10 Best Ergonomic Violas & Their Reviews For 2021
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Have you ever wanted to start playing the viola or do you want to change your old one into a brand new ergonomic viola?
There’s no need to worry as there is a wide range for you to pick from.
Ranging from different models to all types of sizes, strings, cases, colors, and other features, violas can be delivered straight to your door.
Slightly bigger than violins, violas can be the perfect thing for those who like engaging with string instruments and extracting deeper sounds.
Even the neediest ones should find what that ergonomic viola they are looking for.
Table of Contents
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Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
10 Best Ergonomic Violas Reviewed
Finally, let’s take a look at the products available for you!
1. Cecilio CVA-400 14-inch viola from solid wood
- Size 14 inch viola, solid hand-carved spruce top, flamed maple back & sides, beautiful inlaid purfling & finish
- Maple fingerboard, boxwood pegs, chinrest, and tailpiece with 4 detachable nickel plated fine tuners
- Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair
- Includes: lightweight hard case, quality rosin cake, bridge, & extra set of strings
- 1 Year Warranty Against Manufacturer's Defects
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
We have noticed that this medium-sized viola has received attention from many instrument lovers lately.
There are more than one or two reasons why people would choose this solid wood viola.
First of all, the entire package includes various additional objects such as a comfy and simple-to-hold case where you can put your instrument and carry it safely.
Also, the set holds an additional package of strings just in case something happens to your old ones and you have to change them.
It also comes with a rosin cake that has been made with full quality, and a bridge.
This 14-inch and 4.5 pounds viola come in natural wood color where both sides and the back are made from maple that has been flamed.
We definitely have to mention its inlaid purfling and finish that are eye-catching and the spruce top that is carved by human hand and made from firm material.
You will also find a tailpiece with fine tuners that are covered in nickel and can be detached from the instrument whenever you want.
In addition to that are pegs that are constructed from boxwood, and a comfortable chinrest.
A bonus for REAL material lovers is that the entire viola package comes with a bow that is not only made from brazilwood but also includes real Mongolian horsehair that has not lost its natural colors.
Finally, if you find any types of defects on your instrument that probably occurred while manufacturing, you can easily fix the problem by using the warranty that is offered for each client for one year.
Pros & Benefits:
- An additional set of strings
- Bow with real Mongolian horsehair
- Flamed maple used to style both sides and the back of the instrument
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2. Varnished solid wood 15-inch Viola by Mendini
- Size 15" natural varnish viola
- Hand-carved solid spruce top with maple back & sides
- Maple fingerboard, pegs, and chin rest with an alloy tailpiece with four integrated fine tuners
- Includes: lightweight hard case, a Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair, rosin, and bridge
- 1 Year Warranty Against Manufacturer's Defects
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is another popular but less fancy variant from the viola family that you should consider getting introduced to.
People who are looking for simplicity and comfort should be happy with this purchase.
A little bit bigger and almost the same weight, this 15-inch and 4.59 pounds viola holds a warranty for one year in case any manufactured defects are found when the product reaches the customer’s hands.
Even though such types of problems are not very common, this way you are always sure that you will have a quality-full instrument provided to you!
The body of the viola is in medium brown color where the sides and the back of the instrument are constructed from maple and the hard spruce top is carved.
Continuously, the product comes with four fine tuners that are combined within the viola, a simple bridge, and rosin, ordinary pegs.
For those who are hungry for a smooth touch, we have good news – the fingerboard is created from natural maple and also is varnished!
The product also includes equipment such as a brazilwood-based bow that contains natural hair from Mongolian horses.
The horsehair is not touched by even a drop of bleach so it has saved its natural colors and can be pleasant to an observant eye.
All nature lovers should be pleased with the fact that natural materials are included in both the instrument itself and its tools.
The added equipment is also a very convenient thing for starter players as they get all the needed tools at once and don’t have to scroll to find separate ones.
One more thing that we absolutely have to mention is the solid case where you can carry your viola safely.
It’s very light so you won’t have any difficulties if you need to walk a long distance until you reach your music school(if you’re a student).
Also, the hard material of the case is a big plus for security purposes so that just in case you accidentally drop your instrument with the bag, less damage is likely to occur.
