What is the core material of the Evah Pirazzi Viola A string?

It features a synthetic multifilament fibre core specifically developed by Pirastro. This material is designed to provide the warmth of gut with the stability of synthetic materials.

What winding is used on this specific A string?

The string is wound with aluminium. This is a standard choice for A strings to ensure a bright, clear tone and light physical weight.

How does the 'Heavy' tension affect the playability?

The heavy tension requires more pressure from the bow and fingers to vibrate the string. It is ideal for players who want more resistance and a more powerful, projecting sound.

Is this string suitable for travel?

Yes, because of its synthetic core, it is highly resistant to changes in temperature and humidity. This makes it more stable than gut strings when moving between different climates.

Can I use this string on an electric viola?

Yes, Pirastro notes that Evah Pirazzi strings are well-suited for electric violas. They also perform effectively on acoustic instruments equipped with piezo pickups.

How would you describe the sound of this string?

The sound is described as powerful and brilliant. It is designed to enhance the individual character of the instrument while providing a wide dynamic range.

What is the typical price for a single Evah Pirazzi Viola A string?

The typical price for this individual string is approximately £29. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and regional taxes.

Does this string offer good projection?

Yes, one of the primary design goals of the Evah Pirazzi range is to provide high levels of projection. This allows the power and beauty of the viola to be heard clearly in large venues.

Is the Evah Pirazzi A string better than a D'Addario Zyex string?

It depends on the player's needs; the Zyex is a composite string known for a specific feel, whereas the Evah Pirazzi is marketed for its brilliance and unmatched dynamic range. Both are high-quality options but offer different tonal colors.

Who is the ideal user for the Heavy tension variant?

It is best suited for professional or advanced players who need maximum volume and projection. Players with a heavy bow hand often prefer the resistance of this tension.

How does the aluminium winding compare to chrome winding?

Aluminium winding, as found on this A string, typically offers a brighter and more responsive tone than chrome. For comparison, some G strings like the Thomastik Spirocore use chrome for a different tonal weight.

Do I need to change my bridge setup for a Heavy tension string?

In most cases, a standard setup is fine, but because heavy strings exert more downward pressure, it is always wise to ensure your bridge is properly fitted and not leaning. The extra tension can help drive the soundboard of certain instruments more effectively.

Gear article

Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Viola A String (Aluminium Wound, Heavy)

The Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Viola A String is a premium synthetic core string designed for professional violists seeking high projection and a brilliant, powerful tone. Constructed with a proprietary multifilament fibre core and aluminium winding, this heavy-tension variant is engineered to maximise the individual tonal characteristics and dynamic range of the instrument.

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Overview

The Pirastro Evah Pirazzi Viola A String represents the upper echelon of modern string technology, specifically tailored for players who require a robust and commanding presence. Utilising a specialized synthetic multifilament fibre core developed by Pirastro, these strings are designed to bridge the gap between the warmth of traditional gut and the reliability of modern synthetics. The 'Heavy' tension variant specifically offers increased resistance under the bow, allowing for a more intense and powerful output suited for large concert halls or solo performance.

Construction and Materials

At the heart of the Evah Pirazzi A string is a bespoke synthetic core. Unlike standard nylon, this multifilament fibre is designed to provide high levels of stability and response. The A string is wound with high-quality aluminium, a choice that maintains a light physical weight while providing the necessary surface for clear bow articulation. This specific construction ensures that the string is highly resistant to fluctuations in temperature and humidity, which is a significant advantage for touring musicians or those playing in varying climates.

Tonal Character and Performance

The sound profile of the Evah Pirazzi A string is defined by its brilliance and power. It is designed to emphasise the natural sound of the specific viola it is fitted to, rather than masking it.

Key performance attributes include: * Projection: Exceptional volume and clarity that carries across large spaces. * Dynamic Range: An unmatched ability to transition from delicate pianissimo to forceful fortissimo without losing tonal integrity. * Responsiveness: Quick articulation, making it suitable for complex technical passages. * Versatility: The string is also highly effective when used on electric violas or instruments equipped with piezo pickups.

Suitability and Comparisons

This heavy-tension A string is most suitable for advanced students and professional soloists who possess instruments capable of handling higher tension. While alternative strings like the D'Addario Zyex or Helicore series offer different textures—Zyex being more composite-focused and Helicore being steel-core—the Evah Pirazzi stands out for its specific 'brilliant' character. Compared to lighter tension options like the Thomastik Spirocore Light G, the Evah Pirazzi Heavy A provides a more substantial feel under the fingers, demanding more from the player but yielding greater acoustic rewards.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the core material of the Evah Pirazzi Viola A string?: It features a synthetic multifilament fibre core specifically developed by Pirastro. This material is designed to provide the warmth of gut with the stability of synthetic materials.
What winding is used on this specific A string?: The string is wound with aluminium. This is a standard choice for A strings to ensure a bright, clear tone and light physical weight.
How does the 'Heavy' tension affect the playability?: The heavy tension requires more pressure from the bow and fingers to vibrate the string. It is ideal for players who want more resistance and a more powerful, projecting sound.
Is this string suitable for travel?: Yes, because of its synthetic core, it is highly resistant to changes in temperature and humidity. This makes it more stable than gut strings when moving between different climates.
Can I use this string on an electric viola?: Yes, Pirastro notes that Evah Pirazzi strings are well-suited for electric violas. They also perform effectively on acoustic instruments equipped with piezo pickups.
How would you describe the sound of this string?: The sound is described as powerful and brilliant. It is designed to enhance the individual character of the instrument while providing a wide dynamic range.
What is the typical price for a single Evah Pirazzi Viola A string?: The typical price for this individual string is approximately £29. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and regional taxes.
Does this string offer good projection?: Yes, one of the primary design goals of the Evah Pirazzi range is to provide high levels of projection. This allows the power and beauty of the viola to be heard clearly in large venues.
Is the Evah Pirazzi A string better than a D'Addario Zyex string?: It depends on the player's needs; the Zyex is a composite string known for a specific feel, whereas the Evah Pirazzi is marketed for its brilliance and unmatched dynamic range. Both are high-quality options but offer different tonal colors.
Who is the ideal user for the Heavy tension variant?: It is best suited for professional or advanced players who need maximum volume and projection. Players with a heavy bow hand often prefer the resistance of this tension.
How does the aluminium winding compare to chrome winding?: Aluminium winding, as found on this A string, typically offers a brighter and more responsive tone than chrome. For comparison, some G strings like the Thomastik Spirocore use chrome for a different tonal weight.
Do I need to change my bridge setup for a Heavy tension string?: In most cases, a standard setup is fine, but because heavy strings exert more downward pressure, it is always wise to ensure your bridge is properly fitted and not leaning. The extra tension can help drive the soundboard of certain instruments more effectively.