Richard, my own preference for amplification is a short, flexible stalk mic which can attach to the violin body, rather than a pickup. As for Behringer DI boxes, I used one for about 3 gigs before dumping it on eBay and buying a much more expensive and high quality one - which cost me about £100 but is excellent quality. Where tone's concerned, I rely on amp/PA settings to get it as I want it.