound half decent, but his Lingling skills still couldnt save it. Lol

[@reikayukii]

The musician does matter, but in the end ray called the violin sh*t anyway lol

[@picksalot1]

Ray made that violin sound quite good. I'd like to hear it with decent strings. Perhaps Olaf could supply one of his $500 violins to Ray to use in the "blind test" I suggested to him to see how well it would do against the $69 violin, etc.

[@pierrediab-clashroyalandmo4599]

He is a master

[@AskOlaftheViolinmaker]

He made a 1/4 size violin sound amazing! I'm sure he could make a cigar box with strings sound amazing 😄

[@soulofnature5439]

I watch Two set and than this utube recommended this I was like wait a minute-WHAT OLAF HAS HIS OWN CHANNEL

[@heythered3208]

She's In The Rain that is what I thought too when I found him! Twoset should actually put a link to his channel in the endcart when making a video with him!

[@putridabomination]

I instantly subscribed when I figured out

[@sky_3023]

I've never clicked on a video and subscribed so quickly before as well

[@lillythai7939]

The best $100 dollars I spent when I started was on a renting program. I wanted to make sure that I would commit and PRACTICE. So I went to a violin shop and asked if they did a renting program and most places do 😊 So I suggest renting for 3 months, see if you are willing to learn and practice then buy a nice one. Because more often then not, a student quality violin set up properly will okay enough quality for you to start then branch later. The good thing is you can return it and upgrade!!

[@alech9418]

So true. I even got a deal that allowed me to subtract paid rent from the coat of the insturment. I also bought used, so I got a pretty good price.

[@JustAnotherBuckyLover]

My first two violins - 1/2 and 3/4 size were hired from my primary school music program. When I was moving up to full size, my parents got me a reasonable French not-quite-beginners instrument that was £300 in 1987. No idea what that would translate to now.

[@Rayden440]

@@JustAnotherBuckyLover Adjusted for inflation that would be around £850 in 2020. Your parents bought a very nice starter violin for you.

[@CreativeSteve69]

I got my practice 4/4 violin when i took begining violin at my collage at my local music shop for $120 at the time 4 years ago. still have it to this day. havent played since i had to drop from my class due to health reasons at the time. But I did enjoyed my time and now after finding bout Brett and eddy then Ray then Olaf and Hillary. It's been getting me inspired to try n get back into music again after a 4 year break. :)

[@JustAnotherBuckyLover]

@@Rayden440 thanks 😊I knew roughly the inflation rate but I'm not sure if violin prices matched the general rate or how an 1890s-1900s violin's price appreciates/ depreciates.

[@constanzaaltamirano9269]

Because really, really, really cheap violins use white fingerboards and paint them black. Learn from Olaf!!! His old advices are applying now lol

[@jiyometrik]

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky When are you going to compose your 2nd violin concerto for Brett?

[@MawoDuffer]

Fingerboards are usually made of ebony because it's a very hard wood that lasts long. That and it looks cool.

[@constanzaaltamirano9269]

@@jiyometrik I have already composed it, but you know I'm not much like "alive", so I can't exactly give it to him, I need someone to give it to him from me, cuz I can't have contact with humans

[@Ouistiti_de_l_Espace]

@@constanzaaltamirano9269 That's a pretty good excuse.

[@constanzaaltamirano9269]

@@MawoDuffer yeah, I know, ebony is a really beautiful wood too, at least when it's used in violins it has a soft touch and it's really resistant

[@gclfunvdo]

OMG when I first saw Olaf with that wig, I jumped.

[@isaacchan1794]

calmly waiting for Olaf to put the Chinese pole gadget thing in it

[@eraimattei]

I don't think any musical instrument deserves such treatment. No matter how cheap

The GOD PILLAR

[@arlenellaban6977]

Janardan Shivashankar NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!

[@bany1688]

I'm more curious about the delivery, that was faster than 15 notes per second!

[@feb5th]

Im gonna buy a violin I will admit, that thought did come across my mind after watching twoset

[@Rolph-sr2gx]

Sameee

[@nikolasfurletti223]

They got me interested too. I rented and then bought one and It’s a great hobby!

[@giannisvar4414]

I will also get a violin but because of paganini his music moves me like nothing else

[@AlfredEiji]

Look to see if there’s a rent to own place near you.

