The Sonix student violin is designed for beginners on a budget: reliable, easy to play, and representing for money. It's an ideal purchase for young musicians working through the first few grades and hoping to join their school orchestra.

Bridges are not fixed to the violin but kept in place under the pressure of the strings' tension - this is true of all bowed stringed instruments and something to be aware of if you are just starting.

The strings will probably need tuning straight away. The main tuning pegs are nicely fitted and operate smoothly, and fine tuning is made easier by 4 adjustors (one for each string) built into the fitted tail piece. Tuning will require practice but once you've got the hang of it this instrument will hold its tuning well - an important consideration when buying your first violin.

• Excellent value violin, perfect for beginners
• Laminated maple back and sides with spruce top
• Wood fingerboard, chin rest and pegs
• Composite tail piece with integral fine tuners
• Spirit varnish
• Outfit includes plush lined case, quality wooden bow, and rosin block