Realist RV-5 violin

If you're in the market for a five string acoustic, the Realist RV-5 is an excellent choice; a purpose-built 5-string that's set up well and nearly as playable as your average four string. Bridge curvature is excellent, and string spacing at the bridge and nut are such that it hardly feels like you're playing a five string at all.

The Realist RV-5 has an open, clear tone, bigger than you'd expect under the ear, but lacking somewhat in projection. Its "unplugged" tone is good, however, this instrument really shines when you plug it into an amplifier. The amplified tone is well-balanced across the strings, rich and full, as you'd expect from an instrument equipped with the Realist® pickup. It's also quite resistant to feedback, making it a good choice for performers playing in louder bands.

This instrument should be especially popular with budget-minded educators. The RV-5 will allow you to double the violin and viola parts (and even the cello part, an octave higher) without switching instruments. If you need to play over the class, however, you'll either need to plug into an amplifier, or move up to the RV-5 Pro, which has much greater projection.

The Realist RV-5 has a tastefully antiqued body with a moderately-flamed maple back and spruce top. Price includes a dart-shaped hard shell case.