Thank you kindly for your patience in doing this great public service which could only be done because of the love you have in the world of violins and of being of help to others.
watching this is 2021 - this is the exact video i needed, no one has remade a video like this in 9 years. i appreciate your humour, the day before big bang got me
Thanx for the feedback. There are heaps of strings out there that I haven't included... I'll probably end up doing another video with the other strings one day. The recording was done with a good quality Rode condenser mic connected to the camera. I could have set up a decent studio environment for the day( being an ex -recording engineer), but I really had to do it when the inspiration hit me.... I'm pretty happy with the sound despite the acoustic environment. -Rich
8 years later, still one of the best string comparison videos! Time for an UPDATE! For me the EP Gold sounded the best on your violin closely followed by the Obligato and Infield Red. The Infield Red was a real surprise!
I just love this video! I love your personality and humour. Some presenters try too hard to appeal to the audience, but you're a natural. Brilliant and focused... (just like Infeld Blues!)
Not much to add to what's already been said. You have indeed done a VERY valuable public service and done that in a very pleasant, informative way. THANK YOU !
Brilliant. I wish someone had done this for me 20 years ago. It would have saved me a ton of time and money. I eventually settled on pirastro olive for sound but was always nervous about weather because they are torture to keep in tune. You've convinced me to give the pirazzi gold a whirl and maybe the infeld red as well. Cheers.
I have tried all the popular stings myself and here are some personal opinions. 1. I won't judge them within one week from setup, all of them are very resonant but not focused on the first days because they haven't stretched enough thus are too elastic. 2. I have to adjust the sound post for every set of strings to produce the best sound, basically because of the hugh difference of their total tensions. (according to my theory) Evah Pirazzi are much stronger than Dominant thus a closer sound post to the bridge is required to balance the pressure on top. On the other hand, if you already have a very close sound post, you need to play too hard to 'drive' the bridge on softer strings which will result in a bad tone. 3. most violins are setup with too long vibration length and too high tuning, for example, 330mm at A=442, which is too far away from the factory specification of the strings (326mm at A=440), and the strings are simply not working at their designed state.
When i first bought my violin, it had this dark rich sound, but since i was just starting out I put on some student strings and that beautiful sound disappeared. Now many years later, I want to find the strings that were originally on it. This video was very helpful, thank you for making it.
Thanks a lot for this video - man, those Evah Pirazzi Gold really breathe and shine, the way you play them on your violin. Really got me caught, that sound, amazing. Never thought that strings compared to the Tonica might make such a change. Greatly played! When I'm playing well enough, I am going to get this set of strings, as well for my balanced and a bit dark sounding violin. Thanks for that comprehensive and well done comparison! ~ Michael
I bought the Infeld Reds. They are fantastic. I have long been in search of that dark/warm sound. However, like the review says they are not really that 'dark'. The gold E is not harsh at all. It can be played open and responds very well to pressure. The A and D are the best I have ever played. The G is comparably a little sluggish. All of the strings have great resonance, focus, and ring. Truly, I have been very surprised and very pleased. It was not the sound I was 'searching' for, but the Reds produce the best sound I have ever heard on my violin. They also have allowed me to soften my fingering technique and play more dynamically. BUY THEM!!! You will be very happy that you did.
@@Araujoth i just put on infeld reds on my very bright violin and the G D A sound good. Hoping the Gold E mellows out in time. It still makes my bright violin bright though. I just put them on today so I know I am being impatient
i like your enthusiasm i dot go to classes or talk to most violinist i meet they seem annoyed or mellow at violin playing.. almost like its a chore. your enthusiasm emanates pleasure and your descriptions are like youre tasting the sounds of usic. like me, i play, for playing! for fun.
Thanx for the question. So far I've been very happy with the Evah Pirazzi Gold E string. I haven't had them long enough to experiment with specialist 'e' strings. I'll let you know if I come up with any good combinations Regards -rich
Well I have to say ur videos are so professional and helpful :D I play both the violin and the cello, got really much inspiration on buying a new string set for my two instruments!
the best review for the violin strings out there, thank you so much for your time and effort, you have helped me decide to get my Evah Pirazzi gold strings! Best wishes to you!
Thank you so much for this video! I've been wondering about how the differences between certain strings sounded for some time now and this video really helped me a lot!
