Hi! I’m getting these for viola, but have lots of random A strings lying around in my case. Their are Evah pirrazi gold and green, and Thomastik vision solo. Which A would sound best with these?
The core is actually a Stranded Steel Core meaning many strands of steel twisted & then wound w/ another type of metal, so it's very much like the wound Gut strings from the old days. That stranded steel core makes them sound very much like gut strings.
These are my favorite strings to use. Probably because they where the first string I switched to from the strings that came with my violin. I haven’t yet got to play with to many different strings yet. But that’s DUE to my lack in practicing.
So what are your preferred strings for amazing complexity and resonance on the low (and high/) ends? I"m hunting for 'grumpy growly old man' old time fiddle strings, lots of depth and character, even if I need to go for a different branded E.. Thank you for being awesome!
Hi .. I use thomastik super flexible steel core . I installed barcus_berry pickup its a bit dark sound. Especially G and D .. I want same strings but a little brighter. Do you advise me to try this helicore
In his book 'Useful Measurements for Violin Makers', Henry Strobel recommends that the clearance above the fingerboard should be less for steel strings vs. synthetic core strings. Do you think that Helicore strings should have less clearance above the fingerboard, or should the clearance be the same as for synthetic core strings (such as Dominants)?
Michael. Great reviews. I would like to see a comparison between Helicore strings and Thomastik Superflexible strings. It appears that they have a similar form of construction. Thomastik calls theirs rope core, but they are both basically twisted strands inside. I see that you have done a review of the Superflexibles, but the octave version, not the standard violin string. Hardly anybody talks about the Superflexible but I have gotten good service from them for a long time. Whadya say?
I always use thomastik superflexible violin strings. Best soumd and brand. Now I need to know abou helicore because I need brighter sound. I still wait for someone answer tried it
To my ear those strings sound a bit harsh on an acoustic violin, especially the open D and the E,. and the E whistles like crazy some days. But the set I had lasted over two years.
I am very much a novice so I don't know how much this matters. I use heavy tension Zyex that I like however the next time I change strings I will go with the medium tension
I noticed you posted this awhile ago I'm a beginner, I was just wondering what your experience/opinion ended up being for Heavy tension vs Medium tension? Thanks!
If you havre a soft bridge (sometimes cheaper bridges can be softer) that could happen. Heavy tension strings could start to dig into the bridge if it's unusually soft. But with the medium tension strings, it shouldn't be a problem.
@@Fiddlershop I think it sounds great on a 5 String Cello. The Wound E String is often called a "Non Whistling E" because the Wrap wire gets rid of the Squeaking noise.
A few things that I noticed about Helicore strings is more projection and volume and to me the biggest is they stay in tune,like forever! Perfect for country and irish fiddling. Don't be so snooty! Not everyone that loves the violin plays classical music!
For a 13yo 7th grade advanced student which strings would you recommend between the Dominant or Helicore. The teacher has suggested Dominants but I think he’s just going for what works well on average
Hi Michael :-) I have a string related question you might be able to help me with: I've just ordered a set of Helicore Octave violin strings, but I have a problem. My violin is 5-strings electric, has a low C on the bottom, which I usually order separately, and until it was available for violins, it was a viola C. My question is...what kind of string do I need to get to replace that low C to fit my new octave string set? Obviously that low C needs to be an octave lower too. Thank you in advance ❤️
Yeah, so the three options for octave strings are Helicore Octave, Thomastik Infeld Ropecore (superflexible) octave, or SuperSensitive Sensicore Octave. I would normally suggest going with the last one, they usually have the single C string in both violin and longer scale (for viola). But things are a little wonky right now because of the virus...we can't get them at the moment. So, maybe keep looking around, or check back in a lil' bit.
The Zyex didn't sound that great here, but on my violin they're awesome. Goes to show sometimes you just need to try different things and see if you and your violin like it. I may try that Aluminium E solely to reduce whistles... the struggle is real!
