Fiddle talk - VIOLIN DISCUSSION FORUM - Playing the violin

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String set for 5-string fiddle.

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AlbinEkman

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February 25, 2013 - 3:08 am

Member Since: February 24, 2013

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So, I'm getting a 5-stringed fiddle (realist rv-5. Big surprise eh? But i'm looking for inputs in string purchase. I have only found one full 5 string set, but that didn't look very appealing (optimized for a electric fiddle) On my normal fiddle i use Evah Pirazzi. Not sure if those will be the optimal string for the rv-5 yet.

Anyway, i figure that the most logical way to approach it is to buy a full set of the string type i like, and a single C string, but since the C strings peg is the one closest to the fingerboard and the scale is that of a violin, not a viola, won't there be a buttload of string "left over"? Is it a good idea to cut it a bit to make it mor neat around the peg, or will that just mess up the wound of the string?

And also, people playing the rv models, what strings do you find good? They ship with Thomastik Infelds to my knowledge. Have any of you tried anything else?

Thank you!

Ferret

Byron Bay Australia

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February 25, 2013 - 5:02 am

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I,ve just strung my viola as a violin by using a violin E.

I reckon that you could do the same sort of thing with a viola C. I don't think that cutting the end would be a problem.

From what I've been told recently violin and viola strings are the same thing apart from a little length.

Seen it all. Done it all. Can't remember most of dunno ..... What was I saying???? facepalm

Fiddlerman

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February 25, 2013 - 7:34 am

Member Since: September 26, 2010

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Albin, those are great questions. I'm actually going to call D'addario today and try to talk to an expert at the new strings development department for those specific questions. As far as I know, specific strings are a particular thickness for the specific tone. I believe that you can easily just cut the string but I will double check that. Evah Pirazzi is an excellent string choice though I get a much better sound with Zyex on my personal violin. We've also begun putting Zyex on all our high end new violins at Fiddlershop.com
After Zyex I would recommend Obligato. I guess your best bet will be to buy a matching viola C string with any of these sets and get the short scale.

"The richest person is not the one who has the most,
but the one who needs the least."