Very, well made video extremely informative and Whitehorse is very knowledgeable concerning their string selections and instruments. Even though, these are great all pro series strings, certain strings struck me as being better married to student series violins and certain strings also struck me as being married to pro-series for professionals playing out and in orchestras. Student Series string selections: Pirastro Tonica, Pirastro Piranito, Obbligato Pirastro, Infeld Red Thomastiks, and Infeld Blue Thomastiks. Professional Orchestra Series: Evah Pirazzi Pirastro, Violinio Pirastro, Evah Pirazzi Gold Pirastro, Vision Titanium Solo Thomastik, Thomastik Vision Synthetic Gut, Thomastik Dominant Synthetic Core and Pirastro Oliv. Out of all of these strings, my favorite as a student is Pirastro Tonica, Pirastro Piranito and or Obbligato Pirastro. For a Pro-series and Orchestra I would go with Evah Pirazzi Gold Pirastro, Thomastik Dominant Synthetic Core and or the Pirastro Oliv All of these string selections are great selections for both the student and the pro
Evah Pirazzi is often considered the best string for master violinists because of its power and clarity. I think Infeld Red and Vision Titanium also have decent power and can be used by top violinists.... although a master violinist might have a violin that is so bright and powerful, it might need softer warmer sounding strings. Sometimes it's better to choose strings for the violin rather than the level of the violinist. Rich-
@@LordCarmesimXXVII I haven't found that, the Evah Pirazzi regulars do die quickly but I can get a lot more use out of the Golds, they are also much richer & multi-dimensional. My hands are not acidic, perhaps this makes some difference ?
My takeaway from this is how marginal the differences are - I'm sure that the player's tone production is far more important. The finest fiddler I every heard - David Oistrakh - used a Prim steel A and it sounded gorgeous in his hands! The top pros mainly use Dominants or Evahs and ignore the plethora of alternatives. Of course, they have good fiddles that work well with neutral strings. Seems to me that for most of us, unless we have an instrument that has a problem that needs corrected, an affordable set of Tonicas will do just fine. Why pay 4-5 times more? Another affordable neutral string in the same price-range is the neglected John Pierce Artiste - which I slightly prefer to the Tonicas on my fiddle. Worth trying!
Based on this awesome video I did try out the Infeld Reds. Unfortunately, they are not working out for me. Feels like I am getting a random static feedback on the A and E, not to pleasant to the ears. My violin has a very deep rich sound on the lower strings, but the Reds do not bring it out. I am at a lost what to try next. In general, I tend to play too loud and bright sounding strings may not for me. I am tempted to give the Tonica or Dominants a try. I believe my violin is beyond a student violin. It was hand made by Bruno Franz Paulus in Germany back in the 1950's. I have owned it for about 55 years and still don't know how to compliment it with the right strings.
Evah Pirazzi Gold: “It’s cute. It’s got this gold sort of looking... looks a little bit gold.” I know that wasn’t meant to be funny but I’m dying. 😂 The delivery came across as: the gold is a little bit... well, gold. In all seriousness, amazing vid. Thank you for taking all the time to compile this giant comparison!! So informative. (I needed different strings as my current Pirastro Obligatos are very discouraging. They’re not bad strings, but their sound is not what I like in a violin. Finally figured that out today after trying to fit them on a new violin whose sound I liked before the strings. Then I listened to the end compilation of your vid, studying the different sounds of the strings, and only glancing at the brand after I’d made an opinion. I did that twice, just to be sure I didn’t hear things differently a second time. The instant I heard the Pirastro Obligato, I was like NO, don’t like it - both times. 😂)
I haven't really used the Corelli strings very much... I guess the fact that I'm not using them now must mean that I didn't love them. I don't think the Pirastro Golds would necessarily give you more brightness on the E string than the Infeld Reds... Its hard to say whether the Evah would be worth trying... you might find them a little fuller sounding than the Reds. I guess it depends on whether you're willing to pay the $ to find out. Good luck
Not only was this video helpful, I was thoroughly enjoying it. Next time I feel like a night out at the movies, I'll save myself the money and tune you in on TH-cam! :D
Hi,I did not try the passione but I do have now the New Eva Pirazzi Gold and are worth their extra cost!!(with the G Gold..which is very clear,full sound and even smooth)the other strings well balanced and very sensitive to the bow as well to the left hand!They have the gut feeling!
Great informative video. However, I think some of the subtle differences of the different strings were lost due to the crappy headphones I'm using. So, the commentary was useful as well.
Wonderful video. Can’t imagine how much time it took to record this, truly tv magic at work here! Wish I lived in AU so I could patron your shop. Such friendly, knowledgeable cheer! Thanks again for doing this!
What do you think of the combination of using dominant strings for the g,d, and a strings and a pirated gold label e string? I've seen many famous soloists like Hilary Hahn and Itzhak Perlman use this set of strings, and I was wondering what's your take on them. Thanks for the great review!
Thanks for your very honest reply! I still enjoyed the presentation very much, and I do appreciate how much time it must have taken to make - and I liked the speeded-up bit at the end!