Ain't that the truth. This is the reason we keep trying different strings on different violins, here at Fiddlershop. That's great that they Zyex strings work for you. Thanks for sharing 😃
Hey Gibbles! wow, for someone who just started learning violin, the journey looking for violin strings is really hurting my head to find out and experiment with the strings. Basically, I categorise myself as an early intermediate player after more than a year learning this instrument? Also, I am off from a student violin. Currently, I have a German violin ca 1850 which in my opinion has dark and warm sound to it. At the moment I am with Larsen strings already for about 6 months. So I have to replace my strings and begun my journey to find out about a week ago. Articles, reviews, forums, and videos. Somehow I always come back to your channel. Yeah my head hurts. So many information. But your explanation is helping me to make a decision eventually. My problem is, I think my violin deserves a professional player and get violin strings for pro. But, I ain't a pro player. Not even think to be one. I wanna get Evah Pirazzi, but its out of my budget plus it is more for pro. I am interested with Kaplan Vivo (I think it will give bright to balance dark tone on my violin?). Eventually, I ordered this Helicore. One concern yes, it will be a challenge for me to tune it, but challenge accepted. My decision to go to Helicore is based on your what you said and some research. It is bright and powerful. I think this would be good for my violin to balance the sounds. To be honest, I am just following my guts. Let see. I'll keep you updated! PS: would be great if you also make a comparison for E strings from different brands?
Hi Rahmilyna! Fantastic, I'm glad to hear all my ramblings make some sense to somebody! And very excited to hear you are up for a challenge, and going with your gut. As you can see, I struggle with making these videos, because everyone's condition and preference is SO unique. So, as you try more, you'll have more of a road map of what you like and don't. I wouldn't worry too much about "pro" strings vs. "amateur" strings, if you love them, and you can justify spending the money on them, then just enjoy them :-) But cost is for sure a big factor in all of this-I totally get it. I'll think about an E-string video too. I just worry it might get painful to listen to that much E-string 😜
@@Fiddlershop Gibbles! thanks for the response. well, i hear you about pro and amateur strings point of view. But I am still a beginner. So best for me not to go for something huge but more to learn bit by bit. What I am going to do is to have gut strings after this. I have placed the Helicore strings for G, D and A for about a week now. E is coming (too bad I've got a steel one). The verdict is man its sooooo loud. Not in a bad way. The projection is very wide. For my violin, which has a dark tone (I think) is a good combination. Since the strings provide balance and color into the sounds. And you are right, it responses very quickly. Like for instance sautille, ricochet, and spicatto. I managed to have my practice routine better to listen to these violin bowing technique sounds. In conclusion, this strings are for dark tone violin on preference not make it darker and somber. As you said, it based on your preference. I like the dark sound but also warm and more tone rather than just dark. I'll keep you updated on how it goes in few weeks time. Thanks Gibbles!
Hi John! I assume you are located on the other side of the Atlantic compared to Fiddlershop lol. It's interesting with pronunciations, that's for sure. The tomato and potato debate, for instance, ha ha!! :) Thanks :)
Nah, across the Pacific. I'm in Australia..!! The English language speakers and the Americans are two peoples divided by a common language..!! @@Fiddlershop
The Heck-ee-cores are reasonably priced, but experiences in Asia (both in Korea and in Thailand) have led this Canadian citizen violist-violinist to sadly report that their quality-control, despite their own vaunted claims to have "the most stringent quality-control in the industry" is absolutely wretched, at least for viola; they are preternaturally prone to snap VERY prematurely without any visual warning in terms of visible wear, and without any hint in terms of sound loss either. E.g., testing a new purchase of viola in Seoul in the autumn of 2008, two different strings (A and G, if i recall) snapped without warning within the space of less than a week. More recently, on stage in the viola section of the Thailand Phil in Greater Bangkok, the G-string snapped in the tuning process a few seconds before commencing the Tschaikovskiy "Francesca di Rimini" in the second half of a concert; annoying as all get out, since the nature of the piece is that there is no place to sneak back on stage after replacing the broken string. Arrgh... One string-instrument shop in central Bangkok now refuses to sell them (or any D'Addario orchestral product, in fact) precisely because of so many reports from other customers with that same lament--- unwarranted and unexpected "snappage". Disturbing... and twice i have written to D'Addario to complain about this, with my concerns / "perturbs" basically dismissed without any sympathy or offer of compensation. Also very disturbing...
