Are you on the lookout for a new or second violin, but finding it difficult to choose the perfect model? Well, fret not because we have got you covered! With multiple choices available in the market, finding the best violin model that fits your budget and expectations can be a daunting task. But, compromising on quality is not an option when it comes to investing in a violin that lasts long and retains its excellence.
This is where Cremona violins come in. These violins are the epitome of high-quality wood, top-notch finishing, and flamed maples. Their exceptional features make them an ideal choice for violinists who want to develop their skills and own a violin that will last for years to come. So, rest assured that with a Cremona violin, you will not only get excellent value for your money but also the satisfaction of owning a superior quality instrument.
Top 10 Best Cremona Violins
Cremona violins are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and sound quality. Originating in the Italian city of Cremona, these violins have a unique and distinguished history. The Cremona violin makers have developed a technique that not only makes these violins look beautiful but also produces an enchanting sound. The Cremona violin-making technique was honed by legendary luthiers such as Stradivari, Guarneri, Vincenzo Rugeri, and Bergonzi, and today, Saga Musical Instruments continues to carry on this proud tradition.
Cremona violins are available in a variety of price ranges, colors, and sizes, catering to players of different skill levels. Most of them come complete with a case, bow, and rosin, making them a perfect choice for novice fiddlers. With over 40 years of experience, Saga Musical Instruments has built a reputation for producing high-quality Cremona violins that are both beautiful to look at and a joy to play. The top 10 Cremona violin reviews below will help you select the perfect violin to suit your needs and budget.
| Product | Rating |
|---|---|
| Cremona SV-75 | 4.1 |
| Cremona SV-100 | 4 |
| Cremona SV-130 | 4.2 |
| Cremona SV-150 | 4.3 |
| Cremona SV-175 | 4.2 |
| Cremona SV-225 | 4.3 |
| Cremona SV-500 | 4.3 |
| Cremona SV-600 | 3.5 |
| Cremona SV-1260 | 5 |
| Cremona SV-1400 | 4.8 |
1. Cremona SV-75
I highly recommend the Cremona SV-75 for young students who are just starting to learn the violin. As soon as we received the package, we were excited to see the variety of vibrant colors available.
We opted for the classic brown finish that showcased a beautiful, well-crafted spruce top with a fine wood grain.
One of the features that impressed us the most was the thoughtful attention to detail on the fingerboard and bridge height. This makes it easier for young players to adjust to the instrument and develop good technique. The included VP-71 bow was also of excellent quality, with the right balance and weight for a comfortable playing experience.
The violin outfit came with a protective case and rosin, which made it easy to transport and maintain the instrument. The hardwood chinrest and tailpiece provided a secure grip and comfortable resting spot for the chin. Overall, we were highly impressed with the Cremona SV-75 and believe it offers excellent value for money.
Features
- VP-71 bow
- Well-defined string height and spacing
Pros
- Low resonance, clear sound
- Highly useful violin set for youngsters
- Easy to tune
Cons
- You may want to replace the provided strings over time
- The rosin quality could have been better
2. Cremona SV-100
This outfit is perfect for professional violinists who want to upgrade their skills and take their music to the next level.
The violin is carefully crafted and comes in a ready-to-play state, so you don’t have to worry about fitting the strings or other tools. The fittings and wood alignments are already in place, and the outfit comes with everything you need, including a bow and widely-used strings.
One thing I appreciated about the SV-100 is its design. The violin is beautifully crafted, with an aesthetically pleasing appearance that catches the eye. The attention to detail is evident, from the carefully selected wood to the smooth finish.
But what really sets the SV-100 apart is its sound. The instrument produces a warm and rich tone that is perfect for any performance or recording. Whether you’re playing classical music or a more contemporary piece, the SV-100 can handle it all with ease.
Overall, I highly recommend the Cremona SV-100 violin outfit for anyone looking to upgrade their skills and take their music to the next level. It’s a high-quality instrument that is built to last and produce beautiful music for years to come.
Features
- Fully tuned
- Built to last long
- Appealing design
Pros
- Great for expert players
- Lightweight
- Easy to carry
Cons
- None found yet
3. Cremona SV-130
I must say that the Cremona SV-130 violin outfit is an excellent choice for any violinist looking for a top-quality instrument at an affordable price. We had the opportunity to try out this model, and we were thoroughly impressed with its features.
One of the standout features of this violin is its durable spruce top, which is resistant to cracks and cuts, making it a perfect choice for beginners who may be rough with their instrument. Additionally, the solid maple used for the bottom and sides of the violin gives it a beautiful and rich sound.
