ANAHEIM, Calif. — Yamaha Corporation of America, Band & Orchestral Division, introduces its first-ever Electro-Acoustic Violin, designed to create the perfect bridge between acoustic and electric string instruments.

AV10-44SGE Electric-Acoustic Violin

The handcrafted Yamaha Electro-Acoustic Violin Outfits include two models, the AV7-44SGE and the AV10-44SGE. To create the smooth combination of acoustic and electric string instruments, Yamaha fixed their VNP-1 bridge pick up into each model. The VNP1 is a dual-sensor, grounded bridge pickup permanently attached to a high quality Aubert bridge blank and connected to a unique, single barrel, side-mounted jack. The side-mount features only one barrel, causing less interference with the user's shoulder rest. The VNP1 is the only pickup system of its kind to provide a fully grounded circuit, almost completely eliminating outside noise and interference due to improper grounding. Yamaha's VNP-1 pick up is recognized as one of the finest violin pick ups available today, making these models ideal choices as step up instruments.

"Now, students and amateur players have an appealing new option—a great pick up already fitted on to a quality Yamaha step up violin, and packaged into an attractive outfit with an oblong case and Brazilwood bow," says Ken Dattmore, marketing manager, Yamaha Strings. "Yamaha has long set the standard for combining the best traditions with the newest technologies. The new violin outfits combine both into an affordable instrument that offers players more versatility and the ability to expand their playing horizons."

Available in January 2009, the Electro-Acoustic Violin models include Yamaha's five-year warranty, providing each musician with great quality and service.

For more information on the Yamaha Electro-Acoustic Violin Outfits, visit Yamaha Corporation of America at Winter NAMM 2009 at the Marquis Ballroom in the Anaheim Marriott Hotel; write Yamaha Corporation of America, Band & Orchestral Division, P.O. Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone (714) 522-9011; e-mail infostation@yamaha.com; or visit www.yamaha.com/band.