[@IamNotANumber]

As an adult beginner I went to a violin shop, spoke to the luthier there and got a good deal. I paid £280 for a beautiful instrument to take me to grade 3. I'm currently grade 2 and it's done me so well and sounds beautiful.

[@jmisc]

Pay more.. these specialists are not making a lot of money yet their skills are precious..

[@franklinfredric743]

@@jmisc pay more? Yeah ill just buy some cheap ass 50$ guitar for my new hobby.

[@jmisc]

@Franklin Fredric yup go ahead and impress some ladies with your guitar skills. Each to their own thoughts. And perhaps go and apply to get a slot in America’s Got Talent too.

[@AskOlaftheViolinmaker]

Good to hear that you talked to the Luthier...

[@IamNotANumber]

£280 for a beginner violin is a good start. And I'll keep going back to the same luthier for maintenance of my violin and also when it's time to buy a new one.

[@diethylmalonate]

"I hope he's not too far away" was expecting "oh he lives right here?!?"

[@jillj1094]

Olaf, can you get the DIY violin that twoset got and try to fix it up LOL

[@soulofnature5439]

I wanted that took lmao

[@JoshuaSobel]

Yesssss

[@darthbee18]

I know Olaf would still enjoy that job nonetheless but what a torture 😂😂😂💀💀💀

[@will2998]

Even this violin got 400 AUD worth of repair. I doubt repairing that abomination will be any less than making a violin from scratch

[@JustAnotherBuckyLover]

LMAO I think we *all* want Ray to be our teacher! LOL Have you been watching his masterclasses, Olaf? Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us. I love watching you work.

[@AskOlaftheViolinmaker]

I love Ray's masterclasses!

[@JustAnotherBuckyLover]

@@AskOlaftheViolinmaker he's amazing, I'm enjoying his stream with Alice Sara Ott right now. So interesting and he always seems a good bloke too!

[@FleuryJoao]

These cheap instrument videos always leave me with a question, and you are probabily the most qualified person to answer it. Even though it is not worth it costwise or benefitwise, how "fixable" is a violin like this? Would love to see a video like that, from the technical/craftsman standpoint. Cheers!

[@Teeeeeeener]

He answers that at 6:00. *edited time stamp.

[@feb5th]

I wanna see him try to fix an unsalvageable violin too

[@Myrlin76]

I had a $100USD violin and while it didn't sound great, it was enough to get me started. I later decided to upgrade the strings, bridge and tail piece based on another KZbin recommendation when I discovered a crack under the tail piece. I didn't think the instrument worth that kind of repair.

[@FleuryJoao]

​@@Teeeeeeener indeed he does. I am, however, very interested in the details of this kind of project. Olaf is great at showing and explaining the hows and whys of violin building and fixing. Would be a treat to see, I think.

[@Teeeeeeener]

@@FleuryJoao It would be. I agree.

[@evafastova3198]

I bought a 100 USD violin to annoy my parents who forced me into singing

[@Vokabre]

In traditional art i notice a peculiar issue, when you have a certain degree of professionality you can compensate the poor quality tools and materials, but poor quality tools and materials are usually those that are aimed at and used by beginners. So just a little bit of investment in the beginning saves a lot of trouble and nerves. Quite a similar feeling issue here, perhaps.

[@cactussmallz]

Olaf: *screaming internally* Also olaf: *internal self still doesnt dare to smash the violin*

[@molemonade6754]

ItsCacti you mean the thing that kinda resembles a violin, a VSO

[@cactussmallz]

@@molemonade6754 that thing doesnt deserve the name 'violin shaped object' lol

[@BonafideToolJunkie]

Seems to be an ideal violin for capturing feelings of agony.

[@stringsarebetter5296]

The VSO problem is real. (Violin Shaped Object)

[@joobin814]

Professional actor. He was able to hide his disgust while doing that intro part

[@not_anton]

I though Olaf is exaggerating, but my brand new Yamaha V7G violin measured 5,5mm on E string so I gave it a try. Cut the nut and bridge with a file, measured with a ruler and a set of old feeling gauges for motorcycle valve clearance adjustments... It is unbelievable that a few mm (or tens of mm at the nut) difference makes for playability! Instead of pushing strings down and keeping left hand tight, placing fingers down was enough. It's so weird that Yamaha found time to chalk fit the bridge to the instrument (bridge had chalk marks on its feet), but did not care to adjust its height that is so much faster to do. So sad that Yamaha cost x10 more and still had exactly the same problems. Most people will continue playing as is, hoping that for this price the instrument maker did the necessary setup.

