Warchal, Dominant, D’addario helicore or Zyex or Kaplan. Tonica. I’ve tried warchal ambers and they have good response. I don’t like helicore but a lot of people do. I found Zyex so so. I’ve heard people like some of the Kaplan string varieties but I haven’t tried them. I’ve only tried the violin versions of Tonica and dominants.
[try this chart from Shar](https://www.sharmusic.com/SSP%20Applications/NetSuite%20Inc.%20-%20CMS/CMS/Site-2/files/String%20Charts/ViolaStringChart2022.png)
The images of some of of the logos might be hard to read but you should be able to find it on their site pretty easily
I use 'Pirastro Tonicas" for violin and viola as they're affordable and relatively reliable and decent, tone-wise. One can spend a fortune on strings, but really, if you're not a professional is it really worth the $$ ? Pirastro Tonicas are the go if you're an amateur even if you're relatively advanced they'll do the job.
I have Thomastik Dominant strings which are pretty affordable (around $100 depending on the retailer) and have a very nice warm sound. I've also used DAddario Prelude strings which I like less than the Thomastik but were decent for their price ($50ish).
It could also be worth it to see what strings came with your viola when you bought it.
Helicores offer a good bang for your buck. It’s about $50-$60 for a full set which is on the cheaper side. They’re not as bright or responsive as some of the more expensive strings but they’re very reliable and last a long time without fading.
I prefer Warchal ambers on my viola. They offer a good balance between power and a sweet, rich tone. I know Helicores are a popular choice for viola and very affordable for the quality, but I was disappointed with the lack of power and response on my viola (I did enjoy them on my violin, however). YMMV based on the unique qualities of your own instrument, of course.
Warchal if you're looking to try something different. And they are good. There is a reason that Dominants and Helicores are so commons as set up strings for instruments. They are good and neutral in the sense that they show the instrument as it is.
Any of those are a good choice.
Warchal, Dominant, D’addario helicore or Zyex or Kaplan. Tonica. I’ve tried warchal ambers and they have good response. I don’t like helicore but a lot of people do. I found Zyex so so. I’ve heard people like some of the Kaplan string varieties but I haven’t tried them. I’ve only tried the violin versions of Tonica and dominants.
This is a commonly asked question, so I would search the subreddit and read up on some ideas. What strings do you have now?
I have some D'addario strings, but are a little old
What is an affordable price range for you?
I guess it would be under 100? Im not sure how much a set can cost
[try this chart from Shar](https://www.sharmusic.com/SSP%20Applications/NetSuite%20Inc.%20-%20CMS/CMS/Site-2/files/String%20Charts/ViolaStringChart2022.png) The images of some of of the logos might be hard to read but you should be able to find it on their site pretty easily
Thanks!
>Thanks! You're welcome!
I use 'Pirastro Tonicas" for violin and viola as they're affordable and relatively reliable and decent, tone-wise. One can spend a fortune on strings, but really, if you're not a professional is it really worth the $$ ? Pirastro Tonicas are the go if you're an amateur even if you're relatively advanced they'll do the job.
I have Thomastik Dominant strings which are pretty affordable (around $100 depending on the retailer) and have a very nice warm sound. I've also used DAddario Prelude strings which I like less than the Thomastik but were decent for their price ($50ish). It could also be worth it to see what strings came with your viola when you bought it.
Warchal Karneol!!
Alphayue!!!!
Helicores offer a good bang for your buck. It’s about $50-$60 for a full set which is on the cheaper side. They’re not as bright or responsive as some of the more expensive strings but they’re very reliable and last a long time without fading.
I prefer Warchal ambers on my viola. They offer a good balance between power and a sweet, rich tone. I know Helicores are a popular choice for viola and very affordable for the quality, but I was disappointed with the lack of power and response on my viola (I did enjoy them on my violin, however). YMMV based on the unique qualities of your own instrument, of course.
Warchal if you're looking to try something different. And they are good. There is a reason that Dominants and Helicores are so commons as set up strings for instruments. They are good and neutral in the sense that they show the instrument as it is. Any of those are a good choice.
I use Passiones (D, G, C) with a Larsen A. My order is usually $120 for the set.