What is a C (Extended E) string used for?

This string is designed for double basses equipped with a C-extension, allowing the player to reach notes below the standard low E, down to a low C. It is longer than a standard E string to accommodate the extra length of the extension fingerboard.

What material is the core of this string made from?

The core is made from Zyex, a proprietary synthetic material developed by D'Addario. This material is designed to simulate the feel and sound of natural gut strings.

How long does it take for Zyex strings to settle in?

D'Addario Zyex strings are known for a very fast break-in period. They typically settle on the instrument and maintain stable pitch within just a few hours of being tuned to pitch.

Does this string work well in humid climates?

Yes, the synthetic Zyex core is incredibly stable under varying climate conditions. Unlike natural gut strings, it does not react significantly to changes in temperature or humidity.

What size instrument is this string designed for?

This specific string is designed for a 3/4 size double bass. It is the standard size for most adult players and professional orchestral musicians.

How does the sound compare to natural gut?

The string is designed to provide a rich, complex tone similar to sheep gut. It offers a warm, gut-like character without the high cost or fragility associated with organic materials.

What is the tension level of this string?

This particular D'Addario Zyex C string is rated as 'Medium' tension. This provides a balance between ease of playability and sufficient resistance for orchestral bowing.

Is this string sold as a full set?

While Zyex strings are available in sets, this specific product is the individual C (Extended E) string. It is often purchased separately to replace a worn extension string or to mix with other string types.

Can I use this on a bass without an extension?

No, this string is specifically manufactured to the length required for a C-extension. It would be too long for a standard double bass tailpiece-to-pegbox setup without an extension.

How does Zyex compare to D'Addario Helicore strings?

Helicore strings feature a multi-stranded steel core, which generally produces a clearer, more focused orchestral sound. Zyex strings use a synthetic core to achieve a warmer, more traditional 'gut' tone.

What is the typical price for this string?

The typical price for the D'Addario Zyex Double Bass C string is approximately £96. This reflects its status as a specialised, high-performance synthetic string.

Is Zyex suitable for both pizzicato and arco playing?

Yes, Zyex strings are designed to be versatile. They respond well to the bow (arco) with a rich tone and also provide a warm, satisfying thump when played pizzicato, mimicking the versatility of gut.

Gear article

D'Addario Zyex Double Bass C String (Extended E)

The D'Addario Zyex Double Bass C string is a synthetic-core orchestral string designed for 3/4 size instruments equipped with a low C extension. It is engineered to replicate the tonal characteristics of traditional sheep gut while providing significantly improved pitch stability and resistance to climate changes.

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Overview

The D'Addario Zyex C string is a specialised single string intended for double basses featuring an 'Extended E' or C-extension mechanism. Constructed using a proprietary synthetic material known as Zyex, the string aims to bridge the gap between the organic warmth of gut strings and the reliability of modern technology. It is specifically scaled for 3/4 size basses, which is the standard size for most professional and student orchestral players.

Material and Construction

The core of the string is made from Zyex, a high-performance synthetic polymer. This material was developed to provide a closer match to the physical properties of gut than traditional nylon or perlon cores. The synthetic nature of the core makes it impervious to the hygroscopic issues that plague natural gut, meaning the string will not swell or contract significantly when exposed to variations in humidity or temperature.

Tonal Character and Performance

The primary design goal of the Zyex series is to produce a rich, complex tone that mimics the 'earthy' qualities of gut. Unlike some steel-core strings that can sound overly bright or metallic, the Zyex C string offers a warmer fundamental with sophisticated overtones. A notable performance feature is its 'settle-in' time; while many synthetic or gut strings require days to reach a stable pitch, D'Addario Zyex strings generally stabilise within a few hours of installation.

Suitability and Comparison

This string is an ideal choice for orchestral bassists who require a low C extension but prefer a softer, more flexible feel under the fingers compared to chrome-wound steel strings like the Thomastik Spirocore series. It is particularly suited for players performing in diverse environments where climate control is not guaranteed. While D'Addario also produces the Helicore series, which features a multi-stranded steel core, the Zyex range is specifically targeted at those seeking the gut-like aesthetic without the high cost and maintenance of animal-derived products.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a C (Extended E) string used for?: This string is designed for double basses equipped with a C-extension, allowing the player to reach notes below the standard low E, down to a low C. It is longer than a standard E string to accommodate the extra length of the extension fingerboard.
What material is the core of this string made from?: The core is made from Zyex, a proprietary synthetic material developed by D'Addario. This material is designed to simulate the feel and sound of natural gut strings.
How long does it take for Zyex strings to settle in?: D'Addario Zyex strings are known for a very fast break-in period. They typically settle on the instrument and maintain stable pitch within just a few hours of being tuned to pitch.
Does this string work well in humid climates?: Yes, the synthetic Zyex core is incredibly stable under varying climate conditions. Unlike natural gut strings, it does not react significantly to changes in temperature or humidity.
What size instrument is this string designed for?: This specific string is designed for a 3/4 size double bass. It is the standard size for most adult players and professional orchestral musicians.
How does the sound compare to natural gut?: The string is designed to provide a rich, complex tone similar to sheep gut. It offers a warm, gut-like character without the high cost or fragility associated with organic materials.
What is the tension level of this string?: This particular D'Addario Zyex C string is rated as 'Medium' tension. This provides a balance between ease of playability and sufficient resistance for orchestral bowing.
Is this string sold as a full set?: While Zyex strings are available in sets, this specific product is the individual C (Extended E) string. It is often purchased separately to replace a worn extension string or to mix with other string types.
Can I use this on a bass without an extension?: No, this string is specifically manufactured to the length required for a C-extension. It would be too long for a standard double bass tailpiece-to-pegbox setup without an extension.
How does Zyex compare to D'Addario Helicore strings?: Helicore strings feature a multi-stranded steel core, which generally produces a clearer, more focused orchestral sound. Zyex strings use a synthetic core to achieve a warmer, more traditional 'gut' tone.
What is the typical price for this string?: The typical price for the D'Addario Zyex Double Bass C string is approximately £96. This reflects its status as a specialised, high-performance synthetic string.
Is Zyex suitable for both pizzicato and arco playing?: Yes, Zyex strings are designed to be versatile. They respond well to the bow (arco) with a rich tone and also provide a warm, satisfying thump when played pizzicato, mimicking the versatility of gut.