Another thing we loved about this violin is the ebony fittings, except for the tailpiece, which add to the violin’s overall durability and longevity. The oiled neck and Kaufman-style chinrest provide the necessary comfort, even during extended practice sessions.
Overall, the Cremona SV-130 violin outfit is an excellent investment for any violinist looking to develop their skills without breaking the bank. We highly recommend this model for both novice and intermediate violinists.
Features
- Four smooth tuners, allowing fast and simple tuning
- Oiled neck for reliable grip and comfort
- Sharp bow, enabling faster response
Pros
- All-in-one package
- High-quality strings
- Ebony fretwork on board
Cons
- It doesn’t come ready to play; you need to set up tuning pegs.
4. Cremona SV-150
I can attest that the Cremona SV-150 model is a fantastic choice for those looking for an affordable violin outfit that doesn’t skimp on quality. My experience using this violin has been nothing short of exceptional.
The craftsmanship of this violin is evident from the moment you pick it up. The tonewoods, ebony, and maple used in its construction are top-quality, and the attention to detail is impressive. But what really stands out is the sound. Once tuned properly, the Cremona SV-150 produces a beautiful, rich tone that is perfect for long practice sessions.
The outfit also includes a protective TL-33 case that is of superior quality. The positioning of the tailpiece, chinrest, and bridge is perfect, which not only gives an elegant look but also ensures that you get a pleasant sound from this violin.
Overall, the Cremona SV-150 is a simple yet feature-packed violin that provides excellent value for its price. I highly recommend it to any student or intermediate player looking for a quality instrument without breaking the bank.
Features
- High-end specifications
- Luxurious look
- Premium quality material
Pros
- Affordable
- Enhanced playability with ebony fingerboards
- Great for practicing purpose
Cons
- It may produce a bit scratchy sound initially
- Not suitable for professionals
5. Cremona SV-175
If you’re looking for an affordable yet high-quality violin outfit, the Cremona SV-175 should be at the top of your list. The use of selected tonewoods such as maple, spruce, and ebony gives it a beautiful and classy appearance.
One of the most notable features of the SV-175 is the well-aged maple at the sides and back of the violin, and the old yet solid spruce at the front. This combination of woods gives it a rich and warm tone. Additionally, the fittings are all made of ebony, except for the tailpiece.
What’s more, the SV-175 is durable, and you can tell from the construction that it is built to last. It is perfect for anyone on a tight budget but still wants a high-quality violin outfit. So, if you want a violin that delivers great value for your money, look no further than the Cremona SV-175.
Features
- Premium quality material
- Protective carry case (TL-33)
- Brazilwood bow with original Mongolian horsehair
Pros
- Highly durable
- Enhanced sound experience
- Better feel and comfort
Cons
- Lacks customization options
6. Cremona SV-225
The violin’s traditional design is something that always catches my eye, and this model did not disappoint. The beautiful spruce and maple construction not only gave it a striking appearance, but it also produced a rich, warm tone that resonated throughout the room.
One of the standout features of this violin is its fingerboard placement. I found it to be extremely comfortable and easy to play, which is crucial for intermediate students who are looking to improve their skills. The outfit comes complete with a hardshell case, bow, and rosin, so you have everything you need to get started.
What really impressed me about the Cremona SV-225 outfit is that it offers all the features of a high-end traditional violin at an affordable price. It’s an excellent option for students who want to upgrade their instrument without breaking the bank. Overall, I recommend this outfit to any intermediate or advanced student looking for a quality violin that won’t break the bank.
Features
- Antique finishing
- Previously set bridge
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Produces smooth and deep sound
- Enhanced tone quality
- Visually attractive
Cons
- Requires regular maintenance
- Bow quality can be improved
This product is currently unavailable.
7. Cremona SV-500
The attention to detail in the purfling and edgework is simply stunning, and the scroll is perfectly shaped. But this violin isn’t just aesthetically pleasing, it also boasts excellent functionality.
One thing I really appreciate about this violin is the lightweight composite tailpiece, which makes tuning a breeze. And the bright, transparent varnish really showcases the solid maple and spruce body, making it a feast for the eyes. Plus, the shading of the varnish gives it an old-school vibe, which I find to be quite charming.
Overall, I believe the Cremona SV-500 is a great choice for both beginner and advanced players who are looking to upgrade in quality or size. The attention to detail and overall craftsmanship make it a standout among other violins in its price range.
