Violin Forum/Message Board Forum Index Violin Forum/Message Board
Provided by Violin Vision
 
 FAQFAQ   SearchSearch   MemberlistMemberlist   UsergroupsUsergroups   RegisterRegister 
 ProfileProfile   Log in to check your private messagesLog in to check your private messages   Log inLog in 

String tension and sound quality

 
Post new topic   Reply to topic    Violin Forum/Message Board Forum Index -> Violin Making and Restoration Forum
View previous topic :: View next topic  
Author Message
Mikes
Member


Joined: 28 Mar 2007
Posts: 80
Location: Vermont, USA

PostPosted: Sat May 16, 2009 8:35 am    Post subject: String tension and sound quality Reply with quote

In the May issue of the Strad James Ehnes talks about how the instruments that he played for his Homage DVD were set-up using heavy gauge strings on the G and E. I was wondering how often the pros choose to mix string gauges and why? It seems like it must increase tension on the instrument in a good way?

This got me thinking back about six months ago when I was learning some fiddle tunes played with ADAE tuning. When I tuned my #1 up to that tuning the instrument really seemed to improve in sound, it became slightly more ringy with better sustain; the cohesiveness of the sound of double stops and drones became richer and more complementary and all the strings seemed to have a much richer tone. Based on this experience it seems like the slightly increased string tension from tuning up the G string impacted this instrument positively. Would it be correct to think that changing the string gauge on this instrument would result in the same improvement in sound?

Mike S
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
MANFIO
Super Member


Joined: 11 Apr 2007
Posts: 458
Location: Sao Paulo

PostPosted: Sat May 16, 2009 8:59 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

I would say yes. If that particular string sounded better when tuned a bit up it means that it will sound better with a heavy gouge string, or other string brand.

This process is part of the set up of the instrument. An experienced player may help you with that.
_________________
www.manfio.com

http://www.flickr.com/photos/7875988@N02/with/464604020/
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Send e-mail Visit poster's website
Display posts from previous:   
Post new topic   Reply to topic    Violin Forum/Message Board Forum Index -> Violin Making and Restoration Forum All times are GMT - 4 Hours
Page 1 of 1

 
Jump to:  
You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum


Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2005 phpBB Group