NS Design NXT5a-VN-BK-F Violin Fretted

Great 5 stringed, fretted violin!

I was looking for a 5 stringed, fretted electric violin that can sound accoustic as well. This one is the best fit for my needs. It looks a bit strange, but feels just like a regular violin when you play it. Sound quality is lovely especially if you put some post processing on it. Frets are very useful for intonation, while still allowing vibrato. I had no issues switching back and forth between my regular acoustic violin and this one. Just don't push your strings too hard, or you'll hurt your fingers and wear out your strings. Speaking of strings, replacing them is rather annoying; but once they're installed, tuning is great. The shoulder rest is quite comfortable and adjustable, but slightly annoying to take on or off.

One word summary: "Magnificient"

High quality, immaculate build and finish, great look and feel, unique appearance.Frets are accurate, the tuning mechanism works fine.

It is paired with a Marshall AS50D plus a Boss ME-80, and yes, it is able to drive both directly, without the need of a preamplifier.

It produces a warm, full bodied sound.

All in all, a joy to play, and a great value for the money.