Hi Richard, thanks for this video-many of us can't afford to change strings quickly to compare, so this video is an asset to us all! I have a question about combining strings: tried Obligatos as my first "expensive" set (with an Oliv E), loved its dark richness. I then had a new sound post put in, and Obligatos seemed a bit sluggish. I then tried Evah Pirazzi and realised the Obligatos demanded more effort to get liveliness on the D and more so on the A (but loved the richness and wolf of the G and D), while the Pirazzis sprang to life albeit a little too eagerly. SO, what are your thoughts on Obligato G with a different set for DAE? I know this depends heavily on the violin (mine is on the darker/rich side yet very quick to respond but not "bright"). Lastly, I loved the Pirazzi Gold full set so much, and was quite impressed with the Infeld Red Thomastik. Do you see an advantage of one over the other? I'm looking for richness with a nice singing ring and responsiveness (trying to have it all!) Sorry this was lengthy!!
Hi Christian, Yes, I agree that the obligatos can seem a bit sluggish on some instruments... especially as they get older. Although, no other set provides as much 'fullness' of sound. The Evah golds were supposed to be a cure for that and they do achieve it to a degree. They have almost the warmth of the obligatos, but with a response which is almost like the plain Evahs. I've got no problem with using a obligato G and a different set for the rest. The Infeld Red (once played in) can be like a quicker responding set of Obligatos.... I'm a big fan,,, whilst the Evah golds are a bit like that straight away.
Wow; thank you so much for taking the time and $ to do this video. I'm torn between the Infeld Reds (I personally LOVE them on my violin; my violin has a very deep voice, but lacks brightness in the E) and the pirastro Golds (so much more expensive!). Do you think it's worth the extra $? What do you think of Corelli strings?
Hi . I usually use Melos dark rosin made in greece. I also like pirastro Oliv and Hill dark rosin. I've heard good things about Andrea Rosin. I'll be getting a batch soon and I let you know what I think. Rich
My 9 year old son plays the violin and is now on concertos. He has a 1/2 size violin. Your video is very helpful. I bought him Thomastik Vision (advised by his teacher here in the Philippines) and it's nice. Maybe when he's big enough for a full size violin, we'll consider the more expensive ones.
I own the obligato ones. They have made a big difference to my violin, making the sound more velvety and less bright, which I love, specially the E string. Im in Love with it! So sweet a sound. However, the G string has developed a weird resonance as if it was vibrating excessively which makes the notes resonate for longer. It dont know if im paranoid but id love to know if anyone has experienced this. Thanks
Fantastic video Richard, I am just about to buy from you the Gliga II 1/2 for my daughter from you. I had a good listen to this video (even once with my eyes closed :)) and I really liked the sound of the Pirastro Tonica strings, then followed by the Pirastro Violino, then the Thomastik Dominant. I am leaning mostly towards the Pirastro Tonica's hoping that this will be a good combination. Terrific work Richard and looking forward to being a long term customer. Cheers
I wish every musician could have opportunity to try all of strings at once like you and so to choose their favorite, but.... since it is virtually impossible we thank you for this work and presented opportunity at list to listen
So now i must learn what my violin sound it is mellow rich bright... many strings are wonderful and your review helps me a lot!! I will change the strings and hope I reach the sound I image in my head.
Thank you very much for all the hard work you put into this video. I'm a beginner who bought a violin and became frustrated and disappointed with my instrument. Watching your video made me realize that all I needed was a change in strings. I am excited to learn once again now :)
Chick Bytes : I started using a new bow and strings too. I am fine w A n E string but G n D if flatwound sound nose blocked. If roundwound sound fuller n more sustained BUT there s sound when fingers move
Thanx Amellya, The Paesold PA400 violins changed a lot when I was stocking them. They started out quite mellow and then the last batch or two were quite bright. If yours is quite mellow, you could use Infeld Red, evah pirazzi or even Evah pirazzi gold. If its one of the more bright pa400 violins, you could go with Obligato or Violinos. It also depends on what sort of sound you want. -Rich
Just stumbled across this comparison. So helpful! Thank you! I would have never considered the Infeld Red strings before now, but I'm considering them for my next set. Especially that gentle and beautiful E string!
Just ordered the Infeld G, D, A and a Pirastro Gold Label E. Was using Violino which are nice, soft maybe not as much projection. Hoping the Infeld Red will be dark with more focus/projection liked mentioned.
