An octave violin, also sometimes called a baritone violin or tenor violin, is a violin-sized instrument tuned an octave lower than a standard violin, typically using larger diameter strings and a larger body or deeper ribs to accommodate the lower frequencies.
While one can simply install octave violin strings on a regular violin, the results will vary from merely acceptable to horrible. A regular violin with octave strings will NEVER sound as good as a purpose-built Octave Violin.
The decision to spend between $7,500 to $8,000 for a purpose-built octave violin will always be based on how important extraordinary tone and power are for accomplishing one’s creative goals.
Common tuning: G2 D3 A3 E4
D Rickert Musical Instruments 