Violas

Buyer's Guide for Violas on eBay

If you are shopping for your first viola, if you are an expert violist looking for your next performance viola, or you are a seasoned collector looking for a vintage or rare instrument, there are many violas for sale on eBay. Here are the main things you should know before buying a used, pre-owned, or new viola on eBay.

If you are purchasing a viola for a student who only plans to play the instrument for school, a student model may be the right choice. If you plan to only play the viola occasionally or you are new to playing musical instruments, a student viola is an inexpensive investment to make while giving you all the functionality and enjoyment of a viola.

If you plan to play the viola in public, professionally, or in a collegiate environment, consider a professional one. If you plan to play the viola on a regular basis with aspirations to improve significantly as a violist, a professional viola may be the choice for you. This type of viola is worthwhile if you have professional aspirations or a significant interest in the viola.

There are many violas that date back decades, each one with its own unique sound and story. If you are a collector, you can purchase antique violas as restoration projects or financial investments. If you play professionally, you may purchase vintage violas to add a unique sound to your playing style. If you are a collector looking for a used viola as an investment, look for a viola with a certified appraisal or certified repair shop receipt. Violas that have been professionally restored are often worth as much as an original in mint condition.

If you want to purchase a used viola for sale for performing, its aesthetic condition may not matter to you as much as its overall sound and structural condition. Buying a used viola may save you money in the long run if you know what to look for. Find out if the viola has had any repairs or modifications made to it that may affect the overall sound. Check the viola's item description for specific details on the instrument's history. Used violas each have their own timbre of sound thanks to the wood aging over time. There is no viola for sale too old to produce a unique sound.

Violas are made from several types of wood. The most common types of wood used to make violas are spruce and maple. Willow and ebony are used for different parts of the instrument as well.