Evah Pirazzi Gold sound like they might be a good choice for your violin. They are one of the few sets of strings that are open and bright enough to be used on a warm/mellow sounding violin, while not compromising on the fullness of the sound. We currently have them listed at $129.95 on our website. (hint) :)
Good question. Evah Pirazzi are probably more aimed at soloists as they are higher tension and their sound is a bit more focused. The Dominants are probably a little broader sounding, but are still reasonably focused. It really depends on your violin. If it is very full sounding and wants a bit more power, you could probably go with the Evah Pirazzis, bit if it needs a bit more fullness to the sound and isn't already lacking in volume, you could go with the Dominants... Good luck.
Thanks so much for doing this. I wish I could be there in your store when you did it. It's very difficult to tell much difference over the Internet even though I have a high quality sound system attached to my computer.
Great video! must of taken forever! I've been using Thomastik Dominant for years and am thinking of changing it up but i might just start with the E string after watching this. Thanks
Thanks for the helpful reviews, and the fun commentary. I can't help but think you should have had a part in the Lord of the Rings movies. Not that it wasn't perfectly cast, because it was! They would have had to add a part for you. I think I need to get to sleep now, I'm getting punchy!
I have often played with Titanium ,bothe,solo and orchestra...for my violin I found that the orchestra give more color...my violin is loud but not too bright... It depends of your violin...They have outstanding response!
I still find this the best string review here, the only problem being that ( as on other reviews ) you don't try Corelli strings : Crystal is very similar to Tonica , maybe slightly brighter, and work well on viola too - Alliance, I've heard, are like a more responsive Obligato, but I haven't gotten round to trying them yet - they do a new string called Cantiga which I'd also like to see reviewed - You do such a good job here, it would be great to see an updated version...
Hello. After watching your video I decided infeld blue would suit me. I read other reviews which all contradicted your opinion of the infeld blue. I will have to wait and see how they play when they arrive.
Tonica 35:02
Piranito 35:18
Evah Pirazzi 35:29
Evah Pirazzi Gold 35:42
Obligato 36:00
Violino 36:12
Oliv 36:25
Infeld Red 36:37
Infeld Blue 36:53
Vision Titanium Solo 37:07
Vision 37:21
Dominant 37:36
ThreeSidedTriangle most underrated comment thank you my man
Before the test starts, he basically describes what the strings are like and his opinions on them
@@threesidedtriangle1798 Pirazzi gold ///
Alright guys, so Broken A string . Have a good 110 year old Strad copy, what should I put on it?
ThreeSidedTriangle thanks man
Thank you kindly for your patience in doing this great public service which could only be done because of the love you have in the world of violins and of being of help to others.
+Ben Dela Vega too kind :)
I second that!
Nah, YOU are too kind hehehe
I third this! Thank you!
A thumb up for the cheerful atmosphere of this video lol.
This dude is just a joy to listen to. His commentary is warm and friendly. More videos!
This is the best violin string review ever ,thanks for your efforts.
watching this is 2021 - this is the exact video i needed, no one has remade a video like this in 9 years. i appreciate your humour, the day before big bang got me
Thanx for the feedback. There are heaps of strings out there that I haven't included... I'll probably end up doing another video with the other strings one day. The recording was done with a good quality Rode condenser mic connected to the camera. I could have set up a decent studio environment for the day( being an ex -recording engineer), but I really had to do it when the inspiration hit me.... I'm pretty happy with the sound despite the acoustic environment. -Rich
8 years later, still one of the best string comparison videos! Time for an UPDATE!
For me the EP Gold sounded the best on your violin closely followed by the Obligato and Infield Red. The Infield Red was a real surprise!
I think the Infeld Red were my favourite too and I definitely liked the EP Gold
Completely agree. EP Gold & Reds were delicious
Absolutely LOVE this review! First string review with EVERY string properly tuned. Thanks!
I just love this video! I love your personality and humour. Some presenters try too hard to appeal to the audience, but you're a natural. Brilliant and focused... (just like Infeld Blues!)
Not much to add to what's already been said. You have indeed done a VERY valuable public service and done that in a very pleasant, informative way. THANK YOU !
The best review. You are my hero. Big like
+locngo Thanx :)
Brilliant. I wish someone had done this for me 20 years ago. It would have saved me a ton of time and money. I eventually settled on pirastro olive for sound but was always nervous about weather because they are torture to keep in tune. You've convinced me to give the pirazzi gold a whirl and maybe the infeld red as well. Cheers.
I have tried all the popular stings myself and here are some personal opinions.
1. I won't judge them within one week from setup, all of them are very resonant but not focused on the first days because they haven't stretched enough thus are too elastic. 2. I have to adjust the sound post for every set of strings to produce the best sound, basically because of the hugh difference of their total tensions. (according to my theory) Evah Pirazzi are much stronger than Dominant thus a closer sound post to the bridge is required to balance the pressure on top. On the other hand, if you already have a very close sound post, you need to play too hard to 'drive' the bridge on softer strings which will result in a bad tone. 3. most violins are setup with too long vibration length and too high tuning, for example, 330mm at A=442, which is too far away from the factory specification of the strings (326mm at A=440), and the strings are simply not working at their designed state.
