Buying a string instrument

[caff]

Any tips on where to start? I'm an experienced piano and clarinet player, but haven't played either for years.

I have a feeling there will be a more diverse choice of music for solo violin, than for viola / cello / bass, so I'm interested in picking one up.

Any tips on violin makes / brands, particularly 'good value' ones (no set budget - anything considered so long as it's not crazy) and where to buy?

 

[caff]

Any other suggestions? I've seen a fleabay shop called yitamusic based on China that has some fairly good (but sometimes mixed) feedback on various forums.

 

[caff]

I'm not buying it for a 'conversation piece', I just want to play the violin! I love the sound of it.