What is the core material of the Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Slap E string?

The string features a synthetic core developed with exclusive materials to provide sound quality similar to gut with increased durability. This core is designed to remain stable under various environmental conditions.

What size double bass is this string designed for?

This specific E string is designed for 3/4 size double basses, which is the standard size for most adult professional and student instruments.

What material is used for the winding?

The string is wound with finely polished chrome steel. This provides a smooth surface for the fingers and contributes to its dark, rich tonal character.

Is this string suitable for orchestral playing?

While primarily designed for slap and pizzicato styles, its dark tone and excellent projection make it versatile. However, players strictly performing arco (bowed) repertoire may prefer a standard tension Evah Pirazzi string.

How does the tension of this string feel?

The string is designed with low tension. This makes it easier to press down and 'slap' against the fingerboard compared to standard orchestral strings.

Does this string handle humidity changes well?

Yes, the synthetic core is highly resistant to environmental changes. Unlike gut strings, it will not significantly swell or shrink when moved between different temperatures or humidity levels.

Can I use this E string individually or must it be part of a set?

It can be purchased and used as an individual E string. However, for the most balanced tonal response across the instrument, it is often paired with the rest of the Evah Pirazzi Slap set.

What is the typical price for this individual E string?

The typical price for the individual 3/4 size E string is approximately £75. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and shipping costs.

Is the chrome steel winding polished?

Yes, the chrome steel is finely polished. This ensures a smooth feel, which is critical for preventing finger irritation during the rapid movements required in slap bass.

How does the sound compare to a gut string?

It offers a dark, rich tone that mimics the warmth of gut. However, it typically has more projection and significantly better pitch stability than natural gut.

What musical genres is this string best for?

It is ideal for rockabilly, jazz, and psychobilly. It is also suitable for any modern style that requires a mix of pizzicato and percussive slap techniques.

Does this string offer a good dynamic range?

Yes, despite the low tension, it is designed to meet the demands of modern musicians by providing an unparalleled dynamic range. It can handle both soft, subtle passages and loud, aggressive playing.

Gear article

Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Slap Double Bass Synthetic E String

The Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Slap Double Bass Synthetic E String is a specialised string designed for 3/4 size double basses, featuring a modern synthetic core and chrome steel winding. It is engineered specifically to balance the low-tension requirements of slap and pizzicato techniques with a rich, dark tonal character and environmental stability.

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Overview

The Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Slap E string represents a specialised component of the Evah Pirazzi Slap set, tailored for the unique demands of upright bassists working in genres like rockabilly, psychobilly, and jazz. While traditional gut strings were once the standard for these styles, this synthetic alternative offers modern reliability without sacrificing the traditional dark, rich tone expected from a professional orchestral or slap string.

Design and Materials

The core of the string is constructed from a proprietary synthetic material co-developed by Pirastro to provide a consistent response that is highly resistant to changes in temperature and humidity. Unlike natural gut, which can expand or contract in adverse conditions, this synthetic core maintains its pitch stability. The E string is specifically wound with finely polished chrome steel, which adds mass and durability while ensuring a smooth surface for the player's hands.

Tonal Profile and Playability

The primary characteristic of this E string is its dark, rich tone coupled with excellent projection. Despite being designed for 'slap' styles—which require a lower tension for the percussive 'click' against the fingerboard—it retains a complex dynamic range. The low tension ensures smooth playability across the entire length of the fingerboard, reducing player fatigue during extended performances.

Suitability and Style

This string is particularly suited for modern musicians who require a hybrid approach. It performs exceptionally well for:

Slap Bass: The low tension allows for the rapid percussive techniques essential to rockabilly.
Pizzicato: The synthetic core provides a warm sustain and clear fundamental frequency.
Environmentally Challenging Gigs: Ideal for outdoor performances where temperature fluctuations would detune gut strings.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to other strings in the Pirastro catalogue or industry alternatives like the D'Addario Zyex or Thomastik Spirocore series, the Evah Pirazzi Slap E string offers a more specialised low-tension feel. While Spirocore strings are known for their bright, metallic 'growl' and high tension, the Evah Pirazzi Slap E is significantly darker and softer under the fingers. It provides a more traditional aesthetic similar to gut, but with the tuning stability found in synthetic strings like the D'Addario Zyex.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the core material of the Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Slap E string?: The string features a synthetic core developed with exclusive materials to provide sound quality similar to gut with increased durability. This core is designed to remain stable under various environmental conditions.
What size double bass is this string designed for?: This specific E string is designed for 3/4 size double basses, which is the standard size for most adult professional and student instruments.
What material is used for the winding?: The string is wound with finely polished chrome steel. This provides a smooth surface for the fingers and contributes to its dark, rich tonal character.
Is this string suitable for orchestral playing?: While primarily designed for slap and pizzicato styles, its dark tone and excellent projection make it versatile. However, players strictly performing arco (bowed) repertoire may prefer a standard tension Evah Pirazzi string.
How does the tension of this string feel?: The string is designed with low tension. This makes it easier to press down and 'slap' against the fingerboard compared to standard orchestral strings.
Does this string handle humidity changes well?: Yes, the synthetic core is highly resistant to environmental changes. Unlike gut strings, it will not significantly swell or shrink when moved between different temperatures or humidity levels.
Can I use this E string individually or must it be part of a set?: It can be purchased and used as an individual E string. However, for the most balanced tonal response across the instrument, it is often paired with the rest of the Evah Pirazzi Slap set.
What is the typical price for this individual E string?: The typical price for the individual 3/4 size E string is approximately £75. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and shipping costs.
Is the chrome steel winding polished?: Yes, the chrome steel is finely polished. This ensures a smooth feel, which is critical for preventing finger irritation during the rapid movements required in slap bass.
How does the sound compare to a gut string?: It offers a dark, rich tone that mimics the warmth of gut. However, it typically has more projection and significantly better pitch stability than natural gut.
What musical genres is this string best for?: It is ideal for rockabilly, jazz, and psychobilly. It is also suitable for any modern style that requires a mix of pizzicato and percussive slap techniques.
Does this string offer a good dynamic range?: Yes, despite the low tension, it is designed to meet the demands of modern musicians by providing an unparalleled dynamic range. It can handle both soft, subtle passages and loud, aggressive playing.