When i first bought my violin, it had this dark rich sound, but since i was just starting out I put on some student strings and that beautiful sound disappeared. Now many years later, I want to find the strings that were originally on it. This video was very helpful, thank you for making it.
Thanks a lot for this video - man, those Evah Pirazzi Gold really breathe and shine, the way you play them on your violin. Really got me caught, that sound, amazing. Never thought that strings compared to the Tonica might make such a change. Greatly played!
When I'm playing well enough, I am going to get this set of strings, as well for my balanced and a bit dark sounding violin.
Thanks for that comprehensive and well done comparison!
~ Michael
I bought the Infeld Reds. They are fantastic. I have long been in search of that dark/warm sound. However, like the review says they are not really that 'dark'. The gold E is not harsh at all. It can be played open and responds very well to pressure. The A and D are the best I have ever played. The G is comparably a little sluggish. All of the strings have great resonance, focus, and ring. Truly, I have been very surprised and very pleased. It was not the sound I was 'searching' for, but the Reds produce the best sound I have ever heard on my violin. They also have allowed me to soften my fingering technique and play more dynamically. BUY THEM!!! You will be very happy that you did.
I use it too but it become darker after about a week. But still I love my dominant + thomastik e gold. It suites me a lot
I totally agree. I've been using Infeld reds for a long time, they sound perfect on my violin.
@@Araujoth i just put on infeld reds on my very bright violin and the G D A sound good. Hoping the Gold E mellows out in time. It still makes my bright violin bright though. I just put them on today so I know I am being impatient
They're the ones I noticed and liked most in the video
a darker and smoother string what do you suggests?
You know you're a music nerd when you watch all 40 minutes of it😂😂
twice
True
The EP Golds popped out soooo much more than the others. Especially those A&D strings.
Thank you for all of the effort into this video.
I love you so much. I’m self taught and have been struggling with how Bright and sharp my cheap violin sounds. This video helped me a lot.
i like your enthusiasm i dot go to classes or talk to most violinist i meet they seem annoyed or mellow at violin playing.. almost like its a chore.
your enthusiasm emanates pleasure and your descriptions are like youre tasting the sounds of usic.
like me, i play, for playing! for fun.
Thanx for the question.
So far I've been very happy with the Evah Pirazzi Gold E string. I haven't had
them long enough to experiment with specialist 'e' strings. I'll let you know if I
come up with any good combinations
Regards -rich
Thank you for the effort!
1:47 And I already love this guy. Super positive energy!
Well I have to say ur videos are so professional and helpful :D I play both the violin and the cello, got really much inspiration on buying a new string set for my two instruments!
I realize it's an old video, but it honestly helped me very much choosing strings for my violin!
the best review for the violin strings out there, thank you so much for your time and effort, you have helped me decide to get my Evah Pirazzi gold strings! Best wishes to you!
Thank you so much for this video! I've been wondering about how the differences between certain strings sounded for some time now and this video really helped me a lot!
Very, well made video extremely informative and Whitehorse is very knowledgeable concerning their string selections and instruments. Even though, these are great all pro series strings, certain strings struck me as being better married to student series violins and certain strings also struck me as being married to pro-series for professionals playing out and in orchestras.
Student Series string selections:
Pirastro Tonica, Pirastro Piranito, Obbligato Pirastro, Infeld Red Thomastiks, and Infeld Blue Thomastiks.
Professional Orchestra Series:
Evah Pirazzi Pirastro, Violinio Pirastro, Evah Pirazzi Gold Pirastro, Vision Titanium Solo Thomastik, Thomastik Vision Synthetic Gut, Thomastik Dominant Synthetic Core and Pirastro Oliv.
Out of all of these strings, my favorite as a student is Pirastro Tonica, Pirastro Piranito and or Obbligato Pirastro.
For a Pro-series and Orchestra I would go with Evah Pirazzi Gold Pirastro, Thomastik Dominant Synthetic Core and or the Pirastro Oliv
All of these string selections are great selections for both the student and the pro
Linda Rian Thanks for your encouragement.
You helped me buy my first digital piano, so when i saw you in your thumbnail, clicked straight away knowing i cant go wrong :D
Evah Pirazzi is often considered the best string for master violinists because of
its power and clarity. I think Infeld Red and Vision Titanium also have decent power and can be used by top violinists.... although a master violinist might have a violin that is so bright and powerful, it might need softer warmer sounding strings. Sometimes it's better to choose strings for the violin rather than the level of the violinist. Rich-
I've listened watched both the cello and violin videos. Both are excellent. So very helpful. Thank you.
Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Gold are so perfect, wow!
Except they don't last.
@@LordCarmesimXXVII I haven't found that, the Evah Pirazzi regulars do die quickly but I can get a lot more use out of the Golds, they are also much richer & multi-dimensional. My hands are not acidic, perhaps this makes some difference ?
If I lived in Australia I would buy all my violin stuff at your shop! Love this, thank you!
Man thanks for the time ,effort and patients this took... Liking those Thomastic reds.
My takeaway from this is how marginal the differences are - I'm sure that the player's tone production is far more important. The finest fiddler I every heard - David Oistrakh - used a Prim steel A and it sounded gorgeous in his hands! The top pros mainly use Dominants or Evahs and ignore the plethora of alternatives. Of course, they have good fiddles that work well with neutral strings. Seems to me that for most of us, unless we have an instrument that has a problem that needs corrected, an affordable set of Tonicas will do just fine. Why pay 4-5 times more? Another affordable neutral string in the same price-range is the neglected John Pierce Artiste - which I slightly prefer to the Tonicas on my fiddle. Worth trying!
Thanks for doing this...it must have been INCREDIBLY time consuming! Thanks again
The infield reds are so beautiful and inviting. Awesome video man
+Todd Smith Thanks :)
Based on this awesome video I did try out the Infeld Reds. Unfortunately, they are not working out for me. Feels like I am getting a random static feedback on the A and E, not to pleasant to the ears. My violin has a very deep rich sound on the lower strings, but the Reds do not bring it out. I am at a lost what to try next. In general, I tend to play too loud and bright sounding strings may not for me. I am tempted to give the Tonica or Dominants a try. I believe my violin is beyond a student violin. It was hand made by Bruno Franz Paulus in Germany back in the 1950's. I have owned it for about 55 years and still don't know how to compliment it with the right strings.
Evah Pirazzi Gold: “It’s cute. It’s got this gold sort of looking... looks a little bit gold.”
I know that wasn’t meant to be funny but I’m dying. 😂 The delivery came across as: the gold is a little bit... well, gold.
In all seriousness, amazing vid. Thank you for taking all the time to compile this giant comparison!! So informative.
(I needed different strings as my current Pirastro Obligatos are very discouraging. They’re not bad strings, but their sound is not what I like in a violin. Finally figured that out today after trying to fit them on a new violin whose sound I liked before the strings. Then I listened to the end compilation of your vid, studying the different sounds of the strings, and only glancing at the brand after I’d made an opinion. I did that twice, just to be sure I didn’t hear things differently a second time. The instant I heard the Pirastro Obligato, I was like NO, don’t like it - both times. 😂)
Thanks for the video and effort! It came in quite handy when I was buying a new set of strings recently. 😊
Thanks for your help in choosing the right violin for my daughter.
Thank you for taking the time to do this.
Yes, please do. I, too, am very interested in what you'd have to say about viola strings (and violas,too.)
I haven't really used the Corelli strings very much... I guess the fact that I'm not using them now must mean that I didn't love them. I don't think the Pirastro Golds would necessarily give you more brightness on the E string than the Infeld Reds... Its hard to say whether the Evah would be worth trying... you might find them a little fuller sounding than the Reds. I guess it depends on whether you're willing to pay the $ to find out. Good luck
Not only was this video helpful, I was thoroughly enjoying it. Next time I feel like a night out at the movies, I'll save myself the money and tune you in on TH-cam! :D
Thanks very much for the show. A lot of work on your part. I've always wondered about the differences of strings. I'll keep tabs on your website.
Thank You very much for your sacrifice to benefit others.
Thank you for your thorough review, though I wish you spent a more time climbing up the E string so I can hear more than three notes played on the E.
Thank you for ALL the effort you put into this video.
Just updating our website prices:
02:15 Pirastro Tonica $26.00 (all Aust dollars inc GST)
04:02 Pirastro Piranito $23.95
05:48 Pirastro Evah Pirazzi $92.95
07:53 Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Gold (gold G) $129.95
10:00 Pirastro Obligato (gold E)$92.95
12:38 Pirastro Violino $62.95
14:40 Pirastro Oliv $122
17:45 Thomastik Infeld Red $84.95
19:28 Thomastik Infeld Blue $66.95
22:24 Thomastik Vision Titanium Solo $88.95
26:10 Thomastik Vision $52.95
29:55 Thomastik Dominant $59.95
34:20 all strings
Hi,I did not try the passione but I do have now the New Eva Pirazzi Gold and are worth their extra cost!!(with the G Gold..which is very clear,full sound and even smooth)the other strings well balanced and very sensitive to the bow as well to the left hand!They have the gut feeling!
thank you very much for this great review, it is the best review I've seen so far in youtube congratulations!
