Sabastian By Knilling 13" Viola Factory Adjusted With Case & Horsehair Bow

The Sebastian by Knilling 13" Viola is a student-level instrument that is typically sold as a complete outfit, including a case and a bow. The 13" size is a common choice for younger students, typically aged 9-11, who are not yet large enough for a 14" or larger viola. It is designed to be a durable and playable instrument with the added benefit of a professional setup.

Here is a detailed breakdown of its key features:

Core Concept & Construction

• Student/Beginner Level: This viola is specifically crafted for students and those new to the instrument. It aims to provide a reliable and functional instrument without a high price tag.

• Solid Hand-Carved Woods: The viola features a solid hand-carved spruce top and a solid, flamed maple back and sides. This solid wood construction is a significant feature at this price point, as it allows for better resonance and a more developed tone compared to laminated (plywood) instruments. The flame on the maple is a visually appealing and desirable feature.

• Knilling "Factory Adjusted": This is a crucial feature that sets the instrument apart from many other violas in this price range. A "factory adjusted" viola has undergone a professional setup in the USA, ensuring that the bridge is properly shaped, the nut is cut correctly, and the instrument is ready to play right out of the box. This is essential for playability and sound.

• Fittings: The viola is usually fitted with an ebony fingerboard, nut, and pegs. Ebony is a very hard and durable wood, which is ideal for these parts as it resists wear from the strings. The tailpiece is a composite material, often with four built-in fine tuners, which makes it much easier for a beginner to tune the viola accurately.

• Strings: The viola is commonly equipped with D'Addario Prelude steel core strings. These are a popular choice for student instruments as they are durable and produce a clear, bright sound.

Included Outfit

• Case: The outfit comes with a shaped case, which is typically a lightweight polyfoam or hardshell design. The case has a zippered cover and is designed to protect the instrument from bumps and scrapes during transport.

• Bow: A bow with genuine horsehair is included. It is often a Brazilwood bow, which is a common and durable material for a student bow.

• Rosin: A small cake of rosin is also included. Rosin is an essential accessory for a string instrument as it is applied to the bow hair to create the friction needed to produce a sound from the strings.

Overall Impression

The Sebastian by Knilling 13" Viola is a well-regarded choice for:

• Beginner Students: The combination of solid woods, a professional setup, and the fine tuners makes it a more enjoyable and playable instrument than many other budget options.

• Budget-Conscious Players: It provides a good balance of quality and affordability, making it accessible for those just starting out.

• Anyone looking for a complete, ready-to-play package: The included case, bow, and rosin mean you have everything you need to start playing right away with the added confidence of a professional setup.