NAMM 26: Digital Electric Violin

Aileen Strings, the musical instrument company founded in 1993 by Aileen Gu, has announced the official release of the patented AV-D501 digital electric violin, which they describe as a forward-looking instrument designed for today's genre-spanning performers. Here's the details in their own words...

Initially shown at the 2025 Music China trade show in October, the AV-D501 was recognized as "Best New Product of the Year." Building on the company's long-standing motto "Since 1993, crafted with care," the dedication to detail, craftsmanship, and tonal excellence is evident throughout. The innovative AV-D501 brings advanced connectivity, onboard digital effects, and contemporary design to musicians everywhere. Available in five unique, eye-catching finishes, the AV-D501 reflects meticulous setup, quality materials, and a relentless pursuit of perfection, to provide violin players with a new instrument that allows them to explore modern and diverse musical styles.

Designed with the intent to reimagine what is possible with a violin, similar to how the electric guitar revolutionized the acoustic guitar world, the AV-D501 is a patent-designed silhouette body featuring a modern, distinctive scroll and vibrant finishes. This contemporary aesthetic is matched by traditional tone enhancing details, including an ebony fingerboard and ebony endpins, all prepared and adjusted in the Aileen Strings workshop according to international violin setup standards. The neck, fingerboard, and contact points benefit from careful hand crafted by Aileen's skilled team, hallmarks of the company's approach to delivering a progressive increase in aesthetic refinement and tonal performance across its model range. True to Aileen's values, every AV-D501 undergoes 100% inspection before leaving the workshop.

The AV-D501 features a versatile piezo pickup system paired with a suite of forward-thinking electronics. Players can shape their sound using master volume and master tone controls, while the innovative FX switch provides onboard digital effects including Reverb, Chorus, Delay, Reverb + Chorus, and Reverb + Delay, each indicated by its own LED color. Outputs include 6.35mm (1/4"), USB-C (OTG), and a 3.5mm headphone output make the AV-D501 equally capable on stage, in the studio, or during silent rehearsal sessions.

Completing the instrument is a thoughtfully selected set of hardware including a carbon-fiber tailpiece and high-quality accessories designed for reliability and comfort. The violin includes a Brazilwood bow, ensuring players have a ready-to-perform setup straight out of the case. Built as a 20th Anniversary Edition, the AV-D501 highlights Aileen Strings' decades-long commitment to delivering instruments of exceptional value, gorgeous sound, and enduring craftsmanship, each one shaped by skilled hands and guided by the belief that every violin carries the Aileen name and promise.
 

Pricing and Availability:

The AV-D501 electric violin is now available worldwide through local retailers and online channels.
MSRP $259.99 USD

More information:

• www.aileenstrings.com