Want something really unique and not quite so saturated/violin like? Try and track down an Ampeg Scrambler (reissue! originals will cost you a fortune if you can get one...or build one, simple schematic) and run it through an overdrive small tube combo (Champ, in my case AX-84 P1 custom built).
Here's a quick track I did with that setup (LP Custom, mic'ed with Rode NT1a, no FX), with some funky rhythm playing.
If you run it through a heavy stack, you get Smashing Pumpkins leads.