While plugged in, the Series+ 501 viola keeps the natural warmth of a traditional viola while adding edge and a whole new dimension of musical possibilities. Jean-Pierre Lupot model VA501 violas are made with a well flamed maple back and a select spruce top. The elegantly antiqued multi-layer spirit varnish features a reddish pigment with deep red wine hues. Each model VA501 is constructed with a select spruce top and well-flamed maple back, sides and scroll. The unique pickup system is embedded into the spruce top of the instrument before varnishing with no disturbance to the bridge. Our proprietary 3.5 mm jack is used as the end button on the violins and violas making it unnoticeable. Each Series+ instrument comes with a lightweight, low-profile cable that provides a seamless connection to your amplifier or individual playing setup, making this the easiest and most comfortable design to “plug in” on the market.