These are great videos. One thing I do to make all my strings last longer is wipe them down with a piece of chamois to remove the oils from the fingers. Corrosion is a major enemy of string life. I always to that before I put the violin away. Chamois can also remove built up rosin on the strings, near the bridge. I pinch the chamois on the string and rub it so it makes that sound of squeaky chalk on a blackboard. When there's no more squeak, the string is clean.
James Tunnicliffe I have a 80 year Italian violin that I'm renting for the next three years from my high school I don't know if I should invest in 50$ strings help
There's no reason to clean the rosin off the string, it just makes it harder for the bow to get good contact with the string if it's flawlessly clean and slippery. Only clean the fingerboard area, and the wood underneath the bridge of the violin of rosin.
I cannot praise the D'Addario Prelude strings highly enough. I have them on my $40 wonder duct tape violin (long story), and despite the duct tape, that poor little violin just SINGS.
i play on d’addario helicore strings, and i love them. they hold their tune unbelievably well, and the g and d strings and wonderfully warm and rich, and the a and e are beautifully bright and clear.
We've had a week of near-hundred-degree temps here in L.A. I think the D'Addario Preludes are going to be the first ones I try. Thank you for such a comprehensive video.
My teacher said when I got a violin put Dominants on it. I did so and it mellowed it out considerably, which was great. I hadn't realised there was such a variety available - I'm new to the violin but I've been playing the viola da gamba for a few years and we've got a much more limited selection (presumably because there're not as many gamba players). We use almost exclusively gut strings, and I'm quite tickled by the most expensive strings in this video being £84 for a set of super-quality gut strings. I can pay that for one single lower string on my bass viol... Still, clearly as my violin playing improves there's a lot of scope to tweak the sound with different stringing all within very reasonable budgets. Hurrah!
I'm in L.A. love watching your videos, they are very helpful. I'm an advanced guitarist but a beginner violin player. So your videos are worth gold! Thanks again!
I personally get inspired by your videos, I'm a student and watching your vidoes really help me! I wish you had your own company; I'd trust any product you put on the market!! Thanks for the inspiration and information.
I have to say, I'm done with PIRASTRO Gold No. 900300. Just read a guy in the U.S. who hates it because it constantly crumbles off his bow, so he has to rub it on again and again. This is exactly my problem--at least as long I play Dominant Synthetics. In the store they had told me it would be fine for synthetic strings, but I just found out, it's suited for GOLD GUT! A couple hours ago I told the seller to order Dominant rosin for synthetics--I wonder why they never have it on store, as they sell Dominant Synthetic strings. I really had to learn it the hard way, but now I have lots of hope this annoyance will be over soon. That evil rosin gets scratchy sometimes too. I don't know how this is possible, but suddenly it sticks more and than it's way too much. But mostly it doesn't stick enough ends up like snow on my strings. Could it be possible, it responds to heat, if I turn on the radiator more? Or it's really to use for gut only and this is the mistake.
inuysha360 I ordered rosin and stick to my Dominant synthetic strings.....until I might change to Larsen one day. I heard them on another channel and liked them a lot. But I won't change strings now.
I got Dominant No.203 rosin yesterday and it works much better now. I don't think my old rosin was bad, but it's just not suited for synthetic strings. There were tiny rosin bulges on my strings before and now it's all smooth. And it sounds better. Warmer.
Thank You so very much for making this video . I watch this video every now and then when I'm looking at getting strings just to refresh which you prefer :)
Do you have any recommendations for an antique violin? I have inherited my uncles fiddles (we’re a bluegrass family) and his most played fiddle dates back to the 1700’s and possibly as far back as the 1500’s. I don’t wanna put cheap strings on such a beautiful and beloved instrument, any non gut recommendations would be highly appreciated! And now that I’m thinking of it, a video for caring for an antique violin would be amazing!
I just ended up mixing strings. I hadn't thought of that. I bought some expensive strings, but the E was screeching no matter what I did. I ended up putting Pirastro's on the G, D and A strings and a Jargar on the High E. I had tried the Gold label and kept having issues with the wrap that runs over the bridge (don't know what you call it)
Yes, right today I changed from Dominants to Tonicas and I like it a lot. The pitch is NOT changing if I put pressure on the string, an issue I frankly had with Dominants. To me Dominants are too dark, the last video they shot in my act I find it downright muted, kinda like I had played in bed, under a feather-bed. Tonicas now give me the brilliance I was missing. However, I kept my Eudoxa e string I bought a couple weeks ago. I really hate the Dominant e string, its harshness kinda reminds me of a buzz saw. This really scared me away from using the e string for months. Actually, I should use gut, but it's impossible: sheep are people to me, so I find the idea really shocking to have their guts on my violin. _____________ ADDENDA: In the meantime I changed my mind and put the Dominants back on. C'mon, they're warm, but not too warm. I shouldn't give too much for a stupid camera microphone's result. Tonicas cannot match Dominants! The only downside is the Dominant e string. It might be capable to break glass......
I think the Dominants are a pretty neutral string that is readily available and not so expensive, so a lot of store will put them on violins if people are going to compare instruments. IF you know how the instrument sounds with dominants you can judge how warm or bright the instrument is and not just if it has bright strings on it. That said, dominants never seem to me to be the best strings for any instrument I have ever had, so I usually change them out fairly quickly. I have one violin that loves tonicas and sounds very precise and controlled and warm with them; dominants sound dead on it, but it loves tonicas. It is my number 1. My violas mostly get obligatos and a steel A. I use Jarger E strings on my violins as well. I have another Guarnieri model violin that gets the gut strings when I am playing it regularly (usually Eudoxa, but if I am playing a lot and feeling spendy, Olives) Olives are truly lovely, but both of them will wear out faster or if you don't play them and leave them tensioned, they still make eventually break, so you need to play regularly for it to be worth it. I will put obligatos on it if I am playing less regularly because they still sound pretty good, but last longer and don't break as easily if left under tension. I also have a smaller viola that has helicores on it because it helps it project a little better. My Cello has helicores as well right now. It came with Helicores and sounds good and cello strings are a little pricey to experiment with if your instrument already sounds good as it is. I do think the thing in the video that is most correct is that you have to match the string with the instrument and also what you want to hear. One person's bright is another person's harsh and one person's warm is another person's muddy or unfocused. We all have a different preferred sound in our head so what I love might be just okay to you and vice versa. I have tried a lot of different strings (synoxa, chorda, D'adarrio, etc.) and it can make you crazy, so I eventually simplified to Tonicas (T's)and Obligatos (O's) and a high quality metal high string unless I have a reason not to (like I want to play gut strings for a while or an instrument doesn't sound good with them). If I play too many brands and models of strings, wanting to have a spare set around becomes a logistical issue. I have 2 spare violin sets (T's and O's) and 1 spare viola set to keep up (O's) with so it's easy. great video, I really enjoyed it and the thought is provoked.
i have Obligatos on my stradisparagus but I would recommend the silver D as opposed to the aluminum I think the Dominant D had more bite. Actually I don't know really but I do want to try the silver D I hear it may be better better oh and the gold E obligato as opposed to the regular Obligato which is not that bad but you cant beat the Evah gold E \m/ hail!. I am hoping they do last some before I am obligato to purchase another set $. Nice video thank you and you look very nice today. Cheerios.
Took me 3 years to find my idea setup that worked on all 3 of my violins. I wanted something that was familiar so preferred 1 setup and it was hard to find strings that would compliment each violin even if all 3 are similar in characteristic and sound. I ended up with Oliv G stiff heavy gauge, passione A/D medium, Oliv E medium. Love this setup as it keeps the powerful lower strings with stability of the A/D and a golden E that provides the power and warmth in the upper regions.
Hello Teacher ! Please, I need an opinion ! first of all : thank you very much for your excellent video and all your work 😊 My question is: I am a beginner and I have a basic violin with steel strings. I wish to upgrade it a little. I would like to give a warmer and richer/darker tone to my violin so I would like to have the Thomastik Infield Red strings (I can have them at -50% in my country). Do you know them ? However I am afraid because the graph of these strings indicates that they are between easy and demanding to play. So is it a good choice for a beginner ? Or I must chose Dominante or Zyex ? Thank you very much !
I think that if you have a beginner violin ,spending a lot on strings becomes pointless to a degree because they will not really alter the tone of the violin as the violin is not going to be responsive at that level. I have not played the Infield strings, but they may be steel (correct me if im wrong). Steel strings on beginner violins can be very loud, harsh and too bright. Going warm usually means you need softer strings or even gut strings, but they are going to be expensive and wont make your violin sound warm as its a student violin. If you want a warm violin, you will need to upgrade to a better violin, then choose strings based on that.
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor A huge thank you for your answer! The Thomastik Infeld have composite souls. the blue ones have a brilliant sound and the reds have a warm sound. You are so right for my choice of strings! You avoided me an error !! I feel exactly what you say with my steel strings, it's cold, sharp and too powerful. I'm going to get some nylon strings for 30 € to start. For now I do not think I have the level to switch to an upgrade violin. May I ask you another question? What is your point of view on the frets to stick? I hear some teachers say that beginners become dependents of it and that it is harmful for learn. What do you think ? Being autodidact you are my only violin teacher, and all your advices / videos / answers are worth gold, THANK YOU VERY MUCH ! 💙
You're getting your strings at quite low prices compared to what I've been paying, lucky you. :) I totally agreed with the Evah P e string, great at first but did not survive long on my violin at all! After 2 weeks it went dull, bright but lacking. Wish you'd do a video on different E strings though.
