When parents begin shopping for their child’s first violin, viola, cello, or bass, one of the most common questions they ask is whether they should buy new or used. On the surface, it sounds like a straightforward comparison, but in the world of orchestral string instruments, the question is often misunderstood.
At Von’s Violin Shop, we approach this question a little differently, because there is no such thing as “used” instruments in the way most people think of them. Understanding that distinction makes it much easier to choose the right instrument for a student.
For a young student, we always suggest they rent an instrument from our sister store Northland Violins. Where they have an entire article explaining why renting is probably the better option.
Why “Used” Is the Wrong Word for Violins
In many industries, “used” simply means something was owned before. In orchestral strings, that label doesn’t tell you anything useful about quality.
Von’s Violin Shop does not sell used instruments. What we do sell are fine instruments, some of which may have been owned previously and some of which may be decades or even hundreds of years old. These instruments are not discounted alternatives to new instruments. They are high-quality, individually crafted instruments that have already proven their durability and tonal character over time.
Because of that, instruments that have been previously owned and are now part of Von’s inventory are typically more expensive, not less. They are offered because of their sound, craftsmanship, and musical value, not because they are a bargain option for beginners.
For families shopping for a student’s first instrument, that distinction matters.
What “New” Usually Means for Student Instruments
When parents talk about buying a “new” instrument for a beginner, they are almost always referring to a student instrument. Student instruments are factory produced rather than individually handcrafted, and that factory production is what allows them to be offered at an affordable price.
It’s important to be clear about what that does and does not mean.
Student instruments are the lowest quality tier of instrument that Von’s Violin Shop sells, but they are still far higher in quality than the low-priced instruments commonly found online or in other music stores. They are built to consistent standards, selected carefully, and professionally set up so that they function the way a real orchestral instrument should.
This is a crucial point for parents to understand. A student instrument from Von’s violin shop is not comparable to the ultra-cheap instruments marketed as “beginner violins” elsewhere. Those instruments often look the part but fail to perform in ways that matter for learning.
Why Quality Matters More Than “New vs. Old”
For a student, the most important question is not whether an instrument is new or previously owned. The most important question is whether the instrument works.
A good student instrument should produce a clear, consistent sound without excessive effort. It should respond predictably to the bow, allowing the student to control volume and articulation. The fingerboard should be comfortable and correctly shaped so that hand position and intonation develop naturally. The instrument should stay in tune and feel stable during practice.
These qualities have far more impact on a student’s progress than whether the varnish is brand new.
A poorly made instrument can slow learning, create frustration, and even lead students to believe they are “bad at music” when the real problem is the equipment. A well-made student instrument, properly set up, allows the student to focus on learning rather than compensating for flaws.
Why Student Instruments Are Often the Right Choice
For most families, a student instrument is the right place to start. Student instruments are designed to meet beginners where they are, offering reliability, durability, and playability at a price that makes sense for early study.
At Von’s Violin Shop, student instruments represent the best quality available at their price point. They are chosen specifically because they provide far better sound and response than the low-quality alternatives parents often encounter for similar prices elsewhere.
This is why we emphasize value rather than novelty. A student instrument that functions correctly will do far more for a child’s musical development than a cheaper instrument that simply happens to be “new.”
When Fine Instruments Enter the Conversation
Fine instruments, including those that may have been previously owned, are not typically first instruments for young beginners. They are more expensive because they are individually crafted and offer greater tonal complexity and responsiveness.
These instruments are intended for players who have developed enough technique to benefit from those qualities. For a beginner, that additional nuance often goes unused, while the cost provides no practical advantage at an early stage.
This is why parents should not think of fine instruments as an alternative to student instruments, but as something that comes later, if and when a student’s needs grow.
The Role of Budget, Without Pressure
Budget does matter, but it should come after playability and fit. The goal is not to buy the most expensive instrument possible, nor is it to find the cheapest option available. The goal is to find the right instrument for the student, one that supports learning and fits comfortably within the family’s means.
At Von’s Violin Shop, we focus on helping families understand what they are paying for and why. There is no pressure to move beyond what makes sense for a beginner, and no assumption that a more expensive instrument is automatically better or worse for a student.
Final Thoughts
When parents ask whether they should buy new or used, what they are really asking is whether they are making a smart choice for their child. The answer is not about age or ownership history. It is about quality, setup, response, and suitability for a beginner.
Von’s Violin Shop does not sell used instruments. We sell student instruments designed for beginners and fine instruments intended for advanced players. For most students, a well-chosen student instrument is the correct and realistic starting point.
If you’re unsure what makes sense for your child, or if you’d like to hear and feel the difference between instruments, we’re happy to help. Contact us, call, or come in with your questions. Our goal is simply to give you the information you need to make a confident decision, without pressure or sales tactics.
That’s how instrument buying should work.