The Archive
Reporting, comparisons, and field notes — newest first.
gear-and-accessories
Two popular clip-on tuners go head-to-head for violinists and fiddlers. Here's what real owners report, where each one falls short, and which one deserves a
·12 min read
instruments-and-pickups
Thinking about adding a low C string to your electric fiddle setup? Here's what that fifth string actually costs you in tone, playability, and gear
·9 min read
gear-and-accessories
Two small purchases — a fingerboard guide sticker and a clip-on tuner — can make the difference between a beginner sticking with violin or quitting in
·11 min read
stage-and-practice-setup
Trying to decide between a wireless gooseneck microphone and a piezo pickup for your electric or acoustic violin? This guide names the tradeoffs, shows the
·10 min read
instruments-and-pickups
Not all budget electric violins are created equal. Here's exactly what changes — and what doesn't — as you move from $80 to $200, so you can spend confidently
·8 min read
gear-and-accessories
Not every shoulder rest fits a solid-body electric violin — and the wrong choice can cost you comfort, tone, and stage confidence. Here are six options ranked
·10 min read