I play a mix bag , old time , some Cajun . Country etc still looking for the Holy Grail of strings for the old fiddle I like my fiddle singing in a warm smooth tone
Your the women. great information . now i know how to get my instrument to sound like how i imagine. the way i could express how i imagine would be silver. bright, crisp, sharp and clear. like the moon. cool as in temperature thats the sound im looking for
When you say, Dominants or Tonicas on your student violin, do you mean something like a Stentor II or a Cecilio? Or do you mean student violins in general? I have a Maple Leaf Strings Student Violin, which I currently have Dominants with an Evah Pirazzi E String on, but would it be worth it to put a full set of Evah Pirazzis on? (The student violin I have is 1,000 USD)
Student violin as in a few hundred dollars. its not worth putting anything like Evahs on student violins as 1. its a waste of time and money and wont make any significant difference and 2. there are better strings like Tonicas or Dominants to put on those.
Thanks for your Nice Review...I Got a Question . . I own a 2 year old Chinese violin ,its naturally a mellow sounding instrument....I tried Pirastro obligatos ,wondertone solo and Dominants and tonicas...They all sounded dull(less volume and mellow) on my violin...Please suggest me the strings that would provide a clear , open and bright tone with bigger volume (without harshness as in case of steel strings)...I basically play solos..pls help..
***** perhaps you need something brighter? have you tried strings by D'Addario? Their new Kaplans are great and one in particular called Kaplan Vivos are bright, but still warm. Here is the video on them and the links are underneath: ruclips.net/video/WUYj6GnRdus/видео.html
Thanks for your reply..I've Tried d'addario golden spiral 'E'...but it sounded metallic... I'm focused towards bright sound and volume without metallic sound...Please Help..
I just got the Dominant G string. Good video as always. I just have a question. Due to the lack of time, because I'm a university student, I stop going to my violin lessons. Is there any book that you can recommend me so I can practice by my self. I was using the suzuki book with my instructor. Mostly I have problems knowing the different notes. Thanks.
I dont really know how far you got or what you can do etc so its really hard for me to suggest what you can do, but why dont you go back to some old Suzuki books and then carry on from thee? That way you are familiar with the structure?
Very nice video and very helpful. My violin teacher believes the Dominants are the best string. It was nice to hear about some others. I do currently have Dominants on my violin (definitely student quality) and I really like them. The other string I like are Helicores which I have on my viola.
Rebecca Whitford Have you tried Pirastros? Dominants are Ok in my opinion as they are a good quality string, but have no flavour or tone. If you want a good quality professional string, the Dominants are great, but there are some Pirastro strings that can really make your violin sing depending on what you choose - you can also mix them with Dominants...
Thanks for the video. I haven't played my hopf student violin for a while (long story) and now have wrist arthritis but going to try again..however, all the previous Dominant strings are either gone or on their way out. I have never tried any other string and no idea if Dominant are the best on a hopf student or the Pirastro Tonica you mention, but then I read somewhere someone said a string called an Asterion (I might've remembered name wrong but similar to that) suddenly made his hopf come alive. I do vaguely remember that the Dominant G was very sombre and hard to get a good tension or tone on. Bearing in mind my wrist arthritis, and the fact it's a hopf student, which set would you recommend of the three? Many thanks.
Im afraid I cant really help you with this as I have no idea what a 'Hopf' violin sounds like. It also depends on what you do and dont want to get out of the violin sound and tone-wise. The idea of this video for example would be to understand what each string is supposed to do on a violin, then you choose accordingly.
Hello, thank you for always answering our doubts, could you tell me what strings you use for your own violin, and how much are they in toltal? Thank you very much, im very excited for your concert! thank you.
Alison, thank you for your guidance on strings. I'm borrowing my grand nephews 4/4 violin until he grows into it (and I have the dough to replace my Scott Cao Provigny Strad copy) and I was having a problem in higher positions with the D (3rd) string. After watching your videos, I bought a Pirastro Tonica replacement string. Problem solved.
Hello Love, Just like to say how much I enjoy working with your vids and to ask a question. What about strings for a silent violin since some tonal quality of the instruments just not there. What's a good inexpensive string for playability.
Hey Allison; I have a stentor 2 violin and I'm looking to get new strings. My question is whether the Obligato strings are worth the money to put on as opposed to my other option (the dominants). If the improvement won't be drastically noticable then I won't bother with the price jump. thanks!
+michael morrell Totally up to you, but personally Obligatos are wasted on student violins - in MY personal opinion. I would go for Dominants. They are good quality strings with a 'vanilla' tone flavour to them. Anything above this is wasted as the violin itself isnt good enough to being out the tone of better strings like Obligatos. Having said all that i have not tried them on a SII, and really strings are all about trying them out. If you can afford it and want to, try them and let me know! :)
+The Online Piano and Violin Tutor Well the reason I was looking at the Obligatos was that I love how much warmer the E String sounds and I'm hoping it will make somewhat of a difference on my S2. if it does it will be money well spent. I'll keep you apprised of the outcome.
Okay so I can't figure out which strings to get my violin and it would help me out a lot if you could help me out. I hate the sound of my factory strings, and I've tried the Dominants but I don't really like them either, especially the E string. It's just too sharp. I will be playing both in an orchestra and solo at college. At this point if more money will stop my violin from sounding so bad I'm willing to spend more. Any recommendations?
I dont know what violin you have or what it sounds like. The point of this video I made was to inform people of the potential sound difference these strings will make on a violin, from there, you then decide what sound/tone you do and dont like about your violin and buy accordingly. If you want something warm and less bright, then find some strings that say they are going to give you a warm sound. Its simple - you have to do your research. I reviewed a fair bunch of strings here so the answer to these is in this video. For other strings, you need to look online and see what they say.
Thank you for your comprehensive review. Could you possibly have a look at some cheap strings I bought for my 'self-built' electric violin. I am intermediate level I would say. They are Adagio Pro at £6.99. They have 4.6 star rating from 50 reviews. I found them very good for the price. I broke the E string and they replaced it free!
Hi,i would like to ask,when is it time to change the violin strings?for example,i haven't touched my violin in about 2 years and am deciding on playing it again.should i change the strings?
I can't seem to find any opinion on Yehudi strings. I haven't ordered any yet, but there is a set that comes with a dominant E string, and I figured it would be nice to have a (presumably) better set of strings when my violin comes in (I don't get paid until the end of the month and can't afford a good set of strings on my own right now, but plan to get either tonica or dominant strings later). Also, what kind of coating do you typically use for your strings? (Steel, silver, tin, etc.) And what do the numbers (135, 129, 130, etc) mean? This is my first violin, so I'm not really sure what I'm doing. ^^; Please help. (Love your videos, by the way. I've learned a lot already!) (Also, there aren't really any violin shops near where I live - and there are no string programs until you reach university, which I'm still miffed about, but meh - just woodwind and guitar shops. Also, sorry if I seem REALLY noobish, but I am. ^^;)
torielric I have no experience with Yehudi strings. I have personally had and tried most brands, but not these. The coating is dependant on the brand. I cant choose it. I choose strings based on the tone they will generally give combined with the tone of my own violin. Im not sure what the numbers mean, but it seems like a series of numbers specific to that brand - their website will tell you. It might mean the tension. I would go for medium tension if i were you.
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor After I wrote this I remembered the prelude strings, and am looking into those. I was looking for medium tension strings after seeing this video (I took notes). Thanks for the help! I can almost get the prelude set, so I'll ask my mom for help getting them (my birthday is two weeks). Thanks for all the wonderful videos!
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor I did find a violin shop in the city where I go to university. My dad knows one of the guys who works there. I popped in to take a look and the man there let me practice on one of their violins! I had the totally wrong idea about how much pressure to put on the strings. He said my bow hold was good, though! He had me try to get a constant tone on each string for the entire length of the bow, and before I knew it an hour had passed! I love the violin even more now! He said when my violin comes in he would make sure nothing was overly wrong with it.
Hi MS alison.I just got a new set of pirastro tonicas and I know new strings have to be broken in I have to tune it every 15 min or so,how long does this last before they stay in tune?Thank you for your time
Alison, a question if I may. I bought a mixed-set of JSI Special 4/4 Violin String Set: Gold Label Ball-End E & Dominant A, D, and G Strings - Medium Gauge for my beginner violin after watching this and a few other videos. They are a definite improvement over the stock strings. MUCH less scratching and mellower tone. My question is that the Gold e-string has a little bit of yellow plastic on it, what I'd might incorrectly refer to as a ferrule. Is this supposed to be there (I googled and saw no reference to such things on the string's description page and other sources), and if so, what's the purpose. I assumed it goes on the bridge to protect the bridge groove from such a fine string, but that could be completely wrong. Thanks so much for this and all of your other videos.
Yes, the teenie tiny tube goes over the bridge to prevent the string from cutting in from the pressure of the bow over time and to also stope the string breaking. Its quite important to have it there.
