<p>The finish needs a little help on the back. If its from a local store, I suggest asking if you can borrow it for a week or two to try it out; most string shops will let you do this. Also, make sure you show it to your private and/or orchestra teacher and see what they think.</p>
<p>It’s not from a local store though. It’s from a person who put this up on Craig’s list.</p>
<p>Yah, the finish does seem a bit odd on the back.</p>
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<p>I also suppose that it COULD be a steal.</p>
<p>^ AHHH! You’re right.</p>
<p>Perhaps someone on here might be able to offer some advice after looking at the pics and description. Besides the finish being a bit weird, it looks like a typical 170 year old violin. I mean, one cannot expect the finish to be perfect after all these years…</p>
<p>Haven’t they made any meaningful advances in violin technology in the last 170 years?</p>
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<p>Mass production.</p>
<p>Also: electric violins</p>
<p>I wouldn’t do that. A lot of online sellers are frauds. Unless you’re able to actually hold it and play it, no.</p>
<p>if you can’t try it before you buy it, don’t get it. string instruments are one of those things that can look like a million bucks, but sound like crap when you play them. its not worth the risk</p>
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I was kidding! [sad5]</p>
<p>Bump. I guess I won’t buy then. Tempted to meet the guy and try the violin out at least.</p>
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Agreed. Kidding. I’m just biased because I’m a violinist-turned-violist.
My viola was made in 1893-ish? It has a really nice rich sound. I don’t think I would’ve gotten it if I didn’t see it in person and play it myself. It was a lot over $1300 I can tell you that.
It really depends on the quality. And also if there are any marks/scratches on the instrument?</p>
<p>Not really, there was a link posted with pics a few posts ago.</p>
<p>But I think I will just go to a violin shop and pay their overpriced prices.</p>
<p>^ Safest way. But does your tutor (assuming you have one) or anybody else you know associated to music know anyone who sells good violins? That’s what my teacher did with me to ensure I got a nice instrument. Although I ended up not getting any of them seeing as I quit violin.</p>
<p>I approve of ApatheticLove’s posts to this thread</p>
<p>!!! Play the violin before buying it!!! I think you should never buy a violin online. Just my opinion.
I’ve played the violin for about 11 years (not saying I’m a pro), and music is subjective. I recently tested two $4500 violins which weren’t better than my $1200 violin. I think you already know this, but the more you play a violin the better it sounds. So that old violin may be very good- but you don’t know that for sure.</p>
<p>Post this question on the Music Major forum, and you’ll get some better answers.</p>