What are the special points I need to remember when I am purchasing a violin?

   The prices of violins can vary enormously, depending on the age, the maker, the condition, the popularity and of course the sound quality of the instrument.  Machine-made instruments are relatively much cheaper than those made by hand.  Of the machine-made violins, those made in Germany are somewhat superior in quality than those made in Japan.  There are some good quality hand-made violins produced for around 5000 US$  Of course, of the 'old' Italian instruments, there are violins which are priced a few million dollars.
   One must be weary of fake instruments, as well as instruments in bad condition.  There have been many cases where the dealers have been even imprisoned for falsifying and forgery.  One must ask for advise from a reputed violin repairer or dealer.