Reddit reviews Glaesel GL3834 Violin Ultra Practice Mute

For a very inexpensive option that doesn't compromise your sound quality too much, you might try a rubber practice mute. I have a roommate who's frequently trying to work and concentrate in the evening, and I have that exact mute. If I go in the next room and close the door while using the mute, he can barely hear that I'm playing, much less is it bothersome. As a caveat, though, it's definitely not literally silent-- but I think that if my roommate can barely hear it, your neighbors should not be able to hear it at all.

Probably the quietest option, of course, would be a silent electric violin.

It's a very common question around here, and the standard answer is not to buy an electric violin, rent a normal one and use a mute.

From what little I know (adult beginner here), it is the superior choice because the bowing required for an electric instrument is way more forgiving compared to an acoustic one, and you might end up not being able to play the acoustic one without significant relearning.

Are you sure you have time for the violin though?

My teacher has 4 adult students between 25 and... 50 (I think?), and she says they are all really dedicated... and don't worry if you can't read sheet music yet, you will learn that "on the go" (although I admit me being able to read it might have additionally accelerated my progress).

Concerning the volume: As I work from home I usually practice at times when most neighbours aren't home, so that's an advantage. If you are on good terms with your neighbours, you could maybe speak to the ones living directly adjacent to your flat and "warn them" you'll pick up the violin - if the neighbours are nice, they'll probably be supportive as long as you are open and communicative with them. I don't know where you are located, but in Germany you actually have the right to play an instrument for several hours per day in an apartment (Although I think drums are limited to 90 minutes per day :-D). Otherwise, I can recommend a rubber mute which considerably takes down the volume. I use the Glaesel practice mute for weekends (Sundays), but it's not really the same as practicing without it.

Here you'll find a test with and without the practice mute.

Batman! Cause my car is the Batmobile in disguise xD

And something for /u/Watsoned... cause we rarely agree on anything xD

And oh, I found you :P

Get a Practice mute

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Handy if you have a violin or a kid with one! It's under $5 under other sellers. If you don't, this is handy for looking fabulous!

Have you considered a practice mute? Very helpful for late practice and not disturbing apartment-mates.

I use this practice mute myself, it's great - http://www.amazon.com/Glaesel-Violin-Ultra-Practice-Mute/dp/B0002II6V0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398474500&sr=8-1&keywords=violin+mute