Who would have guessed that a 3D-printed violin could produce concert-quality sound?

That was Laurent Bernadac’s vision, five years ago.  Today, he’s made it a reality, with his invention: the “3Dvarius”.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Laurent, who is both a mechanical engineer and a professional violinist, has created the world’s first fully 3D-printed electric concert violin.  He conceived the idea in 2012. according to his website.   After first trying to create a violin in aluminum, he turned to 3D printing.  The result?

His “3Dvarius”, designed to play classical music as beautifully as a standard concert violin.

In early January, Laurent exhibited his  innovation at CES® 2017’s Eureka Park™ Marketplace, in Las Vegas.   He also allowed fellow violinists a chance to play his new instrument–and the sound was incredible!

Laurent talked about the process of designing, testing and marketing the “3Dvarius”.

In this edition of Over Coffee® you’ll hear:

• How Laurent came to choose 3D printing for his new violin;

• Some of the challenges involved in creating it;

• Laurent’s experiences testing and showcasing his new instrument;

• His advice to fellow makers and innovators;

• Where to see and hear the “3Dvarius” and meet Laurent!

(Will you be at the National Association of Music Merchants trade show, in Anaheim, January 19th-22, 2017 in Anaheim?  Laurent will be there throughout the show, playing and giving a presentation on his new “3Dvarius” electric concert violin!

Can’t make it to NAMM?  Here’s the link to Laurent’s YouTube channel, where you can see him play his 3Dvarius violin and check out the sound for yourself!)