Features
- High-quality, handpicked tonewoods
- Lightweight, protective case
- Ebony fittings
Pros
- Rigid and comfortable body
- Quality tonewoods produce deep, full sounds
- An attractive piece with transparent varnish
Cons
- Pegs may slip off
- The quality of the bow can be improved
8. Cremona SV-600
This violin is an ideal choice for intermediate-level players who are looking for an upgrade. The sound quality and tone of this violin are outstanding, making it an excellent option for those who want to develop their skills and play at a more expert level.
What sets this violin apart from others is its stunning design. The tightly grained spruce top gives a beautiful orange-ish brown finish to the violin, while the flamed maple at the sides and back adds an artistic touch to its appearance. The fittings, including the tailpiece, are made from high-quality ebony, adding to the elegance of the instrument.
Playing the Cremona SV-600 is an absolute joy. It is incredibly smooth and easy to play, with a comfortable fingerboard that allows for effortless playing. Overall, if you are looking for an affordable yet high-quality violin that provides a better sound and feel, then the Cremona SV-600 is an excellent option to consider.
Features
- Elegantly shaped fingerboard
- Improved playability
- Handmade by expert luthiers
Pros
- Sturdy construction, making it durable and long-lasting
- Superior sound quality
Cons
- String quality is average
9. Cremona SV-1260
Let me tell you about my experience with the Cremona SV-1260 violin. From the moment I picked it up, I could tell that it was something special. It’s no surprise, considering the artisanship that went into its creation.
I was immediately impressed with the ease of tuning and height adjustments. Everything is fitted perfectly, so I didn’t have to worry about getting it set up just right. And with the included VP-14 fine tuner, it was even easier to make any necessary adjustments on the fly.
But what really sets this violin apart is the top-quality materials that were used in its construction. Not only does it make the instrument incredibly durable, but it also produces a soft, ear-pleasing tone that will impress even the most discerning listener.
Overall, the Cremona SV-1260 violin is a testament to Saga’s dedication to perfection, value, and excellent features. If you’re in the market for a high-quality violin that won’t break the bank, this is definitely a model you should consider.
Features
- Exact string height and spacing
- Overall, finishing is excellent
Pros
- Produces a beautiful, clear sound
- Lightweight construction
- Rich edgework
Cons
- Not suitable for long hours of use
- It may need time to tune
10. Cremona SV-1500
The first thing that caught my attention was its stylish appearance. The violin has a sleek and modern design that sets it apart from other models.
Upon further inspection, I found that the pegs were well-fitted and made using premium hardwood, providing a solid grip while tuning. The neck, made of solid maple, has an oiled finish that assures a comfortable grip during extended play sessions. The spacing and height of the strings are also well-adjusted, ensuring precise intonation and better finger position.
But that’s not all. The violin also boasts a warm and rich tone, making it an ideal choice for professional violinists looking for an instrument that can keep up with their advanced playing techniques. All in all, the Cremona SV-1500 violin outfit is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish, reliable, and high-quality instrument.
Features
- Perfect fittings
- Sturdy construction
Pros
- Perfect for solo performers
- Produces smooth and clear sound
Cons
- Expensive
- It needs so much work to tune the peg
Frequently Asked Questions
To be precise, “Outfit” means a set in this context. So, when you purchase a violin outfit, you should get all the essential tools and accessories. Most Cremona violin outfits include a standard package containing the violin, a bow, rosin, and a protective case.
Well, it entirely depends on the model and humidity shift. The wooden items mostly shrink when there is a considerable shift in humidity from moist to dry. In this scenario, the peg may sometimes slip off. However, you get high-quality, fine tuners with each Cremona violin. Therefore, you don’t need to play much with the pegs. Check our review of the best violin pegs if you want to buy pegs separately.
Most Cremona violins come in a ready-to-play condition. You don’t need to spend extra hours setting up your violin. The bridge and other parts will already be in place. Besides, the strings will also be previously tightened and tuned appropriately.
Our Top Pick
Among all these ten models, we would like to pick the Cremona SV-1500 as the top one. Even if the overall look of this violin outfit looks similar to others, it features many unique specifications. Firstly, the tailpiece and pegs of SV-1400 are of higher quality. It is lightweight, making it very comfortable to carry, hold, and play for long hours. The vibrant brownish shades on this violin are dark, enhancing the elegant, traditional look.
2 thoughts on “From Beginner to Pro: Our 10 Favorite Cremona Violins on the Market”
Why is the 175 not suitable for beginners? I’m asking as I’m looking for my first violin…
Thank you ,
Cathie
Yes, it is suitable for beginners.