Hello, I would like your advice on what strings to get for my viola. I like the Pirastro line, but there is so much to choose from. My viola is advanced and has a worm tone as well as a soloist projection. I often play cello suites. Money is not a problem. What is your thoughts?
Its up to you. Like i said in the vid i cant recommend as i dont know what you have, but i spent hours researching the strings and telling you what they are like so you could make that decision. Im afraid without really playing your viola i would be just having a guess - plus im not a viola player and violas are different to violins and you may want a totally different tone to what i would have in mind as im a violin player. Also, its all an experiment - i dont know the outcome of each brand on any violin/viola either. Have a watch again of the video and see what you think from my research.
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor well this was expected. I rilly did not know who to tern to advise to which strings to perches do to my viola is very picky on what strings I put on it. I tried all sorts of strings, but most rejected when they "opened" exept obligato and evah parzzie. I will stick with one of the two. thanks though for your time. (:
WHEW! What an overview of strings! I'm aiming to get a Wood violin Viper, tuned for "guitar tuning". They say it comes from their shop with Super Sensitive strings, yet, Wood doesnt sell the strings, and SS doesnt sell a custom set...maybe they sell individual strings to the public, but they didnt say. I looked into string prices...from $15 for Daddario, to $50 for ONE string from Thomastik. Jeez, for a 6 string, thats about $90 to $300. The gauges for the violin strings are as follows (from high to low): E-9g, A-15g, D-25g, G-27g, C-38g, F-49g E = 9g = For the high E string, take a violin D string and tune it up a whole step. B = 15g = For the B string, tune up a violin A string a whole step. G = 27g = For the G, you can use a regular violin G. D = 25g = For the D, use a viola C and tune it up a step. A = 38g = For the A, take a viola C and tune it down a minor 3rd to A. E = 49g = For the low E, use a violin F and tune it down a half step to E. [the G and D seem to be backward, in the sequence of tensions...] I would be a noobie to violin strings [I play guitar]. Could you elaborate on: -How long do strings last? -When to change them? Like when they wont tune, get rusty/squeaky, or break. -What is close to the SS brand? many thanks!
1. Depends on the strings and how much you play them. It could be anywhere from 1 month to a couple of years. If you play every day, then maybe 6 months before you start hearing a difference. 2. Links to number 1 3. I don’t know of anything similar to the SS brand.
I found the Hill E to go great with Violino's on a very bright violin to calm it down. The Pirastro Gold E was still too harsh, but the Eudoxa E was too weak, though that one turned out to be wonderful and warm with a set of Obligato's on a sweet violin.
This is great thank you so much. I do have a question and I apologize if it was already answered, been reading a lot today. Q: Can I use the recommended student level strings on a student level electric violin? I am getting the Cecilio CEVN Electric Silent Violin you reviewed. I can not have an acustic because of neighbors. Thank you for your time. I love how you teach, very clear and informative.
1. Yes you can. they are not great by any means and replacing them with D'Addario Helicores will make a massive difference, but it is not crucial you do so.
+The Online Piano and Violin Tutor, thank you. I went to a shop 40 minutes away and I decided on renting. The lady said the violin is $600 and its a Samuel Eastman VL 100. Have you heard of it? Any advice? my dream is an electric so I can play with my boyfriend. he plays electric gutar. I can save up for $1,000 violin in 3 months or so
I have a Romanian violin that has Spirit Varnish. I have D'Addarío Pro Arté strings. When I play harmonics (especially when the harmonic is two octaves above the string I'm playing on), it sounds "foggy" and weak. I'm pressing firmly on the string like I should, and I'm using the correct amount of bow pressure. Could this be due to the strings not being good enough, or is it my violin itself?
After months of headaches with the harshly shrill Dominant e string, I'm happy with the nice and tender Eudoxa e string. The lady in my new favorite violin maker shop did not tolerate my choice to add a Tonica e string. She was right, Eudoxa fits perfectly in with those other three Dominant synthetics strings--better even than the Dominant e string did. I guess Dominants are good for people who want a harshly dominant descant to pierce through in orchestras. But I'm afraid it might make neighbors get upset for it makes the instrument shriller. In my taste, I found it really-really nasty, so it kept me from using the e string for months.
I just put Thomastik PRAZISION on my MV400. Nice set of string and they stay in tune after 5 minute YEY. For 40$ CDN (almost half the price of the violin lol)I have less scratch sound from the A string now. I do ear the improuvment. Next the bow .
Great job on the video! I changed my strings to D'addario Helicores. On my Mendini 500. And they have a very responsive, slightly bright sound. Except the E string. It's not very responsive. For any Mendini players out there.(student grade) I've read where D'Addario Helicores & Preludes, Pro-Arte strings are good . Even more recommended were Thomastik-Infeld Reds. Of which I think i'll experiment with.
Evangeline Elias Yes, thanks. I heard that somewehre else also. On my violin it's actually The G and the E. That are a little dull. Do you play a Mendini also. what singular type strings. do you recommend?
Tom Vasile I don't play a Mendini, and unfortunately I can't recommend anything really.. D: I haven't had the chance to buy many sets. With choosing E's sometimes they can whistle when playing double stops/string crossing and this may or may not be your fault depending on how technically well-off your bowing is. Sometimes when If I find that a particular E is whistling too much with no contact of the left hand at all, I will change it and the problem will be fixed.
If I can add something from myself - Pirastro Tonicas has new formula for some years now and they are different to what you had in your video :-) also, to whoever is a fan of the old tonicas, they are like £7 in aliexpress ;-) you will have to wait for them longer but they're cheap as potatos. Thank you for awesome videos!
Hello!. Good videos. What do you recommend for a electroacoustic violin? I have a 5 string violin with the fabric strings. Bit i want something better (it use an extra C string, wich can be from a 14" viola or 4/4 violin special 5 string set). Wich of all alternatives can be the best for my violin?. PD. I Love all your violin videos ^^.
Thanx a lot! ^^ i see all your violin strings review. I already decided Helicore would be my best option (y play popular songs an rock) it'll be awesome, the Helicore are electric violin strings, and can be used to play rock, folk and others in acoustic viiolins/fiddles. Maybe it is the best option. You're my muse, i will make my youtube channel with luthier and playing tutorials for violin in spanish. I'm very exited. THANKS A LOT :D.
It's not so much the strings or the type of instrument you play. It actually is more of the musician in the hands that are creating the music. That goes for just about every instrument. An incredible player can make a cheap instrument sound really great and a novice player can make an incredibly expensive instrument sound only so-so.
I just put Dominant on my violin, changing the D'addario ProArte I've been using for a few months. So far I don't like them that much, but since put them yesterday I'll need to wait a week or so for the strings to break in.
+D. Løan Yes, Doms have no particular tone, but they are bright, clean and clear and very smooth to play on plus last bloody ages! Its the trade off....
Question: violin is southwest string Klaus Muller Etude that came with Prelude string. Do I need to replace it? If so, Tónica is a good choice? Thanks :)
Would the Dominant Preludes be a good choice for the Mendini MV 500 I just bought last night? Was tuning today and broke the G string :(. If so do I need all ball or all loop end as it has 4 individual fine tuners. ( I am a month old newbie self teaching thanks to you!)
+Ted Wagner I dont know what Dominant preludes are, but Dominants are a brand/make of string and Preludes are a separate brand of string. If there is such a string as Dominant Preludes, then I dont know about them - sorry.
I'm researching the heck out of everything before I buy. My mum is saying to get strings called Corelli crystal, what do you think of those? I'm wanting dominants you recommended but need to give her suggestion a chance lol
I have been playing for ten years and use dominants on d and a, gold on e but, have not been able to find a g string that gives a darker tone on my bright violin. Do you have any suggestions? My teacher at school told me to try evahs or gut strings, but I have not had good results with either,
Have you ever tried any of the Thomastik strings? (Besides Dominant) Like Vision, Infeld Red, Infeld Blue, Spirit, Spirocore, Prazision, Peter Infeld, Vision Solo, Vision Titanium Solo......There are alot them
Everett Borman Not many, but I prefer Pirastros as they tend to respond better to older more expensive antique violins as you can bend the tone etc with the type of string you put on. There are ALOT of strings to try so it takes a lot of time and money to try them out, only to decide they suck lol
hello, I saw your reviews and I decided to buy a cecilio cvn500, I have never played violin but i play the guitar and the piano so I wanted to buy something that sounds good and wasn't too cheap. Would you recommend to change the strings to get a better tone or should I keep the ones that comes with the violin?
Do you recommend strings with steel or synthetic core for beginners? Also in one of videos you review Forenza violin witch comes with rope core strings, what is your opinion on that kind of strings?
Im never keen on steel strings for student violins as they usually make them sound 'colder' and harsher. Just my personal opinion of course. There is nothing wrong with synthetic core strings - most strings are either steel, synthetic or gut anyway. My favourite strings are Obligatos and they are synthetic, but they are warm. Its all baout what each string is meant to do, what your violin is like and what you do and dont want to bring out/suppress etc.
I’m considering changing my strings on my new student violin soon. They came with red label strings. I’m considering Pirastro Chromcor. Do you have any knowledge or opinion of these?