The Helicore octave strings are something we're looking into. For the time being, you could also check out SuperSensitive Sensicore octave strings, or also Thomastik Superflexible: ua-cam.com/video/HsLcNpw09D8/v-deo.html
2:48 you also had the HP 4645!?!? It's the most frustrating printer ever! It is unleashing all of the demons in my house! It would go for the slowest response in your string charts! I know 4 more people around me who bought this printer and have the same urge to beat it to death
Can you do the infeld red and blue strings?
I still don’t get why you haven’t blown up. Your videos are humorous and engaging!
Michael is the best!!!
Hi!
I’m getting these for viola, but have lots of random A strings lying around in my case. Their are Evah pirrazi gold and green, and Thomastik vision solo. Which A would sound best with these?
The core is actually a Stranded Steel Core meaning many strands of steel twisted & then wound w/ another type of metal, so it's very much like the wound Gut strings from the old days. That stranded steel core makes them sound very much like gut strings.
Great video! I’ve been really tempted to try these strings. I play Irish fiddle and I know they are quite a popular choice for fiddlers.
Go for it! Thanks for watching, Olivia 🤩
"the wind that is blowing that day", most important advice. =D
These are my favorite strings to use. Probably because they where the first string I switched to from the strings that came with my violin. I haven’t yet got to play with to many different strings yet. But that’s DUE to my lack in practicing.
Thanks for watching!
So what are your preferred strings for amazing complexity and resonance on the low (and high/) ends? I"m hunting for 'grumpy growly old man' old time fiddle strings, lots of depth and character, even if I need to go for a different branded E.. Thank you for being awesome!
Hi .. I use thomastik super flexible steel core . I installed barcus_berry pickup its a bit dark sound. Especially G and D .. I want same strings but a little brighter. Do you advise me to try this helicore
In his book 'Useful Measurements for Violin Makers', Henry Strobel recommends that the clearance above the fingerboard should be less for steel strings vs. synthetic core strings. Do you think that Helicore strings should have less clearance above the fingerboard, or should the clearance be the same as for synthetic core strings (such as Dominants)?
Can you do the peter infled white and red🙏😍
Michael. Great reviews. I would like to see a comparison between Helicore strings and Thomastik Superflexible strings. It appears that they have a similar form of construction. Thomastik calls theirs rope core, but they are both basically twisted strands inside. I see that you have done a review of the Superflexibles, but the octave version, not the standard violin string. Hardly anybody talks about the Superflexible but I have gotten good service from them for a long time. Whadya say?
I always use thomastik superflexible violin strings. Best soumd and brand. Now I need to know abou helicore because I need brighter sound. I still wait for someone answer tried it
To my ear those strings sound a bit harsh on an acoustic violin, especially the open D and the E,. and the E whistles like crazy some days. But the set I had lasted over two years.
Interesting! And two years, wow!!!
I am very much a novice so I don't know how much this matters. I use heavy tension Zyex that I like however the next time I change strings I will go with the medium tension
I noticed you posted this awhile ago I'm a beginner, I was just wondering what your experience/opinion ended up being for Heavy tension vs Medium tension? Thanks!
Should I put these on my Yamaha YEV4 or stick with Zyex?
These would work
Fiddlershop I think the Aluminum Wound E matches better with the other 3 Strings which are also wound.
Tuning gets easier with Geared Tuners. The stranded steel core keeps them in tune.
Will the really high tension of the D string damage the bridge? Should you add parchment under the A because it's steel?
If you havre a soft bridge (sometimes cheaper bridges can be softer) that could happen. Heavy tension strings could start to dig into the bridge if it's unusually soft. But with the medium tension strings, it shouldn't be a problem.
what song is it he is playing?
Tchaikovsky violin concerto d major movement 1
Forgive me . . . what is the excerpt you're playing for these comparisons? Love your playing, and it makes it hard to choose!
I am wondering as well
A small part of Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto
Mikey can play on a cardboard box with rubberbands and make it sound good...
Would love to see the same analysis of Helicore viola strings
ooh,...I've still got so many violin strings to get through. But I promise I'll get to them someday
YES PLEASE, It’s not that much work too make these videos
The best strings for electric violin. I always use it. The sound is little bit buzz, like saxophone.But depend with the violin pick up and the amp
Good stuff! Thanks Hiromi!
Is it like thomastik super flexible or brighter 🤔. My violin is electric with pick-up piezo
3:29 Song name?