[@Dmichoacan]

haha This was basically me when i first bought my violin. It’s not as bad as the one you got Olaf, but I’m definitely looking forward to go into a violin shop and upgrade.

[@mattdbridges]

oh i clicked on the bell all right! I am an adult student that started off just exactly like this i bought the 65 usd instrument, set it up myself but as soon as i had the cash i got a much better luthier set up instrument and the difference is incredible. i wager this video has saved a lot of people considerable frustration. good on you keep up the great work Olaf. if i lived closer id come shake your hand.

[@VIM365]

Another outstanding video Olaf! P.S. *Im loving these wigs and the story you put into these vids!*

[@LeakyBellows]

Oh god, I made this mistake... I've always wanted to learn violin. One day, I had a bit of extra money and too much to drink, so I bought one of these super cheap violins on Amazon (I just checked, it's a Mendini MV200). I think I spent, like, $70 US on it. I figured, how bad could it possibly be? Well, it was worse than I ever could have imagined. Out of the box, it was damn near unplayable. At first I thought it was just because I was a beginner, but I simply couldn't get a sound out of it that didn't make me want to scream. Long story short, I spent another ~$100 on a decent bridge, better rosin, and passable strings. To my great surprise... It was still horrendous. Now I'm stuck with a vaguely violin-shaped piece of firewood.

[@cain_chamomille]

WHAT THE EVEN OLAF JOINS TWOSET ROASTING HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA **DYING OUT OF LAUGHS**

[@heythered3208]

I nearly bought such a violin myself! Luckily I got to know that my grandparents had a,violin in their attic, which once was really expensive. I am going to get it soon! I really hope that it isn’t damaged. Thank you for this interesting video 😁

[@otakuxgirl6]

It will be out of tune

[@kaischrank]

@@otakuxgirl6 Uh-huh.

[@heythered3208]

A cHoPiN fAn it definately will need a professional to look over it and I expect to spend a little bit of money for a repair but there wont be a big damage, as it was stored securely 😉

[@heythered3208]

Alan Deutsch, Haha 😂😂 No it is not a strad (very sad, I know), it was build in Mittenwald (Germany). If it was a strad my grandparents totaly would have seld it before I even touched it 😂

[@Calantha42]

I had a my grandmother's violin fixed up, an early 20th century German trade violin originally sold for beginners/amateurs. Ultimately it cost slightly more than buying an intro level instrument similar to what Olaf recommended, but knowing that it was a Grandma's made it completely worth it.

[@fnersch3367]

I am restoring a 75 years old Czech violin (made by a toy company & broken in several pieces; paid $10). Its logo has a lion crouching on a drum. I am learning a lot from your videos.Thanks.

[@grantbmilburn]

Yep, this was me back in the day. I wanted a violin but didn't have much spare cash or know much about buying violins so I walked into a book/sports/music shop and said naively: "oh look how cheap the violins are! BARGAIN!! This is wonderful! I didn't realise you could buy a violin so cheaply." Of course I was smart enough not to buy the cheapest VSO on offer, because it might be rubbish. I cunningly sprang for the second cheapest. (about $AUS 70 equivalent. ) Well it sounded ok at first but after a while I could hardly bear to listen to myself. My first violin lessons had been on a quality borrowed instrument, so I knew the issue wasn't just my playing. Also it proved difficult to keep in tune. I was a little more careful selecting my next violin: I went to a music shop and paid $ AUS 350 equivalent and later fitted the violin with new Dominant strings. It sounds like a Strad compared to my first violin,though there are still some issues. For my third violin, I'll fly to Brisbane and have a natter with Olaf- see what can get for $1,000 or so...

[@marimba_man1]

Being someone who bought a $140 US dollar trombone, I will say... “It got the job done.” I wasn’t looking to get into an orchestra with it, I just wanted to play a few notes and start learn brass embouchures and stuff. It worked great for only those reason.