Pros & Benefits:
- Protective instrument case that is easy to carry
- Smooth feeling of the maple-based and varnished surface
- Mongolian horsehair in real colors is used for the bow
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3. Cecilio CVA-400 15-inch viola including D'Addario Prelude strings
- Size 15 inch viola, solid hand-carved spruce top, flamed maple back & sides, beautiful inlaid purfling & finish
- Strung with D'Addario Prelude Strings (Note: Does not include extra set of strings.)
- Maple fingerboard, boxwood pegs, chinrest, and tailpiece with 4 detachable nickel plated fine tuners
- Includes: Cecilio chromatic tuner, a lightweight hard case, a Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine Mongolian...
- 1 Year Warranty Against Manufacturer's Defects
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This 15-inch string instrument is a great option for musicians who like playing with original D’Addario Prelude strings.
Even though the package does not come with an extra set, you shouldn’t worry as these strings are created with perfect quality and should serve you long.
Another interesting thing about this product is that it includes a chromatic tuner with a metronome thanks to which you can find out the pitch of the notes you are playing.
All other components are everything that makes a viola work as intended.
Four nickel-covered fine tuners that can be detached from the instrument itself, a comfortable chin rest that is in light-brown color, a bridge, standard rosin, pegs that are made from boxwood, a bow that is created from real material (Mongolian horsehair), and two AAA batteries.
Bonus: you can put everything in a simple black light case and easily carry the equipment where needed.
Nevertheless, the case comes with detachable straps that allow you to reduce the load that comes from the 5.8 pounds weight of the instrument.
If you are a person of style, you supposedly pay at least some attention to detail.
You shouldn’t be disappointed by the appearance of this viola as its fingerboard is made from real maple and has a solid black color.
Also, the back surface and both sides of the viola are built from real maple that has been put under a flame to give a rich color to it.
Talking about the inlaid purfling and the finish, both of them are really gorgeous and fully completed.
Aside from the good look and the full package of this product, don’t forget about the guaranteed warranty that is available for one year when you get your product.
Pros & Benefits:
- Real quality-full D’Addario Prelude strings
- Chromatic tuner included
- One-year warranty if any defects due to manufacturing errors occur
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4. D Z Strad 16.5-inch viola (Model 101)
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This particular ergonomic viola is a quite big one (16.5 inches) compared to the others that we have already described.
However, its weight size (5.34 pounds) is similar to the previously mentioned ones.
People that expect to really feel something in their hands should be happy with the bigger size.
This Model 101 instrument comes with a solid steel core that is long-lasting and the owner will be able to use it perfectly for a longer period of time.
Nevertheless, the viola has its back made from maple and a hand-carved spruce top that is endurable.
Its smooth surface is a feeling pleasurable for the hand while the warm brown color is attractive to the eye.
When looking at the product, you also see four black tuners that are permanently connected to the viola and help the musician to indicate pitches.
Furthermore, there is the tailpiece in black color and style by Wittner that provides a connection between the strings and the end of the instrument.
Natural light rosin, comfy shoulder rest, and a bow made from brazilwood are also pieces that come with the product.
Everything perfectly fits in the original case that comes in blue and black colors and has some additional pockets for smaller pieces of the equipment.
However, if you prefer something more fancy and modern, you should try looking at the violas that we listed above as they might suit your needs better.
Pros & Benefits:
- The warm color and smooth surface makes the instrument look more attractive
- Solid steel core that is very strong
- Comfy case with extra pockets included
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5. DZ Strad 15-inch viola (Model 101)
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This model is almost identical to the previously reviewed ones.
Just that this time, the instrument is provided in medium size – 15 inches.
If you think that the 16.5-inch viola is a little too big for you, you can definitely consider getting this smaller one.
This DZ Strad viola comes in a package with additional components such as natural rosin, bow, strings, shoulder rest, and a blue-black case where all objects and the instrument itself can be kept safely and in order.
The surface of the product is also wooden, smooth, varnished, and made from high-quality materials.
The warm appearance of the viola might induce soft feelings and make the playing process more enjoyable and from the heart.
However, if you are looking for a slightly bigger instrument but not as big as 16.5 inches, you should go through the following products that are the same just in size 15.5.