It's from the 1st mvt. of the Tchaikovsky Concerto,
@@Fiddlershop I think it sounds great on a 5 String Cello. The Wound E String is often called a "Non Whistling E" because the Wrap wire gets rid of the Squeaking noise.
Can you try helicore octave strings? My thinking is it might make for quite a fun video given they're an entire octave lower!
A few things that I noticed about Helicore strings is more projection and volume and to me the biggest is they stay in tune,like forever! Perfect for country and irish fiddling. Don't be so snooty! Not everyone that loves the violin plays classical music!
Awesome! Please forgive my baggage 🙇
@@Fiddlershop May you be three steps in heaven before the devil knows you're gone!
Bright tone is the best, I prefer it for all my instruments. Helicores are the best for this
What about the Titanium A??
The NS Violin String set is basically the same set (Helicore).
Steel E - 6:44
Aluminium wound E - 7:10
For a 13yo 7th grade advanced student which strings would you recommend between the Dominant or Helicore. The teacher has suggested Dominants but I think he’s just going for what works well on average
How are you 13 in 7th 💀
They also make a Violin Length C String ideal for 5 String Violins.
You guys should do a review on the Thomastik Spirocore strings :)
Great idea! We just added it to our list, thanks!
@@Fiddlershop :D
Hi Michael :-) I have a string related question you might be able to help me with: I've just ordered a set of Helicore Octave violin strings, but I have a problem. My violin is 5-strings electric, has a low C on the bottom, which I usually order separately, and until it was available for violins, it was a viola C. My question is...what kind of string do I need to get to replace that low C to fit my new octave string set? Obviously that low C needs to be an octave lower too. Thank you in advance ❤️
Yeah, so the three options for octave strings are Helicore Octave, Thomastik Infeld Ropecore (superflexible) octave, or SuperSensitive Sensicore Octave. I would normally suggest going with the last one, they usually have the single C string in both violin and longer scale (for viola). But things are a little wonky right now because of the virus...we can't get them at the moment. So, maybe keep looking around, or check back in a lil' bit.
Great video! How is this string compared to El canone and Peter Infeld in terms of power and brightness?
Thanks Rafael! These are probably not as powerful or as bright as either of those strings, but still a very nice set.
Faz um vídeo spirocore da thomastik
I'm getting D'addario Helicore Cello Strings (4/4 Scale Medium Tension + New High E) for my Yinfente 5 String Acoustic-Electric Cello.
I have the wound e on my violin and will get the medium helicores on my electric violin.
The Zyex didn't sound that great here, but on my violin they're awesome. Goes to show sometimes you just need to try different things and see if you and your violin like it.
I may try that Aluminium E solely to reduce whistles... the struggle is real!
Ain't that the truth. This is the reason we keep trying different strings on different violins, here at Fiddlershop. That's great that they Zyex
strings work for you. Thanks for sharing 😃
Love your reviews :) :D
Hey Gibbles! wow, for someone who just started learning violin, the journey looking for violin strings is really hurting my head to find out and experiment with the strings. Basically, I categorise myself as an early intermediate player after more than a year learning this instrument? Also, I am off from a student violin. Currently, I have a German violin ca 1850 which in my opinion has dark and warm sound to it. At the moment I am with Larsen strings already for about 6 months. So I have to replace my strings and begun my journey to find out about a week ago. Articles, reviews, forums, and videos. Somehow I always come back to your channel. Yeah my head hurts. So many information. But your explanation is helping me to make a decision eventually.
My problem is, I think my violin deserves a professional player and get violin strings for pro. But, I ain't a pro player. Not even think to be one. I wanna get Evah Pirazzi, but its out of my budget plus it is more for pro. I am interested with Kaplan Vivo (I think it will give bright to balance dark tone on my violin?). Eventually, I ordered this Helicore. One concern yes, it will be a challenge for me to tune it, but challenge accepted. My decision to go to Helicore is based on your what you said and some research. It is bright and powerful. I think this would be good for my violin to balance the sounds. To be honest, I am just following my guts. Let see. I'll keep you updated!
PS: would be great if you also make a comparison for E strings from different brands?
Hi Rahmilyna! Fantastic, I'm glad to hear all my ramblings make some sense to somebody! And very excited to hear you are up for a challenge, and going with your gut. As you can see, I struggle with making these videos, because everyone's condition and preference is SO unique. So, as you try more, you'll have more of a road map of what you like and don't.