[@ScottRedstone]

I viewed a few other posts on why inexpensive violins aren’t a good investment. Those videos talked about wood and craftsmanship or lack of and improper setup. They didn’t explain the WHY. You did. Inexpensive strings sound bad. String spacing is important because it affects playability. Finger board needs proper shape to minimize strain when playing. And cheap violins change pitch when bowing pressure changes. All this I learned from you just now. Thank you. One post actually said, “an inexpensive violin might get setup by someone who isn’t in the US.” I guess the French or Italians or British just don’t know how to make a decent instrument. Glad I found you.

[@molekyyli]

My bf has a cheap guitar and the nut is not attached straight with the rest of the guitar, it's tilted... But it's still actually playable though I can't really say much more about it, it's a right-handed instrument and I'm a lefty and have lefty guitars. Setup is partially ok, partially not. But I managed to play Greensleeves on it upside down, just for fun. 🤣

[@brynnmccullough9088]

This violin (the $100 one) makes me very grateful for my parents purchasing my first student violin. It was a very nice student violin and carried me all the way through high school. I’ve purchased 2 additional since then and I love them very much.

[@41cadence]

These skits male my day! I so look forward to them. Thank you, maestro!

[@trajtemberg]

I think its still a good option for someone who is broke, has a lot of time and wants to learn the craft. Fixing crap like this is how many luthiers got started.

[@arthurvalentine3524]

His sketches so family cringy in a good way. Like cute, Idk how to explain that feeling))) Am I the only one?

[@TheKb117]

and I feel that is the appeal to it... the cringiness is just... just... can't describe it either hahahahah

[@arthurvalentine3524]

@@TheKb117 I mean like...u feel cringe and love at the same time???

[@alexjustalexyt1144]

It reminds me of the old KZbin. Has a little bit of the old feel. Idk if that makes sense

[@micaelrodrigues5821]

Must be because it looks like our father or uncle made youtube videos

[@PrincessSixThirteen]

Adorkable. The word is adorkable.

[@belladingdong3396]

Yay! Another Olaf video! I loooo000ve your videos, Olaf. I would be interested to see if you could take that DIY assemble-yourself violin 2set got a few videos back and transform it into something playable. Much love from America!

[@ratter1023]

I'm glad I spent so much time absorbing twoset videos during quarantine that I discovered great new classical music channels, and also get most references and know who are you all talking about :D

[@aileenrfader]

I actually started on a similar but even cheaper violin (~$50). On the third year of my formal lessons, the fingerboard twist from the nut towards the bridge got so bad that I had to use a higher bridge setup otherwise the string vibration would hit the fingerboard while playing. Combined with a busier schedule at college, I stopped playing shortly after that. I restarted practicing scales since the lockdown but definitely thinking of upgrading after watching a lot of your videos.

[@nevernaught3871]

I like to imagine Olaf's neighbours' reactions to him just hanging out around his workshop in different wigs.

[@arlenellaban6977]

Carlo Broschi aaaaaaaa

[@wongsephjo]

3:44 if you can shout slowly you can shout quickly

[@roccotarli762]

Thanks for the video Olaf! These things are going great to know for the super beginners out there that might be enticed by a very low price, but won’t even be getting an instrument worth playing on at all.

[@puutans]

Thank you, Mr. Olaf! I was always curious about how different those cheapest and proper beginner violins were. I appreciate your explanation about details.✨ By the way, that G string was just like a comedy!!

[@nupsiwulst9946]

Oh Olaf - I love your videos. They are interesting, funny and somewhere hidden there is always a bit of comfort for us mere mortals who struggle with the violin. Thank you! 😀

[@SculptyWorks]

Violins can be scary expensive! But another thing worth mentioning is that a lot of violin shops have rental and/or rent-to-own programs that allow you to make payments so you can start out with a decent instrument! 👍

[@steelavocado1]

I found a violin on wish.com for $15 and only $2 shipping. Half the comments were people complaining it didn’t work because they didn’t know to rosin the bow...

[@16Brend]

I used to play violin for quite a few years back in high school & uni. I actually bought my first and only factory made violin for less than USD $60 (or $60). Most people including my former teacher think my violin sounds much better than the usual violin at that price. I believe it's nowhere near $800 violin but I would like to believe it's at least "passable" for beginner. Now I'm really curious to get your opinion. Maybe one day I'll come to Australia and visit your store to show you my violin and buy a new one there 😂 Hope one day I can get back to learning violin and actually stick with it long run. It's not easy to find honest trusted violin seller (and maker/luthier). Honestly, it's also one of the reason I've never managed to buy a new violin..Thank you for the content and doing what you do!

