No matter how good something looked on the web...I wouldn't buy an instrument that way. The tone and setup are so very important. I would have to play an instrument myself before purchasing.
Best wishes to you.
I would agree with you . Prices are way cheaper online. And many reputed stores setup the instrument and send them . If you are not satisfied, you can always return them .
The violin my friend bought was called William Lewis & Son Orchestra Violin Outfit VI 4/4.
He came upon this violin from a web site called violinwizard.com/violin_buying.html
His teacher tested it and said that he has to pay more than 500$ for the same type violin from a store. And it was set up good too. The teacher now recommends that violin.