The Stentor 1 violin (model 1400) sits between the Stentor Student (model 1018) and the Stentor 2 violin (model 1500). So what is the difference between them all? They all look roughly the same bar the colour of the case?

Lets start with the Stentor Student violin. Unlike many entry level violins which are pressed timber, this is still made from solid tonewoods. The pegs and fingerboard are a hardwood which have been blackened to give the appearance of ebony. The tailpiece is plastic with integral adjusters.

Taking a step up, the Stentor 1 has a better built case and a better bow. The pegs are of a high quality Pau Rosa and the tailpiece of a composite material. The front is carved spruce and the back and sides of carved maple.

The Stentor II is the first in the range to have all ebony fittings including the fingerboard, chinrest and pegs. The strings are a branded string, a definite upgrade on the Stentor 1, and the bow is also improved with a full mounted frog.

These all appear to be small differences between the three models but every small change in the construction of the instrument adds not only to the longevity and overall quality of the instrument but also to the sound which is ultimately what its all about. That’s why the Stentor 2 violin is still the violin of choice for many teachers and schools worldwide!