[@LemonEyesNL]

I bought the stentor 2 for 160 euro on amazon. I am quiet sensitive to sound and I want to hear a good sound and I must say.. its a great violin to start with :D Downs: the rosin it comes with is meh. And the bridge is super thin so I had it broken twice (I forgot to look after the bridges tilting while reputting a string so the bridge snapped and second time I tried to losen the strings to put pencil on the bridge and I did not look that the bridge was tilting again... ha ha.. yea I am a full beginner so I can make these mistakes twice.. right.. (3 months of experience) so don't kill me Olaf >< and so I glued it back together and put it back on the violin. Futher no issues whatsoever. With logic and youtube and good listening to what people say you come far.

[@heythered3208]

somer summer I wish you the best of luck! Keep it up 🙏🏼

[@iRubarB]

I bought a Gliga "St Romani" 3 for $503 AUD last week with the intent to learn violin. night and day difference in looks and sound from my sisters cheap one i found under a bed from well over 5 years ago. Things are cheap for a reason

[@yuyuzhao96]

Thank you so much for the video, I have learned a lot from it, especially, after I brought both Suzuki violin ($400) and Cecilio CVN-200 ($120). I am new to violin, and trying to learn violin. If I only have CVN-200, I may not notice negative about it, unfortunately, I also brought Suzuki, they have huge differences, 1) the string, as you mentioned, CVN-200's strings are so thing (less gauge?), the G string is same thickness of D or A strings of my Suzuki. 2) fingerboard or the end of the fingerboard that you yank is too high, which make the e sting hard to press as it is too high from the fingerboa when pressing down. I also see many violinists reviews cheap violins, but never tell you the details of why when it is not easy to play.

[@gabyabed]

Am I the only one nervous that these expensive violins are in a shop with a direct view of the street and anyone looking in? (well, not the $100 one)

[@pringr]

This video prompted me to shine a torch inside what I thought was my violin. It was not a pretty sight. I reckon I’ve got a VSO.

[@nistarok123]

I'm a complete beginner and I recently bought a Stentor Student 1018A for the equivalent of ~120 USD. I'm definitely happy with the sound, I can definitely tell that I myself am the weakest element of the violin lol.

[@litbro8180]

1:56 I’ll be adopting this bow hold technique into my own playing. Brilliant

[@zuricchu]

I'm not a violin player but this has help me in deciding which instrument to buy, as I'm looking to start learning a new one. This is really helpful, thanks Olaf!

[@user-74652]

Several years ago, my mother bought me a cello for my birthday for about $400 CAD (at that point, I had played the cello in high school, but graduated and had no cello to call my own). The thing about it is that, unlike what I hear from the violin in this video, it is actually possible to get a good sound out of my cello (and I have tried a cello in high school that sounded much worse), but you have to work very hard for it. Several months ago, I noticed how bad I was sounding and decided to go to a couple of instrument shops to try out their inexpensive cellos, and that journey made me truly realise that my cello is a piece of crap, especially because of the spacing between the strings and the fingerboard. Now that I have a proper job, I can finally start saving up for a decent instrument (it's not the main instrument I play, so I don't need a high-end professional one, just one that's not garbage).

[@tischkantenknall6369]

You know what? This kind of awkwardness you give off while acting is actually really funny😅. I'll start following you for now, let's see if i like your other videos too. Keep it up! I like this one at least!

[@ALR0808]

VSO - absolutely loved that! Thank you for sharing your knowledge :) Hi from the UK

[@Chihuahuauno1]

THIS IS JUST WHAT I WAS LOOKING FOR!!!!! I found you through 2 Set, and have LOVED/commented on other videos of yours. Real quick Sir, it sounds like you were saying, for a beginner-adult, who most likely is only ever going to be playing for myself/friends, if I spend around $600-800 (USD) I could get a “beginner” professionally set up violin that will sound nice/decent - is that correct? I figured I would have to spend more than that…so thanks so much for any clarification (on my end), and keep being your amazing self - Happy Holidays Olaf! ~Scot (USA) I remember trying to play a friends violin in orchestra, I was a Euphonium player playing Tenor clef-transposed Cello parts (don’t ask), lol, anyways, I WAS able to “scratch” out “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” with just a little practice - I have ALWAYS wanted to make a beautiful sound, so here I am all these years later!