Hello Alison I got my first violin 2 days ago and today while tuning the G string I broke it (I fell so stupid). I'm thinking of getting a set dominants is it a good idea?and when I get better I wanna look for more dark and Melo strings what do recommend? P.S. I'm so sorry for bothering you and even more sorry if the questions are stupid.
Hi Alison, Just wondering, what strings do you have on your electric Violin? Do you use the same ones as on your acoustic or does it not matter as much? Thanks :)
+ArdiraLightsworn Yes, you can use the same, but personally I always use D'Addario Helicores as they are just GREAT for elec violins. I would never use Helicores on my acoustic though - only electric.
Hello mam, I bought a new violin from online shop last week But I don't find out to tune my violin properly.This is too hard for me because when I'm tried to increase the pitch from pigs and I compared to the violin tuner, It didn't match but became very tight and My 'E-string' was break....Now How to fix this??? Please reply me soon .Thank you
TheHappynot Totally depends on what sound/tone you want and what your violin is already like. I cant really recommend as such because i dont know these factors but if you watch the video, I tell you a little about what to expect from each string which should help you choose what you want.
Allison i need to ask something my violin strings are pirastro tonica and it is a student strings violin and my g string is turning a golden yellowish colour do i need to ask my teacher to change my strings Thank you allison (please reply as soon as possible)
Hey! Do you have any opinion about pyramid strings? They go for about 30€ the set the most basic ones, I've read good things about the cheapest type, but I'm looking for a comparison. :D
I've used D'Addarios on my guitars for years and years now. I've tried all the others and I've never found anything that D'Addario cannot compete with. I have to assume that they wouldn't be an issue for my violin, so that's what I've been using without issue. They are a bit bright, but I can make other modifications to my sound very easily through my effects, EQ or amplifier. I don't mind them straight acoustic either. I have never tried the super high-end strings just because I feel like I can control the tone in so many other ways, especially through my hands. The only thing that really bothers me about any strings are strings that break too easily or don't last too long. If they fade but don't snap, they are good with me. I can change them then when I want to as opposed to being forced to. I am curious what a wound E string would sound like. I don't know any fiddle players who use them, so I've never heard anything other than what's posted on YT
Do you have an opinion on d'addario zyex strings? And (this is a very variable questions) how do you generally define a student violinist (what level/how many years?)
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor I've been trying lots of different strings this year on several violins, and I found that D'Addario Pro-Arte are very good, for the money. But, I think my favorite so far are the Thomastik-Infeld Red, with the gold-plated E. I found really good deals on eBay, too.
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor I love my Zyex core strings (the ones in the bright orange package, not the steel core ones in the gray & blue pack). They settle in within hours, keep their tuning, are very responsive, and have an amazing sound right out of the package. List price is about $96/60 pounds a set but you can find them on Amazon or eBay for about half that. Here's a link: www.amazon.co.uk/DAddario-DZ310S-4M-Composite-Strings/dp/B0002Q0V4C I recently bought a violin that had Dominants on it and got rid of them as soon as I could in favor of these (I found the Dominants flat and dead-sounding in comparison, but then again I have no idea how old they were either...)...
rabidplotbunny tota;ly depends on your violin. Strings do have their own flavour and tone etc, but putting the right combination of strings with just the right violin makes for a really good sound so what suits yours wot suit mine etc. I have been sent some Pro Arte, Hellicore and Zyex to try out so i will do a vid as soon as i have some feedback...
thanks you for your attention to detail as usual! one question, i was considering some pirastro piranito strings, they are $10 cheaper than the tonica strings, do you think you would find much difference in quality for that $10? thanks in advance ^_^
I dont know those im afraid, but the Tonicas are very basic and although a step up from the factory ones you get, they are not my choice as I would prefer to put on Dominants which are more than Tonicas. If you go cheap, you will get a cheap sound and really defeat the point of putting on better strings. There is a limit to how much you should spend on a better set on a cheap violin, but equally if you go cheap, then whats the point of that. Do you see what i mean? I would either stick with Tonicas or go one better and get Dominants with a Gold Label E string which is only a few dollars for the E. That will give you a lovely sound and you will forget how much you have spent on the Dominants and Gold Label E as you should be pleased with the sound. The Tonicas are a little tinny for my liking, but.....they are good strings none the less. You could try D'Addario Preludes....?
ok, thanks ^_^ its only a student violin on the cheaper side of things, and im pretty sure strings here are marked up substantially, but i may just have to save up for them (dominants here are $70 minimum that i have found!) the D'Addarios are much more in my price range though, but are the same price as the Pirastro Pirentes, which is why i was wondering, lol ^_^ anyhow, if you think they would be better value, i will give them a go! thanks, and have a lovely day!
Ah i see, unfortunately I dont know anything about Pirentes and if they are in the same price bracket then there is prob not much difference in terms of quality. If you go to the Pirastro website then im sure it will tell you about the Pirentes as in what tone they give etc and you can make your choice. The D'Addarios are marginally above the really cheaper ones, but slightly below intermediate ones if you see what i mean. Dominants are middle of the road and prob the most and highest you should go for a student violin. Dominants are as 'low' as I would go for my violin - hope that makes sense to you.
I have dominant strings on my violin and for some reason the G and D string started to produce a raspy fuzzy sound. The A and E string play beautifully, but the G and D string are awful. This irritates me. I have only had these strings for 3 months. There isn't a luthier near me so I can't get any insight. Any suggestions? Can I send you a video of me playing my violin and hopefully suggest something.
adroit433 you can send me a video but there is still nothing i can d po im afraid as it could be a number of things, none if which i can help with unless i have your violin in my hands. It could be the violin, it could be the strings or it could be you. Sorry, but i just cant help on this one. Sorry
hi as i have told you that its been 3 months i have started learning violin i have a kaps mv001 violin which is chinese and the string is ordinary very cheap aluminium alloy steel core strings ....and i have bought Pirastro Tonica ...so my question is should i change the violin string or change it after i learn some more? i know it will make a lot of difference if i change but can u highlight the changes... i like warmth .... i will change again to obligato or olive after i reach a very advance level which i think will be roughly after a year.... my teacher said i am a fast learner... 😊
hello prof. great informative channel ... in three day insaw alot and alot of ur video .... i wanna ask u about thomastik strings. .. what is ur coment about it
This helped me out so much, my G & D string was sounding kind of raspy, so I decided to check out the Pirastro Tonicas. Would you recommend the Super Sensitive Red Label Pearl strings?
I find that violin strings are terribly expensive in London. I went to a shop called JP Guiver and they quoted 90 pounds for a set of Peter Infeld strings ! It is available for exactly half the price in any shop in Singapore
Hey my G string just snapped and broke and my other strings are out of tune but they are still tight . my violin now has three strings left and would it effect the sound post and make it fell out
These are great videos. One thing I do to make all my strings last longer is wipe them down with a piece of chamois to remove the oils from the fingers. Corrosion is a major enemy of string life. I always to that before I put the violin away. Chamois can also remove built up rosin on the strings, near the bridge. I pinch the chamois on the string and rub it so it makes that sound of squeaky chalk on a blackboard. When there's no more squeak, the string is clean.
Same! I have to clean it every time I finish playing otherwise I feel bad for the violin being dirty. :c
James Tunnicliffe I have a 80 year Italian violin that I'm renting for the next three years from my high school I don't know if I should invest in 50$ strings help
Marvin Wonders definitely! Strings make a HUGE difference!
There's no reason to clean the rosin off the string, it just makes it harder for the bow to get good contact with the string if it's flawlessly clean and slippery. Only clean the fingerboard area, and the wood underneath the bridge of the violin of rosin.
@@alexestrella7103 no
I really admire your dedication and commitment that you pour in each video!
thank you - this video took A LOT of research to do and im hoping its not useless lol :)
thanks i was curias about witch 1 2 get violin exam tomorow and theory today
As a violin maker i get asked this question a lot by students and traditional players. From now on i'll refer them to this review. Well done.
I cannot praise the D'Addario Prelude strings highly enough. I have them on my $40 wonder duct tape violin (long story), and despite the duct tape, that poor little violin just SINGS.
A bit late but I cannot be the only one at least interested in the long story
Talha Acar No, you’re not.
I am too
Spill it, in a video, featuring the star of the convo..
Need visuals of the violin!
Love your videos. I recently started playing the violin and your videos have been super helpful and informative 😊
i play on d’addario helicore strings, and i love them. they hold their tune unbelievably well, and the g and d strings and wonderfully warm and rich, and the a and e are beautifully bright and clear.
We've had a week of near-hundred-degree temps here in L.A. I think the D'Addario Preludes are going to be the first ones I try. Thank you for such a comprehensive video.
My teacher said when I got a violin put Dominants on it. I did so and it mellowed it out considerably, which was great. I hadn't realised there was such a variety available - I'm new to the violin but I've been playing the viola da gamba for a few years and we've got a much more limited selection (presumably because there're not as many gamba players). We use almost exclusively gut strings, and I'm quite tickled by the most expensive strings in this video being £84 for a set of super-quality gut strings. I can pay that for one single lower string on my bass viol...
Still, clearly as my violin playing improves there's a lot of scope to tweak the sound with different stringing all within very reasonable budgets. Hurrah!
This video was very helpful in helping me choose my strings. Thank you very much!
