Exploring Guitars that Can Mimic the Sound of an Electric Violin

Are there any guitars that can produce the sound of an electric violin? While guitars and violins have distinctly different sound profiles, there are several innovative approaches and ingenious solutions to achieve a violin-like sustain and tone from a guitar. This article will explore these methods and suggest ways to emulate the rich, sustained sound of a violin on a guitar.

Close Approximations with Guitar Techniques and Equipment

Managing to produce a violin-like sound on a guitar isn't as far-fetched as it might seem. Techniques such as legato playing and using the right amplifier can help you come close to simulating a bowed sound. An envelope filter pedal is a useful tool for removing the pick attack, making the sound more sustained and bow-like.

For those interested in creating more authentic violin sounds, consider using a MIDI compatible pickup, which allows you to play violin samples via MIDI. Additionally, the Sustainiac and Ebough devices can also be used to extend the sustain of your guitar's strings, similar to how a violin is bowed.

Advanced Technique and Equipment

For those who've invested in a synthesizer alongside their guitar, it might interest you to know that there are electric guitars capable of producing over 560 different instruments, including a wide range of violin sounds. An example of such a guitar is the Fender Stratocaster or Telecaster, when equipped with a synthesizer and some creative settings, can create these sounds.

Following is a more software-based approach. Modern synthesizers allow users to import and play violin samples. Although it may not provide the unique physical features of a bowed instrument, it certainly gives you the option to emulate the sound of a violin with incredible authenticity.

Innovative Guitar Designs Inspired by Historical Instruments

Another fascinating route is to explore modernized versions of historical instruments that include the ability to be bow-stimulated. The Togaman Guitar Viol is such a device. Tuned like a guitar, it can indeed be bow-stimulated, offering a rich, violin-like sound. Inspired by the concept of the arpeggionne—a cello-like fretted instrument tuned like a guitar but designed to respond to bowing—this modern device comes with features like a sound post and a bass bar, along with an arched fingerboard and bridge, which allows you to play single notes with the bow.

While these innovations aren't direct twins of a violin, they do offer unique ways to achieve a violin-like sustain and tone with a guitar. They represent a blend of historical music-making techniques with modern technological advancements, making them ideal for both musicians and enthusiasts looking for new soundscapes to explore.

Conclusion

The quest for violin-like sustain and sound on a guitar is one that has many interesting solutions. By exploring innovative techniques, synthesizer technology, and modernized historical instruments, guitarists can come close to achieving the rich sustain and soulful tones that the electric violin is known for. Whether you're playing classical, folk, or experimental music, these methods can help you add that extra layer of depth and emotion to your performances.

References:
1. Togaman Guitar Viol:
2. Arpeggione: