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I wanted to try a new set of strings for my violin, so I decided to go for the Peter Infelds because a lot of people seem to like them. I did a short recording on both sets of strings (Vision Solo/Westminster E and Peter Infeld/Optima Goldbrokat E.) The difference between the two are massive, unfortunately it doesn't seem like the mic picked it up as well. The recordings were made on two different days to allow the new strings to settle in. Same distance to the mic.
The Goldbrokat string is slightly harder to finger, but it's still a comfortable string to play. Something to get used to I suppose. The Goldbrokat make a clearer sound higher up on the string. Less bow pressure needed to make a good sound. So far the string hasn't whistled, but I've only been playing it for a short period of time. Overall I'm pleased with this one.
The PI are similar to the VS in regards of bowing and fingering, but it's a lot brighter than the VS. Personally I don't mind that at all, I like bright/brilliant sounding violins. It doesn't sound harsh or being overly piercing. They seem louder and more direct as well. I'm as of yet unsure of which one of the strings I prefer. But for a starting point these strings are pretty good, and I'm eager to see how they sound like when they have fully settled in. Out of curiosity, which string combo do you like the most on my violin?
'Armed with theory, practice becomes meaningful. Through practice, theory becomes fulfilled.' - Egon von Neindorff.
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@HP
Ok, I listened a few times. I backed the video up and fast forwarded to hear certain parts back to back with the different strings.
I definitely love the Peter Infeld w/Optima Goldbrokat E. That set gives a much fuller sound a d still a bright sound. The lower notes on the PI sound better than the Vision, also.
The Goldbrokat E vs Westminster E: The Goldbrokat E is definitely better than the Westminster E. The Goldbrokat E is bright, not harsh, but pure. The Westminster E sounded harsh and a sharpish sort of bright. I think that no matter how you bowed it, that is the characteristic of the Westminster E. I think the Goldbrokat E is just a warm bright that will continue to be so because it sounds like that is the characteristic of that string. That is what it sounds like to me.
The PI vs Vision strings: the PI strings have so much more clear pure sound to them. I think the Vision are brash bright. Like the E strings, I believe it is their particular characteristics. I think the PI will retain that pure brightness that brings out the beauty of your violin. I do not think it is due to their freshness on the strings. I say this because it is such and defined warm pure brightness.
This was after multiple viewings, backing up and fast forwarding to hear specific spots on each set back to back.
This was just so interesting. I love it when non-professional setups are used to compare strings. No fussing has been done to enhance the sound or add to the projection. This was a clean accurate test.
Thank you, HP. That was fun! 
Learn Violin and Fiddle
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I also vote for the PI and Lenzner E combo.
Great that you are experimenting with strings. 😁
"The richest person is not the one who has the most,
but the one who needs the least."
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@Mouse Thank you for the in depth analysis. I think you're right about a lot of the things you say. The PI strings are so unfamiliar. I think I need some time to get used to them. I found it difficult to play in tune because I'm so familiar with what the VS sounded like when it was in tune. I don't have perfect pitch, I can't say I've a good relative pitch either. So I rely on having a sound memory and match the sound with the pitch. I find it difficult to listen and play with others that have a different sounding violin as well. However I'll most likely find the strings even more enjoyable when the joy of new strings, aka having to tune every 5 minute or so, passes.
'Armed with theory, practice becomes meaningful. Through practice, theory becomes fulfilled.' - Egon von Neindorff.
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They have such different sounds that it will take a bit of playing to get used to their lovely sound and the touch. I find that with violin, viola and cello strings. I really like the PI better. Much stronger sound and less “student” sounding, if that makes sense.
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I get what you mean by student sounding. I've been listening back at it a couple times, and the VS ones kind of reminds me of the standard rental instruments you get at music schools.
I had a couple hours of practice today on the PI strings, and I've to say, they're staring to grow on me. Sounds pleasant under the ear and are more forgiving. Huge bonus on top of that, I only had to tune my violin once before each practice session and even then it was pretty close before hand. Not bad for only had the strings on for 3 days.
'Armed with theory, practice becomes meaningful. Through practice, theory becomes fulfilled.' - Egon von Neindorff.
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Just want to note: Vision and Vision Solo strings take a longer time than average for the tone to settle. In my experience, they sound harsh and metallic for about a week before they develop their normal tone.
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That's true. This was my second set of Vision Solos and both times it took one, maybe even two, weeks before the tone settled. Had them on for about 4,5-5 months before they wouldn't stay as well in tune.
'Armed with theory, practice becomes meaningful. Through practice, theory becomes fulfilled.' - Egon von Neindorff.
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