I'm in L.A. love watching your videos, they are very helpful. I'm an advanced guitarist but a beginner violin player. So your videos are worth gold! Thanks again!
I personally get inspired by your videos, I'm a student and watching your vidoes really help me! I wish you had your own company; I'd trust any product you put on the market!! Thanks for the inspiration and information.
welcome
I have to say, I'm done with PIRASTRO Gold No. 900300. Just read a guy in the U.S. who hates it because it constantly crumbles off his bow, so he has to rub it on again and again. This is exactly my problem--at least as long I play Dominant Synthetics. In the store they had told me it would be fine for synthetic strings, but I just found out, it's suited for GOLD GUT! A couple hours ago I told the seller to order Dominant rosin for synthetics--I wonder why they never have it on store, as they sell Dominant Synthetic strings. I really had to learn it the hard way, but now I have lots of hope this annoyance will be over soon.
That evil rosin gets scratchy sometimes too. I don't know how this is possible, but suddenly it sticks more and than it's way too much. But mostly it doesn't stick enough ends up like snow on my strings. Could it be possible, it responds to heat, if I turn on the radiator more? Or it's really to use for gut only and this is the mistake.
+The Lady Is a Band hey let us know how the change in strings goes!
inuysha360 I ordered rosin and stick to my Dominant synthetic strings.....until I might change to Larsen one day. I heard them on another channel and liked them a lot. But I won't change strings now.
I got Dominant No.203 rosin yesterday and it works much better now. I don't think my old rosin was bad, but it's just not suited for synthetic strings. There were tiny rosin bulges on my strings before and now it's all smooth. And it sounds better. Warmer.
Dominants it is, going on my Stentor 2. Thanks Al
How did this work out ?
Thank You so very much for making this video . I watch this video every now and then when I'm looking at getting strings just to refresh which you prefer :)
For student violins, i would recommend you try Pirastro Tonicas.
They workd well to brighten and liven up student violins.
"Bob's Your Uncle..." I don't know what that means but it is pretty funny. I love your videos, you have such an upbeat personality.
It means "Robert is the sibling of one of your parents". Has quite a ring to it, doesn't it?
It's the equivalent of "There you go"
Do you have any recommendations for an antique violin? I have inherited my uncles fiddles (we’re a bluegrass family) and his most played fiddle dates back to the 1700’s and possibly as far back as the 1500’s. I don’t wanna put cheap strings on such a beautiful and beloved instrument, any non gut recommendations would be highly appreciated! And now that I’m thinking of it, a video for caring for an antique violin would be amazing!
Very helpful video. Thank you for very much.
I just ended up mixing strings. I hadn't thought of that. I bought some expensive strings, but the E was screeching no matter what I did. I ended up putting Pirastro's on the G, D and A strings and a Jargar on the High E. I had tried the Gold label and kept having issues with the wrap that runs over the bridge (don't know what you call it)
Yes, right today I changed from Dominants to Tonicas and I like it a lot. The pitch is NOT changing if I put pressure on the string, an issue I frankly had with Dominants. To me Dominants are too dark, the last video they shot in my act I find it downright muted, kinda like I had played in bed, under a feather-bed. Tonicas now give me the brilliance I was missing. However, I kept my Eudoxa e string I bought a couple weeks ago. I really hate the Dominant e string, its harshness kinda reminds me of a buzz saw. This really scared me away from using the e string for months. Actually, I should use gut, but it's impossible: sheep are people to me, so I find the idea really shocking to have their guts on my violin.
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ADDENDA: In the meantime I changed my mind and put the Dominants back on. C'mon, they're warm, but not too warm. I shouldn't give too much for a stupid camera microphone's result. Tonicas cannot match Dominants! The only downside is the Dominant e string. It might be capable to break glass......
Hi Alison, this video has answered the questions I threw in on 2 of your vids, I sent them before finding this vid, Thanks!
I think the Dominants are a pretty neutral string that is readily available and not so expensive, so a lot of store will put them on violins if people are going to compare instruments. IF you know how the instrument sounds with dominants you can judge how warm or bright the instrument is and not just if it has bright strings on it. That said, dominants never seem to me to be the best strings for any instrument I have ever had, so I usually change them out fairly quickly.
I have one violin that loves tonicas and sounds very precise and controlled and warm with them; dominants sound dead on it, but it loves tonicas. It is my number 1. My violas mostly get obligatos and a steel A. I use Jarger E strings on my violins as well. I have another Guarnieri model violin that gets the gut strings when I am playing it regularly (usually Eudoxa, but if I am playing a lot and feeling spendy, Olives) Olives are truly lovely, but both of them will wear out faster or if you don't play them and leave them tensioned, they still make eventually break, so you need to play regularly for it to be worth it. I will put obligatos on it if I am playing less regularly because they still sound pretty good, but last longer and don't break as easily if left under tension.
I also have a smaller viola that has helicores on it because it helps it project a little better. My Cello has helicores as well right now. It came with Helicores and sounds good and cello strings are a little pricey to experiment with if your instrument already sounds good as it is.
I do think the thing in the video that is most correct is that you have to match the string with the instrument and also what you want to hear. One person's bright is another person's harsh and one person's warm is another person's muddy or unfocused. We all have a different preferred sound in our head so what I love might be just okay to you and vice versa. I have tried a lot of different strings (synoxa, chorda, D'adarrio, etc.) and it can make you crazy, so I eventually simplified to Tonicas (T's)and Obligatos (O's) and a high quality metal high string unless I have a reason not to (like I want to play gut strings for a while or an instrument doesn't sound good with them). If I play too many brands and models of strings, wanting to have a spare set around becomes a logistical issue. I have 2 spare violin sets (T's and O's) and 1 spare viola set to keep up (O's) with so it's easy.
great video, I really enjoyed it and the thought is provoked.
This is the first time I watched an ad to the end. Still not sure what he was selling but it was entertaining lol.
I just like youtubers when they spend a lot of money to test something for the viewers and I love it. Thank you soo muchh
i have Obligatos on my stradisparagus but I would recommend the silver D as opposed to the aluminum I think the Dominant D had more bite. Actually I don't know really but I do want to try the silver D I hear it may be better better oh and the gold E obligato as opposed to the regular Obligato which is not that bad but you cant beat the Evah gold E \m/ hail!. I am hoping they do last some before I am obligato to purchase another set $. Nice video thank you and you look very nice today. Cheerios.
Took me 3 years to find my idea setup that worked on all 3 of my violins. I wanted something that was familiar so preferred 1 setup and it was hard to find strings that would compliment each violin even if all 3 are similar in characteristic and sound. I ended up with Oliv G stiff heavy gauge, passione A/D medium, Oliv E medium. Love this setup as it keeps the powerful lower strings with stability of the A/D and a golden E that provides the power and warmth in the upper regions.
Hello Teacher ! Please, I need an opinion !
first of all : thank you very much for your excellent video and all your work 😊
My question is: I am a beginner and I have a basic violin with steel strings. I wish to upgrade it a little. I would like to give a warmer and richer/darker tone to my violin so I would like to have the Thomastik Infield Red strings (I can have them at -50% in my country). Do you know them ? However I am afraid because the graph of these strings indicates that they are between easy and demanding to play. So is it a good choice for a beginner ? Or I must chose Dominante or Zyex ?
Thank you very much !
I think that if you have a beginner violin ,spending a lot on strings becomes pointless to a degree because they will not really alter the tone of the violin as the violin is not going to be responsive at that level.
I have not played the Infield strings, but they may be steel (correct me if im wrong). Steel strings on beginner violins can be very loud, harsh and too bright.
Going warm usually means you need softer strings or even gut strings, but they are going to be expensive and wont make your violin sound warm as its a student violin.
If you want a warm violin, you will need to upgrade to a better violin, then choose strings based on that.
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor
A huge thank you for your answer!
The Thomastik Infeld have composite souls. the blue ones have a brilliant sound and the reds have a warm sound.
You are so right for my choice of strings! You avoided me an error !!
I feel exactly what you say with my steel strings, it's cold, sharp and too powerful. I'm going to get some nylon strings for 30 € to start. For now I do not think I have the level to switch to an upgrade violin.
May I ask you another question? What is your point of view on the frets to stick? I hear some teachers say that beginners become dependents of it and that it is harmful for learn. What do you think ?
Being autodidact you are my only violin teacher, and all your advices / videos / answers are worth gold, THANK YOU VERY MUCH ! 💙
You're getting your strings at quite low prices compared to what I've been paying, lucky you. :) I totally agreed with the Evah P e string, great at first but did not survive long on my violin at all! After 2 weeks it went dull, bright but lacking.
Wish you'd do a video on different E strings though.
I play a mix bag , old time , some Cajun . Country etc still looking for the Holy Grail of strings for the old fiddle I like my fiddle singing in a warm smooth tone
Your the women. great information . now i know how to get my instrument to sound like how i imagine. the way i could express how i imagine would be silver. bright, crisp, sharp and clear. like the moon. cool as in temperature thats the sound im looking for
I totally agree about the eva pirazzi string great for a very short time I always go back to good old dominants
I've heard others say as well that Dominants with a Pirastro Gold E is a great combo. KK Music in US - California offers this set.
Thanks, this is what I needed
Wonderful!!, thank you for that comparison it's very useful :)
Greetings from America
Good, honest reviews. Beautiful hazel green eyes.
