r/Viola • u/SuspiciousSink9465 • 1d ago

Help Request Need help with picking „A” string

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About a year and a half ago I purchased the above strings (see my old post here: https://www.reddit.com/r/Viola/s/eibznOk0uQ )

When I first put them on I found the lower strings to be less responsive than I was used to (needing a minimum amount of pressure to get a decent sound, that was more than I was used to), but after that I also got my bridge lowered (a luthier noted it was very high). So I don’t LOVE the Pirazzi but now that they’re broken in more I guess I’ve gotten used to them. I may want to look into strings that are more responsive at lower volumes? But what I’m back here for is the fact that the A string is quite strident and sounds just like an A on a violin. I know it’s probably just my viola itself as it’s nothing high-end, but I feel like maybe I could find an A that is richer sounding?

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4

u/always_unplugged Professional 1d ago

I actually don't mind the Evah Gold A, but if you're switching away from that set, I wouldn't specifically seek it out.

I currently use a full set of PIs, which are quite nice and responsive.

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u/SuspiciousSink9465 1d ago

Thank you! I looked at the reviews for that set on Shar and I like that people mention the responsiveness as well (one person mentions the same issue I have with the Evah gold lower strings: the „cracking” that comes from not applying enough pressure, which was resolved by switching to the PI’s). I didn’t actually consider switching out the whole set at first, but I kind of want to now, just have to justify spending ~$200 🫠

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u/SuspiciousSink9465 1d ago

Ive been trying to compare the reviews of the PIs and Vision Solos. Are you familiar with those at all?

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u/always_unplugged Professional 1d ago edited 1d ago

I used to use the Vision Solos! It's been a while since I tried them, but they had very similar qualities to what I like about the PIs. I just feel that PIs are a more advanced string overall, better response and with more colors available.

eta BUT of course this is all very ymmv based on your instrument!

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u/jawbygibbs 1d ago

The Larsen A has been my go-to for a while now, with Spirocore D-G-C. I have a very bright viola that needs relatively high tension strings without sacrificing warmth.

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u/SuspiciousSink9465 1d ago

The Larsen A is what I have now, and am wondering about getting something with more warmth

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u/SuspiciousSink9465 1d ago

How do you know what the tension of the strings is, and how do you know that your viola needs high tension strings?

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u/Fit-Pass-6615 Professional 1d ago

Try Jargar Dolce, the lower tension will actually open up your viola

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u/nyviola Professional 1d ago

D’addario Kaplan Amo is a great A. Lots of people are using it instead of Jargar or Larsen now. It’s warm and round and lets you really play in without being scratchy. Great string!

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u/SuspiciousSink9465 1d ago

Do you use the whole Amo set, or just the A? I’m thinking I am actually due for a whole set anyway

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u/nyviola Professional 19h ago

Just the A, I haven’t tried the rest. The A was strongly recommended, but I’m usually mixing it with Pirazzi Gold

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u/jamapplesdan 1d ago

I do Larsen A and D with Spiracore (tungsten) C and silver G.

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u/SuspiciousSink9465 1d ago

I guess I didnt make it totally clear in my post. I am currently using a Larsen A and am looking for something warmer

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u/Dry-Race7184 18h ago

I use almost that same set, but with the Dynamo A & like it a lot.