Great informative video. However, I think some of the subtle differences of the different strings were lost due to the crappy headphones I'm using. So, the commentary was useful as well.
Thyanks for taking all your time to do this video......really appreciated it :D
Wonderful video. Can’t imagine how much time it took to record this, truly tv magic at work here! Wish I lived in AU so I could patron your shop. Such friendly, knowledgeable cheer! Thanks again for doing this!
Thank you very much!
Just a great job mate.I know that was a ton of work but it was greatly appreciated. I wish you the best :)
Richard Melhuish Thanks! What a great response we have had to this video. It's very encouraging.
Thanx for the question. unfortunately, I've never had a J.S Bach 306 violin before
What do you think of the combination of using dominant strings for the g,d, and a strings and a pirated gold label e string? I've seen many famous soloists like Hilary Hahn and Itzhak Perlman use this set of strings, and I was wondering what's your take on them. Thanks for the great review!
I like the Pirastro Gold!!! I broke my E string so I think I'll replace it with Pirastro Gold.
Thanks for your very honest reply! I still enjoyed the presentation very much, and I do appreciate how much time it must have taken to make - and I liked the speeded-up bit at the end!
Hi Richard, thanks for this video-many of us can't afford to change strings quickly to compare, so this video is an asset to us all!
I have a question about combining strings: tried Obligatos as my first "expensive" set (with an Oliv E), loved its dark richness. I then had a new sound post put in, and Obligatos seemed a bit sluggish. I then tried Evah Pirazzi and realised the Obligatos demanded more effort to get liveliness on the D and more so on the A (but loved the richness and wolf of the G and D), while the Pirazzis sprang to life albeit a little too eagerly.
SO, what are your thoughts on Obligato G with a different set for DAE? I know this depends heavily on the violin (mine is on the darker/rich side yet very quick to respond but not "bright"). Lastly, I loved the Pirazzi Gold full set so much, and was quite impressed with the Infeld Red Thomastik. Do you see an advantage of one over the other? I'm looking for richness with a nice singing ring and responsiveness (trying to have it all!) Sorry this was lengthy!!
Hi Christian,
Yes, I agree that the obligatos can seem a bit sluggish on some instruments... especially as they get older. Although, no other set provides as much 'fullness' of sound. The Evah golds were supposed to be a cure for that and they do achieve it to a degree. They have almost the warmth of the obligatos, but with a response which is almost like the plain Evahs. I've got no problem with using a obligato G and a different set for the rest. The Infeld Red (once played in) can be like a quicker responding set of Obligatos.... I'm a big fan,,, whilst the Evah golds are a bit like that straight away.
Wow; thank you so much for taking the time and $ to do this video. I'm torn between the Infeld Reds (I personally LOVE them on my violin; my violin has a very deep voice, but lacks brightness in the E) and the pirastro Golds (so much more expensive!). Do you think it's worth the extra $? What do you think of Corelli strings?
Thank you for reviewing
it's really helpful for beginner
Thankyou so much for this. How could I glean so much knowledge anywhere else? You're a Star!
Hi .
I usually use Melos dark rosin made in greece. I also like pirastro Oliv
and Hill dark rosin. I've heard good things about Andrea Rosin. I'll be getting a batch
soon and I let you know what I think.
Rich
The best string review I've got!
Is that 'Liang zhu' in background at 2:40? :)
yes
Awesome work you've put in here, thank you.
Wow. Thank you for your efforts! This was a great help
My 9 year old son plays the violin and is now on concertos. He has a 1/2 size violin. Your video is very helpful. I bought him Thomastik Vision (advised by his teacher here in the Philippines) and it's nice. Maybe when he's big enough for a full size violin, we'll consider the more expensive ones.
Please update this type of comparison to include many of the newer, exceptionally good strings.
Thanks for an awesome review, love your honest enthusiastic opinion. really understandable and very informative.
What a helpful and generous video! I’m going to check with you folks next time I buy strings. 🙏🎵🙏
I own the obligato ones. They have made a big difference to my violin, making the sound more velvety and less bright, which I love, specially the E string. Im in Love with it! So sweet a sound. However, the G string has developed a weird resonance as if it was vibrating excessively which makes the notes resonate for longer. It dont know if im paranoid but id love to know if anyone has experienced this. Thanks
A big thank you to Richard and Whitehorse Music for this. Very instructional!