When you say, Dominants or Tonicas on your student violin, do you mean something like a Stentor II or a Cecilio? Or do you mean student violins in general? I have a Maple Leaf Strings Student Violin, which I currently have Dominants with an Evah Pirazzi E String on, but would it be worth it to put a full set of Evah Pirazzis on? (The student violin I have is 1,000 USD)
Student violin as in a few hundred dollars. its not worth putting anything like Evahs on student violins as 1. its a waste of time and money and wont make any significant difference and 2. there are better strings like Tonicas or Dominants to put on those.
Thanks for your Nice Review...I Got a Question . . I own a 2 year old Chinese violin ,its naturally a mellow sounding instrument....I tried Pirastro obligatos ,wondertone solo and Dominants and tonicas...They all sounded dull(less volume and mellow) on my violin...Please suggest me the strings that would provide a clear , open and bright tone with bigger volume (without harshness as in case of steel strings)...I basically play solos..pls help..
***** perhaps you need something brighter? have you tried strings by D'Addario? Their new Kaplans are great and one in particular called Kaplan Vivos are bright, but still warm.
Here is the video on them and the links are underneath: ruclips.net/video/WUYj6GnRdus/видео.html
Thanks for your reply..I've Tried d'addario golden spiral 'E'...but it sounded metallic... I'm focused towards bright sound and volume without metallic sound...Please Help..
I just got the Dominant G string. Good video as always. I just have a question. Due to the lack of time, because I'm a university student, I stop going to my violin lessons. Is there any book that you can recommend me so I can practice by my self. I was using the suzuki book with my instructor. Mostly I have problems knowing the different notes. Thanks.
I dont really know how far you got or what you can do etc so its really hard for me to suggest what you can do, but why dont you go back to some old Suzuki books and then carry on from thee? That way you are familiar with the structure?
Love your videos, immensely helpful!!!
Very nice video and very helpful. My violin teacher believes the Dominants are the best string. It was nice to hear about some others. I do currently have Dominants on my violin (definitely student quality) and I really like them. The other string I like are Helicores which I have on my viola.
Rebecca Whitford Have you tried Pirastros? Dominants are Ok in my opinion as they are a good quality string, but have no flavour or tone. If you want a good quality professional string, the Dominants are great, but there are some Pirastro strings that can really make your violin sing depending on what you choose - you can also mix them with Dominants...
Thanks for the video. I haven't played my hopf student violin for a while (long story) and now have wrist arthritis but going to try again..however, all the previous Dominant strings are either gone or on their way out. I have never tried any other string and no idea if Dominant are the best on a hopf student or the Pirastro Tonica you mention, but then I read somewhere someone said a string called an Asterion (I might've remembered name wrong but similar to that) suddenly made his hopf come alive. I do vaguely remember that the Dominant G was very sombre and hard to get a good tension or tone on. Bearing in mind my wrist arthritis, and the fact it's a hopf student, which set would you recommend of the three? Many thanks.
Sorry the string recommended was Artisan, not Asterion!
Im afraid I cant really help you with this as I have no idea what a 'Hopf' violin sounds like.
It also depends on what you do and dont want to get out of the violin sound and tone-wise.
The idea of this video for example would be to understand what each string is supposed to do on a violin, then you choose accordingly.
Hello, thank you for always answering our doubts, could you tell me what strings you use for your own violin, and how much are they in toltal? Thank you very much, im very excited for your concert! thank you.
Alison, thank you for your guidance on strings. I'm borrowing my grand nephews 4/4 violin until he grows into it (and I have the dough to replace my Scott Cao Provigny Strad copy) and I was having a problem in higher positions with the D (3rd) string. After watching your videos, I bought a Pirastro Tonica replacement string. Problem solved.
Hello Love, Just like to say how much I enjoy working with your vids and to ask a question. What about strings for a silent violin since some tonal quality of the instruments just not there. What's a good inexpensive string for playability.
A good string for electric violins is D'Addario Helicores. I use them on my elec violins.
Hey Allison; I have a stentor 2 violin and I'm looking to get new strings. My question is whether the Obligato strings are worth the money to put on as opposed to my other option (the dominants). If the improvement won't be drastically noticable then I won't bother with the price jump. thanks!
+michael morrell Totally up to you, but personally Obligatos are wasted on student violins - in MY personal opinion. I would go for Dominants. They are good quality strings with a 'vanilla' tone flavour to them. Anything above this is wasted as the violin itself isnt good enough to being out the tone of better strings like Obligatos. Having said all that i have not tried them on a SII, and really strings are all about trying them out. If you can afford it and want to, try them and let me know! :)
+The Online Piano and Violin Tutor Well the reason I was looking at the Obligatos was that I love how much warmer the E String sounds and I'm hoping it will make somewhat of a difference on my S2. if it does it will be money well spent. I'll keep you apprised of the outcome.
Okay so I can't figure out which strings to get my violin and it would help me out a lot if you could help me out. I hate the sound of my factory strings, and I've tried the Dominants but I don't really like them either, especially the E string. It's just too sharp. I will be playing both in an orchestra and solo at college. At this point if more money will stop my violin from sounding so bad I'm willing to spend more. Any recommendations?
I dont know what violin you have or what it sounds like. The point of this video I made was to inform people of the potential sound difference these strings will make on a violin, from there, you then decide what sound/tone you do and dont like about your violin and buy accordingly.
If you want something warm and less bright, then find some strings that say they are going to give you a warm sound.
Its simple - you have to do your research.
I reviewed a fair bunch of strings here so the answer to these is in this video. For other strings, you need to look online and see what they say.
Are Pirastro Tonica strings loop or ball end because I have a Mendini mv400 and I don't know if they will be compatible. thanks.
Excellent review. Thanks
Thanks, clears up the fog abit..
Thank you for your comprehensive review. Could you possibly have a look at some cheap strings I bought for my 'self-built' electric violin. I am intermediate level I would say. They are Adagio Pro at £6.99. They have 4.6 star rating from 50 reviews. I found them very good for the price. I broke the E string and they replaced it free!
Hi,i would like to ask,when is it time to change the violin strings?for example,i haven't touched my violin in about 2 years and am deciding on playing it again.should i change the strings?
I can't seem to find any opinion on Yehudi strings. I haven't ordered any yet, but there is a set that comes with a dominant E string, and I figured it would be nice to have a (presumably) better set of strings when my violin comes in (I don't get paid until the end of the month and can't afford a good set of strings on my own right now, but plan to get either tonica or dominant strings later).
Also, what kind of coating do you typically use for your strings? (Steel, silver, tin, etc.) And what do the numbers (135, 129, 130, etc) mean? This is my first violin, so I'm not really sure what I'm doing. ^^; Please help. (Love your videos, by the way. I've learned a lot already!)
(Also, there aren't really any violin shops near where I live - and there are no string programs until you reach university, which I'm still miffed about, but meh - just woodwind and guitar shops. Also, sorry if I seem REALLY noobish, but I am. ^^;)
torielric I have no experience with Yehudi strings. I have personally had and tried most brands, but not these. The coating is dependant on the brand. I cant choose it. I choose strings based on the tone they will generally give combined with the tone of my own violin. Im not sure what the numbers mean, but it seems like a series of numbers specific to that brand - their website will tell you. It might mean the tension. I would go for medium tension if i were you.
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor After I wrote this I remembered the prelude strings, and am looking into those. I was looking for medium tension strings after seeing this video (I took notes). Thanks for the help! I can almost get the prelude set, so I'll ask my mom for help getting them (my birthday is two weeks).
Thanks for all the wonderful videos!
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor I did find a violin shop in the city where I go to university. My dad knows one of the guys who works there. I popped in to take a look and the man there let me practice on one of their violins! I had the totally wrong idea about how much pressure to put on the strings. He said my bow hold was good, though! He had me try to get a constant tone on each string for the entire length of the bow, and before I knew it an hour had passed! I love the violin even more now! He said when my violin comes in he would make sure nothing was overly wrong with it.
Still love my set. GDA Dominant + Thomastik E on my Strad, love it so much
i love your vids and i think theyre really helpfull
Hi MS alison.I just got a new set of pirastro tonicas and I know new strings have to be broken in I have to tune it every 15 min or so,how long does this last before they stay in tune?Thank you for your time
About 2-3 weeks for strings to fully settle in assuming you are playing it frequently.
Alison, a question if I may. I bought a mixed-set of JSI Special 4/4 Violin String Set: Gold Label Ball-End E & Dominant A, D, and G Strings - Medium Gauge for my beginner violin after watching this and a few other videos. They are a definite improvement over the stock strings. MUCH less scratching and mellower tone. My question is that the Gold e-string has a little bit of yellow plastic on it, what I'd might incorrectly refer to as a ferrule. Is this supposed to be there (I googled and saw no reference to such things on the string's description page and other sources), and if so, what's the purpose. I assumed it goes on the bridge to protect the bridge groove from such a fine string, but that could be completely wrong. Thanks so much for this and all of your other videos.
Yes, the teenie tiny tube goes over the bridge to prevent the string from cutting in from the pressure of the bow over time and to also stope the string breaking. Its quite important to have it there.
Thanks so much for the quick reply.