[@lu0844]

Great video Olaf! How I wish I lived down the road to your studio 🙁 I got a Hofner (made in China) fixed it a little, got pirastro olive strings, Aubert bridge... But dunno, I dream of getting a Luthier made Violín one day...

[@sheenche392]

How many wigs do you have? LoL, by the way, this one looks perfect on you.

[@goldeneaspring9838]

I wish I could visit Australia and buy one of your violins Olaf

[@curtwuollet2912]

But, no matter what you can spend, get the best you can for that. I have found an extremely wide range of what $100 US will buy. From totally wretched, with plastic fingerboard and plywood table, to quite usable with spruce top, maple back and sides and ebony fittings. Strings and a little bridge cleanup and it plays well. Not pro level, but neither am I. That last part is what many forget.

[@radleyisidore1900]

I got a Mendini MV500, it was 200US. It sounds swell. I think it's pretty good for a beginner, only the strings I changed for Pirastro (the sound is quite warmer). I'm also thinking about buying some pirastro rosin, 'cause I don't like the one it came with, and a good bridge (the cheapest despiau I can find, I guess). See, I'm just trying to make sure the scratchy sounds doesn't come from the violin (so I can work on it). I don't know much about this, and since there are no luthiers around that I know of, I just try to do my best in finding information to have a proper start learning violin. Btw, thanks so much Olaf for all the information you're sharing with us. I promise I'll practice hard and get a good luthier's violin as soon as I can. Much love from Mexico!

[@Metal-Possum]

I work as a bicycle mechanic and have the EXACT same feelings when people come in with something they "bought cheap from XYZ" department store/online retailer etc. We use the acronym BSO - Bicycle Shaped Object, and sometimes the only problem is the "loose nut on top of the saddle" referring to the person who owns it. Sometimes I just have to tell them the truth, and if they walk away upset or offended, I can't do much about it. There is no winning with some of these people, especially if you had already given them plenty of advice to not buy one... (I call those people "askholes", because they usually ask for advice but ignore it in favour of a too-good-to-be-true price tag)

[@hanamiya8008]

Hey Olaf! I just rewatch the god pillar video you did with Twoset, I just gonna remind you to try that God Pillar thing-y on this 100AUD VSO monstrosity! Can't wait to see what happen

[@gabb5398]

"Good Cheap Violin" * intense sweating *

[@mmurola9859]

In my (little) experience the worst part on cheap violins is the strings and the overall setup. My first violins was very similar to this one and with a good set of strings and a DIY- setup I was able to make it playable. Of course I still had problems with the pegs slipping and seams splitting In the winter but I was able to play it and enjoy playing.

[@macwinter7101]

OMG, the way he carries the violin case haha. :D

[@GessparTheDk]

I'm very happy I had my teacher help me find a violin, i couldn't afford a ~700 USD violin on the get go, but he recommended a ~200 range one. It's far from perfect, but as far as I can tell it's not holding me back yet. Hopefully I can upgrade to a proper quality one soon, although I unfortunately don't live near any luthiers

[@MethiasZa]

It would be great to find someone like you in my country. I've found out too often with many things cheap is often a costly mistake.

[@JoaoVictor-hz4rm]

i was dreaming for you do this kind of video since the twoset bois made it, i since then wanted to hear the opinion of a professional luthier on the matter, so thank you Olaf!

[@rexwhitehead8346]

Try the YiTa Music channel on Ebay. I've bought a lot of violins from them at prices ranging from £50 to £1500. All are well made, well setup, and sound good. Sometimes their antiqued varnish is a bit extreme, or didn't work out as they hoped, but they publish good pictures of each instrument so you can avoid tasteless antiquing if you wish to. The varnish is real varnish, sometimes spirit, sometimes oil, sometimes something in between, but never plastic.I automatically replace the factory steel strings with Pirastro Tonicas, the same as Olaf had on his Vivace violin (this adds another £20 or £25 to the cost). My 11 year old granddaughter is currently playing a 1//2 sized YiTa T20 (top workshop grade) violin. All of her teachers have raved over it, with one saying it sounds, plays and responds better than her full-sized professional instrument. It is also loud.

