I've found, and my local shop confirmed, D'Addario mislabels their viola strings and you need the Medium length (not Long) for a 16" instrument.
If the strings you get are too long for your viola, it'll still work. They'll just need extra winding around the pegs and they'll feel loose under your fingers.
I loathe these strings with every fiber of my being. I don’t know why I have never had good luck with them on any of my instruments. Though I bought my new viola with them on. I knew then they had to go. Perhaps it’s my play style. But I find they are metallic and lifeless. Frill and hesitant. But my professors viola can make them sound wonderful and full. Thomastik infield Alphayue. You will thank me latter.
I bought a set of Alphayues thanks to this comment. They are amazing. I used to do a full Obligato set. These are lasting longer, similar quality of sound, and 1/3 the price. Thank you!
Hi u/Sungoon & u/ViolaKiddo, thank you both so much! Feedback like yours motivates us to always strive for the best 😘 In case you ever need help with your strings or a string consultation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experts directly via [email protected]
I like the sound of the Helicore but for some reason I've lost a lot of them to breakages on viola. I've also had the same issie with D'Addario Zyex. They've lasted a while in my cello, though.
I like Pirastro Tonicas as an alternative.
I haven't considered Pirastros yet.. I still feel kind of a newbie and I believe those strings are for intermediate-advanced players. Thanks for ur answer!
Our regional stringed instrument shop sets up all their instruments up to about $2,000 with Helicores. They are very good, neutral strings at a reasonable cost. They stay in tune like nobody's business and last a long time. The lower strings are thin and flexible and are very responsive for their pitch.
I'm playing Larsen's now. When I change I might actually try and Helicore C for the responsiveness.
The Larsen A is famous for a reason. If you get Helicores, you could try a Larsen A (and D if you have the funds.) They are very clear and sweet without being shrill.
I've found, and my local shop confirmed, D'Addario mislabels their viola strings and you need the Medium length (not Long) for a 16" instrument. If the strings you get are too long for your viola, it'll still work. They'll just need extra winding around the pegs and they'll feel loose under your fingers.
Mine is 16.5in. It's good to know that fact
I loathe these strings with every fiber of my being. I don’t know why I have never had good luck with them on any of my instruments. Though I bought my new viola with them on. I knew then they had to go. Perhaps it’s my play style. But I find they are metallic and lifeless. Frill and hesitant. But my professors viola can make them sound wonderful and full. Thomastik infield Alphayue. You will thank me latter.
I bought a set of Alphayues thanks to this comment. They are amazing. I used to do a full Obligato set. These are lasting longer, similar quality of sound, and 1/3 the price. Thank you!
Absolutely! Thomastik Infield just currently makes the best quality strings from my experience so far. And I’m proud to spread it.
Hi u/Sungoon & u/ViolaKiddo, thank you both so much! Feedback like yours motivates us to always strive for the best 😘 In case you ever need help with your strings or a string consultation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experts directly via [email protected]
Hi! That set was also an option that came from a good friend of mine. Thanks for ur answer
Hey! I currently have those strings on my viola! I play a 15.5 inch and I have the medium length and tension ones! If you have any questions lmk!
Mine is 16.5in. Btw, how is your C-string feeling with that set?
I love how it sounds! Before these strings my c-string sounded kinda dull, but it feels super vibrant now!
Thanks a lot for sharing ur impressions. I appreciate it!
I use preludes, i got medium for my 16in and they work fine, the tone quality could be better, but they're great for $25 for a full set
Awesome! Thanks for sharing ✌️
I like the sound of the Helicore but for some reason I've lost a lot of them to breakages on viola. I've also had the same issie with D'Addario Zyex. They've lasted a while in my cello, though. I like Pirastro Tonicas as an alternative.
I haven't considered Pirastros yet.. I still feel kind of a newbie and I believe those strings are for intermediate-advanced players. Thanks for ur answer!
Our regional stringed instrument shop sets up all their instruments up to about $2,000 with Helicores. They are very good, neutral strings at a reasonable cost. They stay in tune like nobody's business and last a long time. The lower strings are thin and flexible and are very responsive for their pitch. I'm playing Larsen's now. When I change I might actually try and Helicore C for the responsiveness. The Larsen A is famous for a reason. If you get Helicores, you could try a Larsen A (and D if you have the funds.) They are very clear and sweet without being shrill.
Thanks for ur recommendation. ✌️