* Body shape: German violins typically have a more bulbous body shape than Italian violins. This gives them a warmer, more mellow sound.
* Arching: The arching of the top and back of a violin affects the way the sound is projected. German violins typically have a higher arch than Italian violins, which gives them a brighter, more focused sound.
* Soundholes: The soundholes on a violin are responsible for allowing the sound to escape from the instrument. German violins typically have wider soundholes than Italian violins, which gives them a more open, airy sound.
* Varnish: The varnish on a violin affects the appearance and sound of the instrument. German violins typically have a darker, more lustrous varnish than Italian violins, which gives them a more antique look.
Of course, these are just general trends. There are many exceptions to these rules, and there is no one definitive answer to the question of which type of violin is better. Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of violin is right for you is to try out different instruments and see what you like the sound and feel of best.