[@MsShadX]

In my country there's this brand called sonata, i think it's kinda ok for 40$ compared to what i see on these KZbin videos. Yes it takes forever to tune, pegs are all wrong and yes the bridge makes it a bit hard to play the A string....but i am getting better at it. The original strings were unplayable so i got some d'addario debut on it, they made a huge difference.

[@ShelbyDevaud]

YES! I've been waiting for this, so excited.

[@Jamesvandaele]

Ok. Well luthier... I think we all want to see you make the $100 play beautifully. Replace the sound post refinish, new fingerboard, etc etc. Sounds like a 10 part series to me...:)

[@AskOlaftheViolinmaker]

Thanks... It's in the works... should be live next Monday... Only a single episode though.

[@Jamesvandaele]

@@AskOlaftheViolinmaker Can't wait.

[@dianawilson13]

I feel so seen right now. ;) I would say 'attacked' but, I did the right thing and got myself a good violin. Unfortunately, it's sitting sadly at some port, waiting for the Coronies to wear off or something. I want my instrument! Woe! (And, I may have purchased from Olaf, I have to say that the customer service has been wonderful and even a follow-up email to check on how the wait was going. )

[@oystersnag]

10/10 acting. Great video Olaf!

[@yosoybrianymimujertambien]

Excuse my english. I bought in a journey in Turkey a violin with the bow, the box to transport it, the strings and the rossin for 20 euros. It's sound is indescriptible.

[@MsDrientje]

Dude, the beginning is comedy gold. 😄

[@islab1318]

Omg that G changes pitch more than me while whistling

[@arvarat]

For a New violin it is ok to not sound at first because you have to aply rosin on the bow This happent to my New violin after I aply rosin it sounds great

[@mickaaelnatividade850]

Awesome video! Great job Olaf!

[@influennzapyloric4073]

First video I saw, I subscribed immediately! Love the skit and the information!

[@violinist_paris]

haha, funny video dear! thans for this unboxing and show us the cheaper one! i need a violin of yours! my respects! I am violinist🎻

[@foxjadesky0519]

Ow, my first time to watch live with this channel 😊

[@gergelyradics7165]

I love your acting! It's so much fun to watch! :D

[@jeremya.9709]

3:43 That probably what my teacher felt when I brought my cheap guitar at the first lesson. He's just "nope, I'll give you one of mine... you can even take it home just don't bring this shit here anymore". My teacher also said that before buying an instrument it's better to learn it first a little because after some practise you'll understand not just which instruments are good but also which instruments are good FOR YOU YOURSELF.

[@noobdapescasub]

I have been playing a 70 dollar violin for 3 years now, I'm looking into luthiers to get a good one! with my violin at the moment I only produce sound, with a better violin I'll produce music for sure! this video is 100% realm I feel all this struggles every time I play, I can not way to get a new one!

[@alexichabot9051]

This channel is a gem! I only watched a few videos and I’m already a fan. Also is there a reason why the strings on a violon are so high of the fingerboard? I play electric guitar and usually very virtuosic players who play very fast tend to have their strings very close to the fingerboard which is something I haven’t noticed violinists do.

[@AlexRiversMusic]

Facts

[@RasuineA]

For those who don't know, Ray Chen also reviewed a similar violin last week and found that the G string also had the exact same issue. Ray Chen is a world class soloist, so it's pretty interesting to see how one of the best violin players in the world does on this instrument. But even then there's wonkyness no amount of skill can compensate for. You can see that part here kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4e5n3x4mtR3idk

[@theredstonenetworkthrcep8036]

Well, I'm in Thailand and I do play the violin intermediately, I bought my violin for 60$ for Thailand it's like so good compared to an Amazon violin. Got me pretty far tho some nel cor theme and sth like that. (It's an online shop. But I actually went to their shop and bought it)

[@mostdistortion]

I've experienced seems things, I can take a "Crapy Violin 60 usd" and make a decent practice without prejudice if f holes are ugly, if bridge, if sound post have a sad emoji on it etc. Students practice first and you don't need a Ferrari to make it

[@sutapatputnoi]

In Thailand I think instruments are kinda cheap. You can find good instruments with low budget.

[@randomvielleuse527]

I've been through this exact same experience in the hurdy gurdy world, only the HSOs (hurdy gurdy shaped objects) can run into the thousands and still be crap. SUPER upsetting. :(