I learnt the violin at school and the loan instrument was, I was informed, a very good one that had been donated. I used to know the name of it and people nodded in the same way as guitarist nod when you say you own a Martin, Fylde etc. (All I recall is that they were recognisable as having an extra twirl in the Ionic scroll on the headstock. Anybody help?)

I now have a very cheap no name that I bought about ten years ago for about £100.00.

To be fair, I reckon this one is physically easier to play, and to me sounds fine. Interestingly, and the reason I mention it on this thread.. My bow broke and I bought a new one. It doesn't sound quite as good if I have to be honest.

I wonder if the bow, strings or bridge even, were variables in the experiment?