Hello, I would like your advice on what strings to get for my viola. I like the Pirastro line, but there is so much to choose from. My viola is advanced and has a worm tone as well as a soloist projection. I often play cello suites.
Money is not a problem.
What is your thoughts?
Its up to you. Like i said in the vid i cant recommend as i dont know what you have, but i spent hours researching the strings and telling you what they are like so you could make that decision. Im afraid without really playing your viola i would be just having a guess - plus im not a viola player and violas are different to violins and you may want a totally different tone to what i would have in mind as im a violin player. Also, its all an experiment - i dont know the outcome of each brand on any violin/viola either. Have a watch again of the video and see what you think from my research.
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor well this was expected. I rilly did not know who to tern to advise to which strings to perches do to my viola is very picky on what strings I put on it. I tried all sorts of strings, but most rejected when they "opened" exept obligato and evah parzzie. I will stick with one of the two. thanks though for your time. (:
WHEW! What an overview of strings! I'm aiming to get a Wood violin Viper, tuned for "guitar tuning". They say it comes from their shop with Super Sensitive strings, yet, Wood doesnt sell the strings, and SS doesnt sell a custom set...maybe they sell individual strings to the public, but they didnt say. I looked into string prices...from $15 for Daddario, to $50 for ONE string from Thomastik. Jeez, for a 6 string, thats about $90 to $300.
The gauges for the violin strings are as follows (from high to low):
E-9g, A-15g, D-25g, G-27g, C-38g, F-49g
E = 9g = For the high E string, take a violin D string and tune it up a whole step.
B = 15g = For the B string, tune up a violin A string a whole step.
G = 27g = For the G, you can use a regular violin G.
D = 25g = For the D, use a viola C and tune it up a step.
A = 38g = For the A, take a viola C and tune it down a minor 3rd to A.
E = 49g = For the low E, use a violin F and tune it down a half step to E.
[the G and D seem to be backward, in the sequence of tensions...]
I would be a noobie to violin strings [I play guitar]. Could you elaborate on:
-How long do strings last?
-When to change them? Like when they wont tune, get rusty/squeaky, or break.
-What is close to the SS brand?
many thanks!
1. Depends on the strings and how much you play them. It could be anywhere from 1 month to a couple of years. If you play every day, then maybe 6 months before you start hearing a difference.
2. Links to number 1
3. I don’t know of anything similar to the SS brand.
Thank you so much!!! You have really helped me.
I found the Hill E to go great with Violino's on a very bright violin to calm it down. The Pirastro Gold E was still too harsh, but the Eudoxa E was too weak, though that one turned out to be wonderful and warm with a set of Obligato's on a sweet violin.
This is great thank you so much. I do have a question and I apologize if it was already answered, been reading a lot today.
Q: Can I use the recommended student level strings on a student level electric violin? I am getting the Cecilio CEVN Electric Silent Violin you reviewed.
I can not have an acustic because of neighbors. Thank you for your time. I love how you teach, very clear and informative.
1. Yes you can. they are not great by any means and replacing them with D'Addario Helicores will make a massive difference, but it is not crucial you do so.
+The Online Piano and Violin Tutor, thank you. I went to a shop 40 minutes away and I decided on renting. The lady said the violin is $600 and its a Samuel Eastman VL 100. Have you heard of it? Any advice? my dream is an electric so I can play with my boyfriend. he plays electric gutar. I can save up for $1,000 violin in 3 months or so
What do you think about the Pirastro chromcor Strings? I am thinking to buy them, Just need some advice before buying them!
Mohit Sagar I have not tried them. sorry
+Mohit Sagar And, ...did you bought them? :D
I have a Romanian violin that has Spirit Varnish. I have D'Addarío Pro Arté strings. When I play harmonics (especially when the harmonic is two octaves above the string I'm playing on), it sounds "foggy" and weak. I'm pressing firmly on the string like I should, and I'm using the correct amount of bow pressure. Could this be due to the strings not being good enough, or is it my violin itself?
Most likely the violin. Its either cheap (sorry i dont mean that rudely) or poorly set up.
After months of headaches with the harshly shrill Dominant e string, I'm happy with the nice and tender Eudoxa e string. The lady in my new favorite violin maker shop did not tolerate my choice to add a Tonica e string. She was right, Eudoxa fits perfectly in with those other three Dominant synthetics strings--better even than the Dominant e string did. I guess Dominants are good for people who want a harshly dominant descant to pierce through in orchestras. But I'm afraid it might make neighbors get upset for it makes the instrument shriller. In my taste, I found it really-really nasty, so it kept me from using the e string for months.
I just put Thomastik PRAZISION on my MV400. Nice set of string and they stay in tune after 5 minute YEY. For 40$ CDN (almost half the price of the violin lol)I have less scratch sound from the A string now. I do ear the improuvment. Next the bow .
Great job on the video! I changed my strings to D'addario Helicores. On my Mendini 500. And they have a very responsive, slightly bright sound. Except the E string. It's not very responsive. For any Mendini players out there.(student grade) I've read where D'Addario Helicores & Preludes, Pro-Arte strings are good . Even more recommended were Thomastik-Infeld Reds.
Of which I think i'll experiment with.
You could try putting different E's with your D'addario Helicores. :o Most people use different E's because they're so cheap to mix and match. :D
Evangeline Elias Yes, thanks. I heard that somewehre else also. On my violin it's actually The G and the E. That are a little dull. Do you play a Mendini also.
what singular type strings. do you recommend?
Tom Vasile I don't play a Mendini, and unfortunately I can't recommend anything really.. D: I haven't had the chance to buy many sets. With choosing E's sometimes they can whistle when playing double stops/string crossing and this may or may not be your fault depending on how technically well-off your bowing is. Sometimes when If I find that a particular E is whistling too much with no contact of the left hand at all, I will change it and the problem will be fixed.
If I can add something from myself - Pirastro Tonicas has new formula for some years now and they are different to what you had in your video :-) also, to whoever is a fan of the old tonicas, they are like £7 in aliexpress ;-) you will have to wait for them longer but they're cheap as potatos.
Thank you for awesome videos!
Hello!. Good videos. What do you recommend for a electroacoustic violin? I have a 5 string violin with the fabric strings. Bit i want something better (it use an extra C string, wich can be from a 14" viola or 4/4 violin special 5 string set). Wich of all alternatives can be the best for my violin?.
PD. I Love all your violin videos ^^.
+Luis Angel Mendoza Martinez I honestly dont know for an electroacoustic violin. I have not played one or know any i can personally recommend. Sorry.
Thanx a lot! ^^ i see all your violin strings review. I already decided Helicore would be my best option (y play popular songs an rock) it'll be awesome, the Helicore are electric violin strings, and can be used to play rock, folk and others in acoustic viiolins/fiddles. Maybe it is the best option.
You're my muse, i will make my youtube channel with luthier and playing tutorials for violin in spanish. I'm very exited.
THANKS A LOT :D.
I just bought a eagle vk 644, would recommend any string in particular to change the factory ones ?
It's not so much the strings or the type of instrument you play. It actually is more of the musician in the hands that are creating the music. That goes for just about every instrument. An incredible player can make a cheap instrument sound really great and a novice player can make an incredibly expensive instrument sound only so-so.
i have obligato strings on my violin and on the e string i have a gold obigato string. i love them somuch they play verry smoothly and sound amazing!!
Great review! I can really agree with everything you said. :-)
I just put Dominant on my violin, changing the D'addario ProArte I've been using for a few months.
So far I don't like them that much, but since put them yesterday I'll need to wait a week or so for the strings to break in.
+D. Løan Yes, Doms have no particular tone, but they are bright, clean and clear and very smooth to play on plus last bloody ages! Its the trade off....
This helps so much, Thank you!!!!
Question: violin is southwest string Klaus Muller Etude that came with Prelude string. Do I need to replace it? If so, Tónica is a good choice?
Thanks
:)
I have never heard of that violin, so I cant advise. Sorry.
Would the Dominant Preludes be a good choice for the Mendini MV 500 I just bought last night? Was tuning today and broke the G string :(. If so do I need all ball or all loop end as it has 4 individual fine tuners. ( I am a month old newbie self teaching thanks to you!)
+Ted Wagner I dont know what Dominant preludes are, but Dominants are a brand/make of string and Preludes are a separate brand of string. If there is such a string as Dominant Preludes, then I dont know about them - sorry.
Online, I found a set of Dominant strings, that came with a Gold Label E string for around the average price of a Dominant set.
I'm researching the heck out of everything before I buy. My mum is saying to get strings called Corelli crystal, what do you think of those? I'm wanting dominants you recommended but need to give her suggestion a chance lol
I have never heard of Corelli Crystal strings.
I have been playing for ten years and use dominants on d and a, gold on e but, have not been able to find a g string that gives a darker tone on my bright violin. Do you have any suggestions? My teacher at school told me to try evahs or gut strings, but I have not had good results with either,
Have you ever tried any of the Thomastik strings? (Besides Dominant) Like Vision, Infeld Red, Infeld Blue, Spirit, Spirocore, Prazision, Peter Infeld, Vision Solo, Vision Titanium Solo......There are alot them
Everett Borman Not many, but I prefer Pirastros as they tend to respond better to older more expensive antique violins as you can bend the tone etc with the type of string you put on. There are ALOT of strings to try so it takes a lot of time and money to try them out, only to decide they suck lol
i am using spirocore right now. it’s veeerryyy warm. maybe too warm... i actually think change them to an evah pirazzi
hello, I saw your reviews and I decided to buy a cecilio cvn500, I have never played violin but i play the guitar and the piano so I wanted to buy something that sounds good and wasn't too cheap.