Fantastic video Richard, I am just about to buy from you the Gliga II 1/2 for my daughter from you. I had a good listen to this video (even once with my eyes closed :)) and I really liked the sound of the Pirastro Tonica strings, then followed by the Pirastro Violino, then the Thomastik Dominant. I am leaning mostly towards the Pirastro Tonica's hoping that this will be a good combination. Terrific work Richard and looking forward to being a long term customer. Cheers
I like a rich, melodic sound that projects and rings a lot. Would you advise Evah Pirazzi or Evah PIrazzi Gold
I wish every musician could have opportunity to try all of strings at once like you and so to choose their favorite, but.... since it is virtually impossible we thank you for this work and presented opportunity at list to listen
Bravo ! nice idea and lovely presentation ! You are very amusing presenter :-)
Fantastic information, this review was exactly what I was looking for. Thanks!!
So now i must learn what my violin sound it is mellow rich bright... many strings are wonderful and your review helps me a lot!! I will change the strings and hope I reach the sound I image in my head.
Thank you very much for all the hard work you put into this video. I'm a beginner who bought a violin and became frustrated and disappointed with my instrument. Watching your video made me realize that all I needed was a change in strings. I am excited to learn once again now :)
Chick Bytes : I started using a new bow and strings too. I am fine w A n E string but G n D if flatwound sound nose blocked. If roundwound sound fuller n more sustained BUT there s sound when fingers move
Thanks for the quick answer! I haven't decided on which instrument electric or acoustical.
Thanx Amellya,
The Paesold PA400 violins changed a lot when I was stocking them. They started out
quite mellow and then the last batch or two were quite bright. If yours is quite mellow, you could use Infeld Red, evah pirazzi or even Evah pirazzi gold. If its one of the more bright pa400 violins, you could go with Obligato or Violinos. It also depends on what sort of sound you want. -Rich
Just stumbled across this comparison. So helpful! Thank you! I would have never considered the Infeld Red strings before now, but I'm considering them for my next set. Especially that gentle and beautiful E string!
Just ordered the Infeld G, D, A and a Pirastro Gold Label E. Was using Violino which are nice, soft maybe not as much projection. Hoping the Infeld Red will be dark with more focus/projection liked mentioned.
Terrific study Richard; extremely useful! Thanks
Evah Pirazzi Gold sound like they might be a good choice for your violin.
They are one of the few sets of strings that are open and bright enough to be used
on a warm/mellow sounding violin, while not compromising on the fullness of the sound.
We currently have them listed at $129.95 on our website. (hint) :)
Good question. Evah Pirazzi are probably more aimed at soloists as they are higher tension and their sound is a bit more focused. The Dominants are probably a little broader sounding, but are still reasonably focused. It really depends on your violin. If it is very full sounding and wants a bit more power, you could probably go with the Evah Pirazzis, bit if it needs a bit more fullness to the sound and isn't already lacking in volume, you could go with the Dominants... Good luck.
Thank you for the excellent video. It's VERY informative. It's too back I don't live in Australia.
Thanks so much for doing this. I wish I could be there in your store when you did it. It's very difficult to tell much difference over the Internet even though I have a high quality sound system attached to my computer.
Many thanks for your advice. I will give the Obligatos a try. All the best to you and your wife.
Thank you for this video. It helped me choose the Infeld Red. I love its sound
Great video! must of taken forever! I've been using Thomastik Dominant for years and am thinking of changing it up but i might just start with the E string after watching this. Thanks
Tonica 3:08
Piranito 4:37
Thanks for the helpful reviews, and the fun commentary. I can't help but think you should have had a part in the Lord of the Rings movies. Not that it wasn't perfectly cast, because it was! They would have had to add a part for you. I think I need to get to sleep now, I'm getting punchy!
I have often played with Titanium ,bothe,solo and orchestra...for my violin I found that the orchestra give more color...my violin is loud but not too bright...
It depends of your violin...They have outstanding response!
You are so helpful and fun to watch.
Thanks :)
I still find this the best string review here, the only problem being that ( as on other reviews ) you don't try Corelli strings : Crystal is very similar to Tonica , maybe slightly brighter, and work well on viola too - Alliance, I've heard, are like a more responsive Obligato, but I haven't gotten round to trying them yet - they do a new string called Cantiga which I'd also like to see reviewed - You do such a good job here, it would be great to see an updated version...
fiddledotgoth Thanks that is very kind. We are working on a new review. Hopefully we can add a few of the brands you mentioned.
Hello. After watching your video I decided infeld blue would suit me. I read other reviews which all contradicted your opinion of the infeld blue. I will have to wait and see how they play when they arrive.
Excellent. So informational and helpful.