Update: my hand is still killing me *_* 

Still loving the MJZ as it opens up the longer I play it.  I did feel like something is holding back the tone of the violin.  At first, I thought that it of course, is brand new, and has not been remotely close to being broken in.  Then I happen to watch a few YT videos about strings.  Then it occurred to me .. "oh crap, I didn't think about the strings when ordering the MJZ".

So of course, my MJZ has the Dominants.  It seems to be a respected brand, but most of the reviews are not that glowing.  One one hand, it's a brand that's widely used by violinists and violists that produces a clear tone with very good response (this part I do agree with).  However, I also noted some drawbacks.  Mainly that the string has no "flavor" .. not particularly mellow, bright, or brilliant.  The tone can also be viewed as flat, with no particular complexity or depth.  I also noticed that some have complained about the degradation of the sound as the strings are played in (Fiddlerman mentioned this as well).  

Going with Fiddlerman's advice (as well as other reviews), I've just bought a set of Zyex D'Addario strings.  I plan on switching them out as soon as they arrive.  This also got me thinking.  I have a german fiddle, and to be frank, I have not really paid attention to the strings (it also has dominants).  They are at least a couple of years old.  My old german fiddle is quite loud and bright, and based on the reviews, I've decided to purchase the Pro Arte D'Addario strings, which I hope will add a warm and mellow tone to balance out the natural loud and brightness of the instrument.

I'll report my findings ASAP!