Carbon viola Hybrid Line size. 16.5 (large viola)

Full Viola Format. Full Tonal Range. Amplified When You Need It.

The DesignLine Hybrid Viola 16.5" combines everything the full-size viola stands for – maximum tonal volume, depth in the lower registers, hand-finished surface – with a permanently integrated pickup system. Acoustically professional, electrically amplified at a moment's notice. Entirely designed and handcrafted in our German workshop.

100 % CARBON FIBER MADE IN GERMANY 16.5" (APPROX. 42 CM) INTEGRATED PICKUP 5-YEAR WARRANTY

Why 16.5 Inches?

The 16.5" scale is the classical viola format – the choice for violists who seek the maximum in tonal volume and depth. The larger body unlocks the full resonance potential of the C- and G-strings and delivers a carrying power that provides presence in large concert halls and orchestral settings.

Surface

The DesignLine is manufactured using a vacuum infusion process, then finished entirely by hand: sanded multiple times, lacquered, and polished to a high gloss. The result is the shimmering carbon weave with its signature three-dimensional depth.

Alternatively, the DesignLine Hybrid is available with Orchestra Finish: a convincingly realistic wood appearance, customised to your preferences.

Sound

Acoustically, the Hybrid version delivers the same sound as the purely acoustic model. The 16.5" viola unfolds the full tonal spectrum of the instrument – with a volume and resonance that come into their own particularly in the lower registers.

• C-String: Depth, warmth, and carrying power at the highest level – the heart of the viola sound, fully realised.
• Response: Direct and immediate across all positions. Less bow pressure required than on comparable wooden instruments.
• Dynamics: From warm pianissimo to commanding fortissimo – the instrument follows effortlessly, without saturation.

Pickup System

A permanently installed ANS pickup system (AbsoluteNaturalSound) based on dynamic microphone technology. The pickup is built into the instrument from the start – no retrofitting, no adhesive mounts, no cable clutter.

• Connection: Standard 1/4" (6.3 mm) jack – directly compatible with amplifiers, mixing consoles, and effects units.
• Principle: Plug & play. Connect a cable, start playing. No battery required, no pre-wiring needed.
• Tonal Character: The ANS pickup captures the instrument's natural voice – warm, detailed, and free from the harshness typically associated with piezo-based systems.

Components

Every DesignLine Hybrid Viola 16.5" is built, set up, and shipped ready to play from our German workshop:

• Pegs: Wittner fine-tuning pegs – precise tuning with minimal effort, completely climate-stable.
• Fingerboard & Chinrest: CITES-free composite – temperature-resistant, hypoallergenic, durable.
• Tailpiece: Wittner with Kevlar tailgut.
• Pickup: ANS (AbsoluteNaturalSound), dynamic microphone technology, 1/4" (6.3 mm) jack.
• Ergonomics: Purpose-designed grooves in the lower bouts ensure a secure fit for any standard shoulder rest.

Configuration

• 5-String: Extend your range with an additional E-string – for maximum flexibility between violin and viola repertoire.
• Orchestra Finish: Custom wood-effect varnish to your specifications.
• Bridge Upgrade: Optional Milo Stamm Royal or carbon bridge for additional tonal refinement.

Warranty

5-year unrestricted manufacturer's warranty on the body.

mezzo-forte instruments are developed and handcrafted entirely in Germany.