Used Vintage Virzi Tone Producer 4/4 Violin with Case

The Virzi Tone Producer is a highly unique and historically significant violin accessory, not a violin model itself. The item you're asking about is a vintage violin that has a Virzi Tone Producer installed inside it. This makes it a very special and rare instrument.

The Virzi Tone Producer: A Historical Context

• Luthier: The device was invented by Italian luthier Fernando Sacconi and patented in 1922 by Joseph and John Virzi, brothers who were working in New York City.

• Concept: The Virzi Tone Producer is a small, thin, and often oval-shaped piece of spruce or other wood that is suspended inside the body of the violin, directly under the bridge. The idea was that this second vibrating plate would "smooth out" the sound, eliminate harsh overtones, and enhance the overall tonal quality and projection of the instrument.

• Association with Stradivari: The device is most famous for its association with the American luthier John D'Addario, who was commissioned by Joseph Virzi to install the device into a number of fine instruments, including some Stradivari violins. This was a controversial practice in the 1920s and 30s.

What It Means for a Violin

A "Vintage Virzi Tone Producer 4/4 Violin" is a violin (likely a copy of a classic Italian maker or a German/French instrument from the early 20th century) that had this device installed at some point in its history.

• The Sound: The effect of the Virzi Tone Producer on the sound of a violin is a matter of great debate among luthiers and players.

  • Proponents believe it does what its inventors claimed: adds warmth, smoothness, and a unique tonal character.

  • Critics argue that it can muffle the sound, reduce volume, and hinder the instrument's natural resonance. Many violins that had the device installed have since had it removed.

• The Value: The primary value of a "Virzi" violin comes not from the device itself but from the quality of the instrument it is installed in. However, the presence of the device adds a fascinating historical curiosity. The violin may be a high-quality instrument from a reputable German or French workshop, or it may be a more basic student-grade instrument.

Features of the Instrument

• Materials and Construction: As a vintage instrument, it would have a solid spruce top and a maple back, sides, and neck. The quality of the wood and the craftsmanship would vary depending on who originally made the violin.

• "Used" Condition: The condition of the violin will be a major factor in its value and playability. As a vintage instrument, it may have signs of wear, repairs, and other issues that would need to be checked by a luthier.

• Included Case: The case would also be vintage and may or may not be the original one. It would provide protection but might not be as durable as a modern case.

Overall Impression

A used Vintage Virzi Tone Producer 4/4 Violin is an excellent choice for:

• Collectors and History Buffs: This is more of a collector's item or a conversation piece than a mainstream playing instrument. The history of the Virzi device is fascinating and is a great part of the instrument's story.

• Experimental Musicians: For a musician who is looking for a unique tonal character and is not afraid to explore an instrument with a different sound profile.

• A Player with a Knowledgeable Luthier: If you are considering purchasing this instrument, it is essential to have it inspected by a professional luthier who can assess the condition of the violin itself and the effect of the Virzi device on the sound.