Sadly, while trying to research the price of 13" violas, I stumbled upon the "Dragon viola." I drove out to lynn to see it and pick it up. I have to say, I have a little bit of buyer's remorse, since I found out they're much cheaper on ebay (though not always available) so I should have haggled and it's also counter productive to getting rid of stuff.
But there is some value in being able to see (and hear it) in person, since inlay might change the sound. And you have to admit, I got something pretty unique. Hopefully that will help it hold it's value if I ever decide to sell it.
I am glad I didn't wait for electric viola guy to trade me so I could trade the 13" for a discount on this, since that's still not happened.
Since violas are the same string order as cellos, I've been able to badly play things. I'm at that great place where I'm getting better fast. I think it sounds good, though under my fingers it's hard to tell. The C string does woof a bit, though.
I plan to post the batteries and the "orbitrek" elipital machine soon.