[Viola] A Selection of Recommended Violas

When you search for "viola" online, all you seem to get are results for the viola flower. Despite being a somewhat lesser-known string instrument, the vee-ola is an essential part of orchestras and ensembles. In fact, the current Emperor of Japan plays this stringed instrument, and he even gave a performance at a banquet during his visit to Mongolia at the beginning of July.
In this article, I will introduce some of the most popular viola products. Let’s dive in!

1. PLAYTECH / PVA360 Viola 16-Inch

The most popular viola in the PLAYTECH series; the PVA360 16-inch model! It features an antique-style matte finish and produces a rich, mellow tone. It comes in two sizes: 16 inches and 15.5 inches. For those looking to upgrade, a bow set with the higher-grade PAB244 bow is also available separately.

PLAYTECH / PVA355 Viola 15.5-Inch

⇒ PLAYTECH / PVA355 Viola 15.5-Inch + PAB244 Bow Set

⇒ PLAYTECH / PVA360 Viola 16-Inch + PAB244 Bow Set

A higher-grade bow set, the PAB244, is also available as an add-on. For those who prioritize playability, this is a great set! The bow can make a huge difference in the sound!

2. PLAYTECH / PVA260 Viola 16-Inch

The value model in the PLAYTECH viola lineup is the PVA260 16-inch! This viola stands out with its beautiful gloss finish and it offers a well-balanced tone across lower and higher registers, resulting in a pleasant and harmonious sound. And, it’s available in both 16-inch and 15.5-inch sizes. Just like the other models, a PAB244 upgraded bow set is also available separately.

PLAYTECH / PVA255 Viola 15.5-Inch

⇒ PLAYTECH / PVA255 Viola 15.5-Inch + PAB244 Bow Set

⇒ PLAYTECH / PVA260 Viola 16-Inch + PAB244 Bow Set

Once again, the PAB244 bow set includes a higher-grade bow. For those who may want easier playability, this set is fantastic! You may even feel like you’re playing a different instrument. That’s how much of a difference the bow can make!

3. ENA / Outfit Viola Set 16-Inch (40.6 cm) No10A

The Ena Violin follows the traditional craftsmanship of the string instrument maker that once boasted the highest production volume in Japan. While production has since moved overseas, Ena remains a very beloved and trusted brand in the string instrument world.
In addition to the 16-inch model, a 15.5-inch (39.5 cm) size is also available:

⇒ ENA / Outfit Viola Set 15.5-Inch (39.5 cm) No10A

4. YAMAHA / Braviol Viola Set 16" (406 mm) VA7SG

The VA7SG viola from YAMAHA’s popular Braviol series is a handcrafted model built with meticulous attention to tonal quality, right down to the finest details. It features a beautiful shaded finish and the tailpiece is equipped with a built-in fine tuner made by Wittner, a trusted name in string instrument accessories. This model is available in two sizes: 16 inches and 15.5 inches.

⇒ YAMAHA / Braviol Viola Set 15.5" (395 mm) VA7SG15.5

5. Horatio Luca / A100 Viola 16-Inch (40.5 cm) – Made in Romania

Horatio Luca instruments are crafted in one of the largest workshops in Reghin, Romania, a region known for quality string instrument making. Among European-made instruments, this brand is renowned for offering exceptionally low prices for the quality.
Their violas feature a full, rounded arch and a glossy, vibrant varnish. With consistent quality and easy playability, it's a great choice for beginners. The tone is bright and responsive, making it a highly recommended first instrument.

⇒ Horatio Luca / A100 Viola 15.5-Inch (39.5 cm) – Made in Romania

I hope this article has helped spark an interest in the viola, whether you're discovering it for the first time or you're already an experienced player. The viola may not always be in the spotlight, but it’s an irreplaceable presence in the music world.