Gear article
Hidersine HEV2 Electric Violin
The Hidersine HEV2 is an entry-level electric violin designed for silent practice and amplified performance. It features an integrated preamp system with dedicated outputs for both headphones and standard amplifiers, catering to students and experimental musicians.
See live pricesOverview
The Hidersine HEV2 Electric Violin is positioned as an accessible entry point for violinists wishing to transition from acoustic to electronic performance. Unlike traditional hollow-bodied instruments, the HEV2 utilises a modern frame design that reduces the natural acoustic volume, making it suitable for discreet practice sessions. It is designed to be user-friendly, requiring minimal external equipment to function.
Key Features and Connectivity
The primary design focus of the HEV2 is its dual-output capability. A dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack is built directly into the instrument, allowing for 'plug-and-play' practice without the need for an external preamplifier or interface. For live performance or recording, a standard 1/4" output jack allows the instrument to be connected to guitar amplifiers, PA systems, or computer audio interfaces.
Sound Character and Tone Shaping
Because the HEV2 relies on electronic pickups rather than a wooden soundboard for projection, its raw tone is neutral and clean. This makes it a versatile platform for signal processing. Users can experiment with various effects, including:
- Guitar Pedals: Distortion, delay, and reverb can be used to transform the violin's sound for rock or experimental music.
- Software Effects: When connected to a computer, the instrument can trigger a variety of digital soundscapes.
- Amplification: The sound can be shaped further via the EQ settings on a standard guitar or keyboard amplifier.
Target Audience
The HEV2 is particularly suited for students who need a quiet practice solution for home use or flat living. Its striking aesthetic design also targets performers in contemporary bands who require an instrument that can be heard clearly in loud stage environments. It serves as a secondary instrument for classical players looking to explore non-traditional genres without a significant financial investment.
Comparison to Alternatives
Within the affordable electric violin market, the HEV2 competes with models like the G4M Solus. While traditional outfits like the Stentor Graduate focus on acoustic resonance for students, the HEV2 prioritises electronic utility. It is often paired with maintenance accessories such as Wittner adjustable tailpieces or Hidersine's carbon fibre bows to enhance durability and playability.
Related gear
£299.99 ($381)G4M
G4M Solus Electric Violin Midnight Ebony
£227.00 ($288)Stentor
Stentor Graduate Violin Outfit 1/8
£453.00 ($575)Stentor
Stentor Messina Violin 3/4 Instrument Only
£25.00 ($32)Wittner
Wittner Violin Tailpiece Position Adjustable 4/4 Size
£205.00 ($260)Hidersine
Hidersine Premium Unidirectional Carbon Violin Bow 4/4
£44.00 ($56)Conrad Goetz
Goetz Kaufmann Style Viola Chinrest Boxwood Gold Hill Screws
£69.00 ($88)Conrad Goetz
Goetz Stuber Style Violin Chinrest Boxwood Titanium Screws
£19.60 ($25)P&H Bows
P&H Viola Bowhair Hank 15-16 Inch
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use the Hidersine HEV2 for silent practice?
- Yes, the HEV2 is designed for this purpose. It features a built-in headphone jack that allows you to hear your playing directly through headphones while producing very little external noise.
- Do I need an external amplifier to use this violin?
- An amplifier is not strictly required for private practice because of the headphone output. However, to perform for an audience or hear the instrument through speakers, a guitar amplifier or PA system is necessary.
- What type of cables are needed for the HEV2?
- The instrument uses a standard 1/4" jack cable for connection to amplifiers or interfaces. For headphone use, it typically accepts a standard 3.5mm stereo mini-jack.
- Can I use guitar effect pedals with the Hidersine HEV2?
- Yes, the 1/4" output is compatible with standard guitar effect pedals. You can use pedals like distortion, chorus, or delay to change the violin's sound.
- Is the HEV2 suitable for recording on a computer?
- It is well-suited for recording. You can plug the violin directly into an audio interface, which then sends the signal to your computer for use with digital audio workstations and software effects.
- Does this violin sound like a traditional acoustic violin?
- While it retains the character of a violin, its tone is generated electronically. It lacks the natural resonance of a hollow wooden body but offers a clean signal that can be processed to mimic different sounds.
- What is the typical price range for the Hidersine HEV2?
- The instrument typically retails for approximately £172. This makes it an affordable option compared to professional-grade electric violins.
- Who is the Hidersine HEV2 designed for?
- It is designed for students needing quiet practice, violinists in amplified bands, and musicians looking to experiment with electronic effects and modern violin design.
- Does the HEV2 come with a bow or case?
- Manufacturer specifications focus on the instrument itself. Users often pair it with accessories such as the Hidersine Premium Unidirectional Carbon Violin Bow for better performance.
- Can I adjust the chinrest on the HEV2?
- While the instrument comes with a standard setup, it can be modified with aftermarket parts. Products such as Goetz Kaufmann or Stuber style chinrests are common upgrades for player comfort.
- How does the HEV2 compare to the G4M Solus?
- Both are affordable electric violins with modern skeleton designs. The HEV2 is noted for its straightforward controls and dedicated headphone jack, which is a key feature for practice-oriented users.
- What size is the Hidersine HEV2?
- The HEV2 is a full-size (4/4) instrument. It is designed to accommodate adult players and students who have graduated to a full-sized violin.
