What is the primary material of the Evah Pirazzi Slap A string?

The string features a modern synthetic core that is wound with chrome steel for durability and a smooth feel.

Which bass size is this specific string designed for?

This string is specifically designed for 3/4 size double basses, the most common size for adult players.

What genres of music is this string best suited for?

It is primarily designed for Rockabilly and Slap Bass, though its rich tone also makes it suitable for various pizzicato styles.

How does the tension of this string compare to standard strings?

This string features low tension across the fingerboard, which is intended to provide effortless playability and smoother transitions for slap techniques.

Does this string require a long break-in period?

No, the Evah Pirazzi Slap A string is designed with a reduced playing-in time, allowing it to settle and reach stable performance quickly.

How does this string handle humidity and temperature changes?

The synthetic core is highly resistant to environmental changes, ensuring the string maintains stable tuning and reliable performance in various conditions.

Is the winding material rough on the fingers?

The chrome steel winding is crafted to be smooth, facilitating comfortable movement and transitions during fast playing.

Can this string be used for arco (bowed) playing?

While specifically marketed for slap and pizzicato styles, its chrome steel winding and synthetic core provide a versatile tone, though players focused exclusively on arco may prefer other specialized strings.

What is the typical price for this individual A string?

The typical price for the Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Slap Double Bass A string is approximately £66.

Why would a slap player choose a synthetic core over a gut core?

A synthetic core offers modern reliability and tuning stability that gut strings often lack, while still providing the low-tension feel required for the slap style.

Does this string offer a wide dynamic range?

Yes, the manufacturer describes the string as providing a broad dynamic range, suitable for both subtle and aggressive playing styles.

Is this string compatible with a 1/4 or 1/8 size bass?

No, this specific model is designed for a 3/4 size instrument. Using it on smaller basses like a 1/4 or 1/8 size would likely result in improper tension and fit.

Gear article

Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Slap Double Bass Synthetic A String 3/4 Size

The Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Slap Double Bass Synthetic A String is a specialised hybrid string designed for Rockabilly and Slap Bass performance styles. Featuring a synthetic core with chrome steel winding, it combines modern tuning stability with the tactile low-tension response required for percussive playing.

See live prices

Overview

The Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Slap A string is engineered to meet the specific demands of bassists who utilise percussive 'slap' techniques while still requiring a robust tone for standard pizzicato. Unlike traditional gut strings, which can be temperamental in fluctuating environments, this string utilizes a synthetic core to ensure consistent performance. It is sized specifically for 3/4 scale double basses, which is the standard size for the majority of professional and student instruments.

Design and Construction

The construction of the string centres on a modern synthetic core, providing a foundation that mimics the flexibility of gut without its inherent instability. The core is wound with chrome steel, a material chosen for its durability and smooth surface. This combination is designed to offer a broad dynamic range. Furthermore, the low-tension design is a critical feature, reducing the physical effort required to pull the string away from the fingerboard, which is essential for the rapid-fire percussive strokes found in Rockabilly music.

Performance and Tuning Stability

One of the primary advantages of the Evah Pirazzi Slap series is its resistance to environmental factors. Because the core is synthetic rather than organic, it is largely unaffected by changes in temperature and humidity. This allows for stable tuning during outdoor performances or in venues with varying climates. Additionally, the string is designed with a reduced playing-in time, meaning it reaches its optimal tonal character and pitch stability much faster than traditional alternative materials.

Tonal Character

The tonal profile of the A string is described as rich and consistent. While the low tension facilitates the 'click' and 'thump' of slap styles, the chrome steel winding ensures that the note remains defined and resonant. This versatility makes it suitable for players who need to switch between an aggressive slap style and a more traditional, melodic pizzicato approach without losing clarity in the lower-mid register.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material of the Evah Pirazzi Slap A string?: The string features a modern synthetic core that is wound with chrome steel for durability and a smooth feel.
Which bass size is this specific string designed for?: This string is specifically designed for 3/4 size double basses, the most common size for adult players.
What genres of music is this string best suited for?: It is primarily designed for Rockabilly and Slap Bass, though its rich tone also makes it suitable for various pizzicato styles.
How does the tension of this string compare to standard strings?: This string features low tension across the fingerboard, which is intended to provide effortless playability and smoother transitions for slap techniques.
Does this string require a long break-in period?: No, the Evah Pirazzi Slap A string is designed with a reduced playing-in time, allowing it to settle and reach stable performance quickly.
How does this string handle humidity and temperature changes?: The synthetic core is highly resistant to environmental changes, ensuring the string maintains stable tuning and reliable performance in various conditions.
Is the winding material rough on the fingers?: The chrome steel winding is crafted to be smooth, facilitating comfortable movement and transitions during fast playing.
Can this string be used for arco (bowed) playing?: While specifically marketed for slap and pizzicato styles, its chrome steel winding and synthetic core provide a versatile tone, though players focused exclusively on arco may prefer other specialized strings.
What is the typical price for this individual A string?: The typical price for the Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Slap Double Bass A string is approximately £66.
Why would a slap player choose a synthetic core over a gut core?: A synthetic core offers modern reliability and tuning stability that gut strings often lack, while still providing the low-tension feel required for the slap style.
Does this string offer a wide dynamic range?: Yes, the manufacturer describes the string as providing a broad dynamic range, suitable for both subtle and aggressive playing styles.
Is this string compatible with a 1/4 or 1/8 size bass?: No, this specific model is designed for a 3/4 size instrument. Using it on smaller basses like a 1/4 or 1/8 size would likely result in improper tension and fit.