Pros & Benefits:
- A case for protection and storing included
- High-quality materials used for the body
- Warm appearance can inspire musicians
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6. D Z Strad 15.5-inch viola (Model 101)
- The outfit include a viola case, Rosin, Shoulder rest and Brazilwood Viola Bow
- Carved top viola with high gloss lacquer finish, hand-adjusted
- Crafted with traditional Spruce top, lightly figured maple back and sides, and Ebony fingerboard
- Beautiful and dependable Viola 15.5 " Setup with Wittner-style tailpiece with four built-in fine tuners.
- Warm and round tone, playability, hand-feel and consistency will keep you motivated
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This viola and the previous two ones can be called “the perfect trio” due to their identical features, similar components added but different sizes.
This time we are suggesting trying a 15.5-inch viola if you are looking for an in-between.
The same strong varnished wooden service that is dried in specific rooms to become solid is the main part of the body that is colored in a warm brown tone.
Furthermore, we have the black tailpiece that is holding all of the strings attached to the instrument.
However, if this instrument and its set aren’t exactly what you are looking for, don’t worry, more options are waiting for you.
But if the size, materials, and tools are all that you need, give this instrument a try.
Pros & Benefits:
- Strong wooden body
- Attractive and smooth surface
- Bonus: a case for carrying the equipment
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7. 16-inch acoustic and minimalistic style viola from natural wood
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This 16-inch instrument will definitely catch your eye if you are looking for a simplistic and modern design.
Its varnished, glossy, and smooth body comes in a rich black color that gives the viola a classy look when most products of these types are colored in a medium brown.
So, it’s not only beautiful but also strong.
The viola is completely made from natural basswood and is more resistant to usual cracks that happen through time.
This way you will be sure that your product stays at its best state and doesn’t deform for a longer period of time.
Nevertheless, the smooth makeup of the corps allows the player to create steady vibration and extract quick notes.
The product itself includes all necessary parts for it to work as needed – the tailpiece, strings, four tuners, chinrest, pegs.
Parts such as the pegs and chinrest are constructed from blacked wood while the fingerboard of the instrument is made from aluminum alloy.
The set also consists of equipment such as a bow, rosin, and a classy-looking case that is black on the outside and cream color on the inside.
However, the best part of purchasing the instrument is that it comes with original and simple functions that can be easily understandable even for a person who is a beginner in music.
If you are looking for a string instrument suitable for starters with touches of a minimalistic design and longer resistance to natural deformation, this product is definitely for you.
Pros & Benefits:
- Easy functions suitable for beginners
- A strong wooden body prevents the instrument from early deformation
- Black surface with small highlights is attractive to minimalism lovers
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8. Medium-sized Patiti viola (full set)
- This is a very beautiful 14'' size upgrade student viola starter kit that comes complete with one (1) Brazilwood...
- This viola is made of finest solid maple wood, set up and ready to play. This viola has beautiful inlaid purfling,...
- Bow has double pearl eye, genuine unbleached Mongolian horsehair. Straight and well balanced.
- Lightweight triangular case has rain proof canvas exterior and shoulder straps with sheet music pocket and...
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Customers who are looking for a middle ground between different sizes of violas should take a look at this 14-inch and 3.14 pounds Patiti product.
Probably the best thing about this set is that it’s completely suitable for those who do not yet have experience in playing such an instrument.
Another thing worth noting is the modern instrument case that comes together with the entire package.
It’s colored in simple black, has an added blanket, extra pockets for additional equipment, and even two places where you can hold your bow.
Also, the case is very comfortable to carry as it has little weight and includes shoulder straps.
Nevertheless, you should not worry if you run into some rain while carrying your instrument outside as the case is made waterproof.
The instrument comes with a black tailpiece that includes four standard integrated fine tuners, four steel strings, a simple and comfortable chinrest that is manufactured from ebony wood, yellow rosin cake.
What is special about the bow is that it’s made from brazilwood, includes two pearl eyes, natural color Mongolian horsehair.
The bow is completely managed and well-done which allows the tool to fulfill its function and should satisfy the player.
If you are looking for a warm, wooden, and smooth viola surface, you should be happy with the appearance of this product.
A bonus for the nice look also would be the sides of the instrument that are decorated with carved inlaid purfling.
The item shouldn’t come with any defects but if something similar occurs, don’t forget to use all of the opportunities that you get with a free one-year warranty.