Would you recommend to change the strings to get a better tone or should I keep the ones that comes with the violin?
You can use the factory strings that come with the 500, but Dominants for example would make it smoother and easier to play - less work with the bow.
Do you recommend strings with steel or synthetic core for beginners? Also in one of videos you review Forenza violin witch comes with rope core strings, what is your opinion on that kind of strings?
Im never keen on steel strings for student violins as they usually make them sound 'colder' and harsher. Just my personal opinion of course.
There is nothing wrong with synthetic core strings - most strings are either steel, synthetic or gut anyway.
My favourite strings are Obligatos and they are synthetic, but they are warm.
Its all baout what each string is meant to do, what your violin is like and what you do and dont want to bring out/suppress etc.
I’m considering changing my strings on my new student violin soon. They came with red label strings. I’m considering Pirastro Chromcor. Do you have any knowledge or opinion of these?
Hello Alison I got my first violin 2 days ago and today while tuning the G string I broke it (I fell so stupid). I'm thinking of getting a set dominants is it a good idea?and when I get better I wanna look for more dark and Melo strings what do recommend?
P.S. I'm so sorry for bothering you and even more sorry if the questions are stupid.
+Mario Escabi i just broke mine :/
Would you suggest the Stantor II or the Cecilia CVN500 Solidwood Ebony for a slightly experienced beginner? (I took lessons for about a year)
The SII and the CVN500 cannot be compared as the 500 is much better. Go for the 500 or 600 ideally...
Hi Alison,
Just wondering, what strings do you have on your electric Violin? Do you use the same ones as on your acoustic or does it not matter as much?
Thanks :)
+ArdiraLightsworn Yes, you can use the same, but personally I always use D'Addario Helicores as they are just GREAT for elec violins. I would never use Helicores on my acoustic though - only electric.
Hello mam, I bought a new violin from online shop last week But I don't find out to tune my violin properly.This is too hard for me because when I'm tried to increase the pitch from pigs and I compared to the violin tuner, It didn't match but became very tight and My 'E-string' was break....Now How to fix this??? Please reply me soon .Thank you
If your E string has snapped, you need to buy a new violin.
I have several videos in my channel on how to tune your violin without breaking strings.
That was my first and new one...Can I buy new E-string from shop?
What would you recommend for the best G string? I'm thinking about a mixed set with D and A Dominants and a Gold label E
TheHappynot Totally depends on what sound/tone you want and what your violin is already like. I cant really recommend as such because i dont know these factors but if you watch the video, I tell you a little about what to expect from each string which should help you choose what you want.
Allison i need to ask something
my violin strings are pirastro tonica and it is a student strings violin and my g string is turning a golden yellowish colour do i need to ask my teacher to change my strings
Thank you allison
(please reply as soon as possible)
I can’t see your strings or see or hear them being played - probably best to ask your teacher.
Hey! Do you have any opinion about pyramid strings?
They go for about 30€ the set the most basic ones, I've read good things about the cheapest type, but I'm looking for a comparison. :D
Estéfano Menger Never heard of them im afraid. Sorry
I've used D'Addarios on my guitars for years and years now. I've tried all the others and I've never found anything that D'Addario cannot compete with. I have to assume that they wouldn't be an issue for my violin, so that's what I've been using without issue. They are a bit bright, but I can make other modifications to my sound very easily through my effects, EQ or amplifier. I don't mind them straight acoustic either. I have never tried the super high-end strings just because I feel like I can control the tone in so many other ways, especially through my hands. The only thing that really bothers me about any strings are strings that break too easily or don't last too long. If they fade but don't snap, they are good with me. I can change them then when I want to as opposed to being forced to. I am curious what a wound E string would sound like. I don't know any fiddle players who use them, so I've never heard anything other than what's posted on YT
I love my combo of strings: Dominants with an Evah Pirazzi E String.
Do you have an opinion on d'addario zyex strings? And (this is a very variable questions) how do you generally define a student violinist (what level/how many years?)
no, but I can....Im intending to do a whole D'Addario string review vid as soon as i get them!
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor I've been trying lots of different strings this year on several violins, and I found that D'Addario Pro-Arte are very good, for the money. But, I think my favorite so far are the Thomastik-Infeld Red, with the gold-plated E. I found really good deals on eBay, too.
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor I love my Zyex core strings (the ones in the bright orange package, not the steel core ones in the gray & blue pack). They settle in within hours, keep their tuning, are very responsive, and have an amazing sound right out of the package. List price is about $96/60 pounds a set but you can find them on Amazon or eBay for about half that. Here's a link: www.amazon.co.uk/DAddario-DZ310S-4M-Composite-Strings/dp/B0002Q0V4C I recently bought a violin that had Dominants on it and got rid of them as soon as I could in favor of these (I found the Dominants flat and dead-sounding in comparison, but then again I have no idea how old they were either...)...
rabidplotbunny tota;ly depends on your violin. Strings do have their own flavour and tone etc, but putting the right combination of strings with just the right violin makes for a really good sound so what suits yours wot suit mine etc.
I have been sent some Pro Arte, Hellicore and Zyex to try out so i will do a vid as soon as i have some feedback...
thanks you for your attention to detail as usual! one question, i was considering some pirastro piranito strings, they are $10 cheaper than the tonica strings, do you think you would find much difference in quality for that $10? thanks in advance ^_^
I dont know those im afraid, but the Tonicas are very basic and although a step up from the factory ones you get, they are not my choice as I would prefer to put on Dominants which are more than Tonicas. If you go cheap, you will get a cheap sound and really defeat the point of putting on better strings. There is a limit to how much you should spend on a better set on a cheap violin, but equally if you go cheap, then whats the point of that. Do you see what i mean? I would either stick with Tonicas or go one better and get Dominants with a Gold Label E string which is only a few dollars for the E. That will give you a lovely sound and you will forget how much you have spent on the Dominants and Gold Label E as you should be pleased with the sound. The Tonicas are a little tinny for my liking, but.....they are good strings none the less. You could try D'Addario Preludes....?
ok, thanks ^_^ its only a student violin on the cheaper side of things, and im pretty sure strings here are marked up substantially, but i may just have to save up for them (dominants here are $70 minimum that i have found!) the D'Addarios are much more in my price range though, but are the same price as the Pirastro Pirentes, which is why i was wondering, lol ^_^
anyhow, if you think they would be better value, i will give them a go! thanks, and have a lovely day!
Ah i see, unfortunately I dont know anything about Pirentes and if they are in the same price bracket then there is prob not much difference in terms of quality. If you go to the Pirastro website then im sure it will tell you about the Pirentes as in what tone they give etc and you can make your choice. The D'Addarios are marginally above the really cheaper ones, but slightly below intermediate ones if you see what i mean. Dominants are middle of the road and prob the most and highest you should go for a student violin. Dominants are as 'low' as I would go for my violin - hope that makes sense to you.
thank you, you have been a wonderful help ^_^
I have dominant strings on my violin and for some reason the G and D string started to produce a raspy fuzzy sound. The A and E string play beautifully, but the G and D string are awful. This irritates me. I have only had these strings for 3 months. There isn't a luthier near me so I can't get any insight. Any suggestions? Can I send you a video of me playing my violin and hopefully suggest something.
adroit433 you can send me a video but there is still nothing i can d po im afraid as it could be a number of things, none if which i can help with unless i have your violin in my hands. It could be the violin, it could be the strings or it could be you. Sorry, but i just cant help on this one. Sorry
hi as i have told you that its been 3 months i have started learning violin i have a kaps mv001 violin which is chinese and the string is ordinary very cheap aluminium alloy steel core strings ....and i have bought Pirastro Tonica ...so my question is should i change the violin string or change it after i learn some more? i know it will make a lot of difference if i change but can u highlight the changes... i like warmth .... i will change again to obligato or olive after i reach a very advance level which i think will be roughly after a year.... my teacher said i am a fast learner... 😊
+Amarnath De With any cheap violin , I would always recommend getting better strings.
hello prof. great informative channel ... in three day insaw alot and alot of ur video .... i wanna ask u about thomastik strings. .. what is ur coment about it
+Hussain Azadyan I have not used them sorry.
Thank you for your work. Most important is, how long is a string on quality. The price is not important but the costs per year.
This helped me out so much, my G & D string was sounding kind of raspy, so I decided to check out the Pirastro Tonicas.
Would you recommend the Super Sensitive Red Label Pearl strings?
I have never tried them as I dont think they are available here i the UK?
oh ok......
I find that violin strings are terribly expensive in London. I went to a shop called JP Guiver and they quoted 90 pounds for a set of Peter Infeld strings ! It is available for exactly half the price in any shop in Singapore
Hey my G string just snapped and broke and my other strings are out of tune but they are still tight . my violin now has three strings left and would it effect the sound post and make it fell out
Why dont you get to a music shop and get a new string??