9 Best Violas 2025 in the United States

The Mendini by Cecilio 16-Inch MA250 Varnish Solid Wood Viola is an attractive option for beginners and intermediate players. Its 16-inch size is suitable for adults and taller teenagers. The hand-carved solid spruce top and maple back and sides indicate good wood quality, contributing to a warm and resonant sound. The natural varnish finish adds to its aesthetic appeal.

The maple fingerboard, pegs, and chin rest, along with the alloy tailpiece equipped with four integrated fine tuners, ensure decent durability and ease of tuning. The included accessories such as a lightweight hard case, Brazilwood bow with unbleached Mongolian horsehair, rosin, and bridge are useful additions, making this a convenient all-in-one package for new players.

The sound quality, while adequate for beginners, may not meet the expectations of advanced players or those with professional aspirations. The craftsmanship, though solid, might lack the refinement found in higher-end violas. Additionally, some users may find the strings and initial setup require adjustments for optimal performance. Despite these drawbacks, the Mendini by Cecilio MA250 remains a favored entry-level viola due to its reasonable price, comprehensive accessory bundle, and solid construction.

The Mendini 16-Inch MA350 Satin Antique Viola is a solid choice for beginners and intermediate players looking for a budget-friendly option. One of its standout features is the hand-carved solid spruce top paired with a maple back and sides, which contributes to a warm, resonant sound that many users appreciate. The size of 16 inches makes it suitable for a range of players, especially younger musicians or those with smaller hands. Additionally, it includes essential accessories like a lightweight hard case, a Brazilwood bow with genuine horsehair, rosin, and a bridge, making it a complete package for someone just starting out.

In terms of craftsmanship, the viola’s construction reflects reasonable quality for its price point, with a satin antique finish that is visually appealing. The maple fingerboard, pegs, and chin rest further enhance its durability.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The alloy steel strings, while adequate for beginners, may not provide the same depth of tone as higher-quality gut or synthetic strings, which more advanced players often prefer. Some users have noted that the setup may need adjustments, such as tuning or bridge placement, before achieving optimal playability.

The D Z Strad Viola model 400 is a 15.5-inch handmade instrument that showcases exceptional craftsmanship. One of its standout features is the use of high-quality tonewoods, including a solid, hand-carved spruce top and beautifully flamed maple back and sides. This careful selection of materials typically results in a rich and warm sound, ideal for both professional musicians and dedicated students. The setup by skilled luthiers, with a Rock Maple bridge and Helicore strings, further enhances playability and tone quality, providing a solid foundation for performance.

The craftsmanship is truly impressive, as it is 100% handmade and hand-oil varnished, ensuring that each viola is unique and tailored for optimal sound production. The inclusion of ebony fittings, such as heart-shaped pegs and a chinrest, adds to its aesthetic appeal and durability. Additionally, the outfit package includes essential accessories like a case, multiple bows, a shoulder rest, and rosin, making it a comprehensive choice for musicians who need everything to start playing right away.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The price point of handmade violas can be high, and while the quality justifies the cost, it may not be accessible for beginners or those on a budget. With a weight of 12.5 pounds, it may also feel a bit heavy for some players, especially during long practice sessions or performances. This viola is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate fine craftsmanship and are ready to invest in a high-quality instrument. If you're looking for a viola that delivers on sound quality and aesthetics while providing a complete package for music making, the D Z Strad Viola model 400 could be an excellent choice.