I wouldn't worry too much about "pro" strings vs. "amateur" strings, if you love them, and you can justify spending the money on them, then just enjoy them :-) But cost is for sure a big factor in all of this-I totally get it. I'll think about an E-string video too. I just worry it might get painful to listen to that much E-string 😜
@@Fiddlershop Gibbles! thanks for the response. well, i hear you about pro and amateur strings point of view. But I am still a beginner. So best for me not to go for something huge but more to learn bit by bit. What I am going to do is to have gut strings after this.
I have placed the Helicore strings for G, D and A for about a week now. E is coming (too bad I've got a steel one). The verdict is man its sooooo loud. Not in a bad way. The projection is very wide. For my violin, which has a dark tone (I think) is a good combination. Since the strings provide balance and color into the sounds. And you are right, it responses very quickly. Like for instance sautille, ricochet, and spicatto. I managed to have my practice routine better to listen to these violin bowing technique sounds. In conclusion, this strings are for dark tone violin on preference not make it darker and somber. As you said, it based on your preference. I like the dark sound but also warm and more tone rather than just dark.
I'll keep you updated on how it goes in few weeks time. Thanks Gibbles!
Since we're on the subject of correct pronunciation, "Aluminum" (2:00) is more correctly pronounced "Alu-min-ium"..!! Helpful review though..!! ;-)
Hi John! I assume you are located on the other side of the Atlantic compared to Fiddlershop lol. It's interesting with pronunciations, that's for sure. The tomato and potato debate, for instance, ha ha!! :) Thanks :)
Nah, across the Pacific. I'm in Australia..!! The English language speakers and the Americans are two peoples divided by a common language..!! @@Fiddlershop
I can count only one 'I' in a-lum-i-num..... just sayin'.
@@johntait491 Americans and Australians/English people pronounce it differently
In French, it's aluminium. Maybe that's where the pronunciation comes from.
The Heck-ee-cores are reasonably priced, but experiences in Asia (both in Korea and in Thailand) have led this Canadian citizen violist-violinist to sadly report that their quality-control, despite their own vaunted claims to have "the most stringent quality-control in the industry" is absolutely wretched, at least for viola; they are preternaturally prone to snap VERY prematurely without any visual warning in terms of visible wear, and without any hint in terms of sound loss either. E.g., testing a new purchase of viola in Seoul in the autumn of 2008, two different strings (A and G, if i recall) snapped without warning within the space of less than a week. More recently, on stage in the viola section of the Thailand Phil in Greater Bangkok, the G-string snapped in the tuning process a few seconds before commencing the Tschaikovskiy "Francesca di Rimini" in the second half of a concert; annoying as all get out, since the nature of the piece is that there is no place to sneak back on stage after replacing the broken string. Arrgh...
One string-instrument shop in central Bangkok now refuses to sell them (or any D'Addario orchestral product, in fact) precisely because of so many reports from other customers with that same lament--- unwarranted and unexpected "snappage". Disturbing... and twice i have written to D'Addario to complain about this, with my concerns / "perturbs" basically dismissed without any sympathy or offer of compensation. Also very disturbing...
i have these installed on a bright violin and its so loud :p
Thanks for watching! If you'd like some recommendations for different strings, please contact our customer service team at support@fiddlershop.com
Have you tried the Daddario that makes a violin sound like a cello?
The Helicore octave strings are something we're looking into. For the time being, you could also check out SuperSensitive Sensicore octave strings, or also Thomastik Superflexible: ua-cam.com/video/HsLcNpw09D8/v-deo.html
get on with it!!!!
The Wound E String is a bit easier to bow.
Thanks for sharing!
2:48 you also had the HP 4645!?!? It's the most frustrating printer ever! It is unleashing all of the demons in my house!
It would go for the slowest response in your string charts!
I know 4 more people around me who bought this printer and have the same urge to beat it to death
LOL! I just got it from a thrift store for a few bucks in hopes that it worked, but....it didn't!
Helicore are the only steel strings I have found that I have found that remotely sound like a decent synthetic core.
So true, many times I forget that they are steel core!
Destroying a printer is a very UNhealthy way to manage your frustration
And we know it 🤣🤣🤣
hella cawwww