In the last decade, new strings have permeated the musical scene. I can recall only a few choices for strings while in high school. Do I choose Oliv by Pirastro with a gut core or Dominant by Thomastik-Infeld with a synthetic core? New synthetics, synthetic and steel, stainless steel, ropecore steel, composite, perlon, and gut strings are now available. How do I know which to buy? Know your instrument's tone, the sound quality and style of playing you do, and your price range.
Types of Strings
I divide strings into three types: gut core, synthetic and synthetic blend core, and steel strings. Specific string types are endowed with unique qualities. I will generalize each string category type with its pros and cons. Please keep in mind there are exceptions for each category.
Gut core strings have been used for hundreds and even thousands of years. On string instruments, gut core strings typically have a beautiful, rich sound full of resonance and overtones. Gut core strings may need to be retuned more frequently than synthetic and steel, take days to hold pitch, are highly influenced by temperature and humidity, and may need to be changed more frequently depending upon individual playing factors. Personally, gut strings are a love-hate relationship. I relish the sound but dislike the pitch fluctuations from a change in humidity.
Synthetic core strings have made a huge impact upon professional and student performance ability. Synthetic strings quickly hold pitch, are not easily influenced by humidity, and provide options to customize bright and dark tones with your instrument. Sound is clear, focused, and responsive, however synthetics cost in the mid to upper range for strings.
Steel strings are bright, hold pitch in minutes, and are frequently used for beginners due to cost. Steel strings require a fine tuner for each string. The increased number of electric amplified instruments and the demand for beginner instruments have allowed the steel string market to flourish. Steel strings tend to be more affordable, but lack a full depth to their sound.
Application
Traditional professional symphony orchestras do not use steel strings. The sound quality is undesirable. Synthetic and gut strings are used. Beginner quality instrument rentals have steel strings. Their cost is appropriate for the rental program and are inexpensive to replace. Steel strings are finding their way into electric violins, violas, and five string violins. The electronic amplification and sound management takes care of tone quality and sound volume. Fiddle players are using high end steel strings as they provide a clear, bright sound that is stylistically appropriate.
When performing, I personally use Evah Pirazzi by Pirastro as I find the strings to be responsive, have consistent tone quality across the instrument, and last longer than other brands. In all other applications, I use Dominant by Thomastik-Infeld. As a private teacher, string choice is dependent upon style and ability. Beginners and electric instruments typically use steel strings. I recommend synthetic core strings as they create a great sound for all students.
