What size instrument is this string designed for?

This specific Pirastro Obligato C string is designed for 3/4 size double basses, which is the standard size for most adult orchestral players.

What is the core material of the Pirastro Obligato?

The string features a modern synthetic multifilament core designed to provide the feel and response of a traditional gut string.

Does this string have a ball end or a loop end?

This model is equipped with a ball end, making it compatible with standard double bass tailpieces.

How does humidity affect the Obligato C string?

Because of its synthetic core and chrome steel winding, the string is highly resistant to changes in humidity and temperature, maintaining better tuning stability than natural gut.

What is the tonal profile of this string?

The string is described as having a bright sound with warm overtones, providing a balanced and traditional acoustic character.

What gauge is this specific C string?

This string is manufactured in a medium gauge tension to balance expressive response with ease of playability.

Is the winding material durable?

Yes, the chrome steel winding is designed for consistency and durability, offering a smooth feel that resists corrosion and wear.

Can this string be used for both bowing and plucking?

The Obligato series is designed for versatility, offering an expressive response suitable for both arco (bowed) and pizzicato (plucked) playing styles.

How does the Obligato compare to real gut strings?

It offers a similar expressive response and warmth to real gut but with the added benefits of modern tuning stability and resistance to environmental changes.

Is this a full set or a single string?

This particular product entry refers to a single C string rather than a complete set of four.

What is the typical price for this string?

The typical price for this individual C string is approximately GBP 50, though prices may vary by retailer.

Why choose chrome steel winding over other metals?

Chrome steel is preferred for this model because it provides a consistent feel and is significantly more resistant to climate-related changes than alternative materials.

Gear article

Pirastro Obligato Double Bass C String Ball End

The Pirastro Obligato Double Bass C String is a synthetic-core string designed for 3/4 size instruments, offering a traditional gut-like response with modern tuning stability. It features a multifilament core wound with chrome steel to provide a bright tonal profile enriched by warm overtones.

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Overview

The Pirastro Obligato Double Bass C string is engineered to bridge the gap between historical performance characteristics and contemporary reliability. Designed specifically for the 3/4 size double bass, this individual C string is part of the established Obligato line, which is widely recognised for its use of modern synthetic materials to replicate the complex tonal qualities of sheep gut.

Construction and Materials

The core of the Obligato string consists of a modern synthetic multifilament material. This choice of core is intended to mimic the low density and high flexibility of natural gut, providing the player with a similar 'fleshy' feel under the fingers. The core is protected and reinforced by a precision-wound chrome steel outer layer. This metallic winding is particularly advantageous for its resistance to environmental fluctuations, ensuring the string remains stable in various levels of humidity and temperature.

Tonal Character and Playability

Musically, the Obligato C string is defined by a bright fundamental sound supported by a foundation of warm overtones. Because it utilizes a medium gauge tension, it maintains an expressive and quick response, allowing for nuanced bowing and pizzicato techniques. The chrome steel winding provides a smooth, consistent tactile feel across the length of the string, which aids in accurate intonation and shifting.

Suitability and Applications

This string is particularly suited for orchestral and chamber musicians who require the depth and character of gut strings but demand the stability of steel. Its resistance to climate-induced pitch shifts makes it an excellent choice for touring professionals. The ball-end termination ensures compatibility with standard 3/4 double bass tailpieces, making it a straightforward replacement or addition to an existing set.

Comparative Context

Within the wider market of orchestral strings, the Obligato C stands alongside other high-performance options such as the D'Addario Helicore or Thomastik Spirocore series. While the Spirocore is often noted for its sustain and brightness in jazz contexts, the Obligato focuses on a more 'classical' warmth and gut-like elasticity. Unlike natural gut strings, the Obligato's synthetic core does not require the frequent retuning typically associated with organic materials.

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Frequently asked questions

What size instrument is this string designed for?: This specific Pirastro Obligato C string is designed for 3/4 size double basses, which is the standard size for most adult orchestral players.
What is the core material of the Pirastro Obligato?: The string features a modern synthetic multifilament core designed to provide the feel and response of a traditional gut string.
Does this string have a ball end or a loop end?: This model is equipped with a ball end, making it compatible with standard double bass tailpieces.
How does humidity affect the Obligato C string?: Because of its synthetic core and chrome steel winding, the string is highly resistant to changes in humidity and temperature, maintaining better tuning stability than natural gut.
What is the tonal profile of this string?: The string is described as having a bright sound with warm overtones, providing a balanced and traditional acoustic character.
What gauge is this specific C string?: This string is manufactured in a medium gauge tension to balance expressive response with ease of playability.
Is the winding material durable?: Yes, the chrome steel winding is designed for consistency and durability, offering a smooth feel that resists corrosion and wear.
Can this string be used for both bowing and plucking?: The Obligato series is designed for versatility, offering an expressive response suitable for both arco (bowed) and pizzicato (plucked) playing styles.
How does the Obligato compare to real gut strings?: It offers a similar expressive response and warmth to real gut but with the added benefits of modern tuning stability and resistance to environmental changes.
Is this a full set or a single string?: This particular product entry refers to a single C string rather than a complete set of four.
What is the typical price for this string?: The typical price for this individual C string is approximately GBP 50, though prices may vary by retailer.
Why choose chrome steel winding over other metals?: Chrome steel is preferred for this model because it provides a consistent feel and is significantly more resistant to climate-related changes than alternative materials.