If you take good care of the viola, gently clean it with soft wipes after playing to eliminate extra rosin and all dirt bits, it should serve you long.
Pros & Benefits:
- Waterproof instrument holder with additional places for other pieces of equipment
- It’s suitable for inexperienced players
- A fancy bow that includes natural horsehair
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9. 16-inch Cremona viola
- Every Cremona student viola comes with US-made Prelude strings, the educator's preferred strings for students
- Properly fitted Swiss-style ebony pegs and quality lightweight composite tailpiece with 4 smooth fine tuners for...
- Low profile Kaufman-style chinrest, oiled neck for better feel and well balanced bow for ease of playing
- Correct string height and string spacing for accurate finger positioning and intonation
- Ebony fittings, ebony fingerboard, hand carved solid spruce and solid maple body, lightweight construction means...
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is another product to look at while deciding which ergonomic viola is the best to buy.
There’s no need to rush, just take your time to explore all the necessary things.
We cannot skip the fact that even though the viola is 16 inches in size, it holds a weight of only 1.4 pounds.
Cremona has manufactured the instrument by including four D’Addario Prelude strings that are very popular in the USA.
The strings are made from steel and are adjusted perfectly so the user can correctly place his/her fingers and extract wanted sounds.
The fingerboard, pegs, and fitting are all made from ebony while the corps of the viola is natural maple wood that includes curves and hand carvings to make the product look more stylish and eye-catching.
Additional equipment such as the Kaufman-based chinrest, bow, rosin cake, and the four tuners on the tailpiece is made to ensure smooth playing.
However, if you are looking for a shoulder rest set, it doesn’t come within the package and you will have to get one separately.
One more thing to say.
As mentioned by the manufacturer, this viola should perfectly fit both starters and highly-experienced players.
So, you can get this product as your first string instrument and continue using it when you become an intermediate/expert.
Pros & Benefits:
- Lightweight instrument
- Suitable for both beginners and experts
- Includes quality D’Addario Prelude steel strings
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10. 16-inch D Z Strad viola HANDMADE
- Warm and round tone, playability, hand-feel and consistency will keep you motivated
- 100% Handmade, 100% hand oil varnished
- A favorite among Suzuki and other private teachers Beautiful and dependable
- The outfit include a viola case, a carbon fiber viola bow, and a D Z Strad brazil wood viola bow
- Warm and round tone, playability, hand-feel and consistency will keep you motivated.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This viola is more expensive than the others that we have previously mentioned but the price is totally understandable because the entire product is made by human hand.
And it becomes more amazing when you learn something about its manufacturing process.
According to the manufacturer, these types of instruments are put to dry outside for 20 years.
Can you imagine that?
Afterward, the viola is taken inside and dried in a specific place to ensure that the wood stays solid over time and doesn’t change its size.
The body of the product is made from natural wood, including the back of the viola that consists of two maple wood pieces connected.
Also, the entire surface is thoroughly varnished by hand to create a smooth feel.
However, that is not it as this ergonomic viola definitely comes with additional required equipment that is useful for every player.
Once you open the box, you will discover a well-balanced D Z Strad Pernambuco viola bow and Pirastro Goldflex rosin cake.
Talking about the case, it’s a very comfortable and safe way to carry your instrument.
You will not have to hold the case in your hands all the time as the set comes with additional shoulder straps.
There also are a few sections where you can put all of your equipment and a blanket included.
The D Z Strad viola itself has four Helicore viola strings, a medium-brown comfy chinrest, tuners, and four pegs.
As you can see, this viola is a special one as it’s completely handmade which gives the product a rich look and feel.
If you are looking for something that is made not by machines but by humans and has a full set of high-quality equipment, consider scrolling through the description of this product more than once.
Pros & Benefits:
- Completely handmade
- High-quality tools included
- Strong wooden body
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Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a specific viola to buy, there is a fairly generous range to pick from.
You don’t have to get dressed and jump in your car to get your wanted product as all is provided for you directly on the Internet!
Here you can find violas in different sizes, weights, types, and styles of equipment, colors, designs, manufactured by different owners, and even handmade.
We believe that your best choice is somewhere here, just take your time to find it!
If you have something to add, feel free to leave your note in the comment section below.
