The strings of the viola are classified into three (3) types: the gut, steel, and synthetic core. In choosing which type is most suitable for you, the following factors should be identified: your techniques and preferences in playing the viola instrument.
Gut Core Strings
This type of string was the very first one to be utilized on violas. From materials made from bird tendons or intestines of lion or sheep, the gut strings eventually evolved to a string core wrapped with metal (e.g. silver and aluminum).
Despite its ability to provide the most intricate sonic quality, violists using these strings should be aware that gut core is less stable in terms of its tone, and quite sensitive to varying temperature and humidity. Aside from that, it has a tendency to go out of tune and has to be replaced more often compared to other types of viola strings.
Synthetic Core Strings
This type of string is considered to be the most developed viola string in today’s generation as it is made of fibers and materials such as nylon. Thus, it can produce a richer and warmer tone and capable of producing a more stable tone compared to gut core strings.
It’s a beloved string for most violists as its material can resist extreme humidity and changes in temperature. Moreover, it is quick to adjust once it has been installed in the viola, thus able to hold their original intonation over time.
Steel Core Strings
The steel core strings, on the other hand, has the capability of holding a pitch well compared to gut core strings. Since it’s designed to have a small diameter compared to the rest of viola strings, it can provide the violists with a bright and focused tone. This is also the reason why steel core strings are frequently used by electric viola players as it can provide better tone quality in the amplification systems.
Here are some of the most commended viola strings in the market:
- Thomastik-Infeld – Dominant
These strings are made from synthetic perlon or nylon core and claim to be flexible, stable, able to sustain good pitch while providing its violists with a warm tone.
- Thomastik-Infeld – Spirocore
Another popular string from the brand is its steel core gut strings that is patronized by both beginners and professionals. Dubbed as responsive, the Spirocore has the ability to bring out the power and brightness of the viola instrument.
- Pirastro – Evah Pirazzi
A favorite by most soloists, the Pirastro are made from synthetic core that gives violists not only a complex and warm tone but also superb projection and responsiveness.
- Pirastro – Obligato
Another viola string from Pirastro is the Obligato that can maintain its stability despite changes in temperature and humidity while maintaining a clear and dazzling tone.
- Larsen
As a steel core string, the Larsen has a darker and more powerful tone and sound than most of its competitors. While it is not as thorough to any synthetic-made core strings, it’s still considered a quality viola string and can be purchased at a cost-effective price.
By now, you should be able to identify yourself if the quality of the viola strings you’ll be looking at is made of good quality. However, if there are still doubts about whether or not you can make good judgment, it’s still the best idea to bring along with you a professional violist that can provide you with options on the viola strings that you should obtain. Not only that, but they can also help you choose other things your viola will need like a case and other accessories.
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