What is the core material of the Pirastro Original Flat Chrome G string?

The core is constructed from high-tensile rope made from carbon steel. This provides a clear sound with a strong presence and high durability.

What winding is used on this double bass string?

This string features a chrome steel winding. This material is chosen for its bright tonal qualities and its comfortable, smooth feel under the fingers.

What instrument size is this specific string designed for?

The Pirastro 347120 is designed specifically for 3/4 size double basses. It may not fit correctly on smaller or significantly larger instruments.

What type of tailpiece end does this string have?

This G string is equipped with a ball end. This is the standard termination for most modern double bass tailpieces.

What gauge is the Pirastro Original Flat Chrome G string?

It is manufactured in a medium gauge. This gauge is intended to provide a balanced feel and smooth playability for the average musician.

How does this string behave immediately after installation?

The string offers instant playability and high tuning stability. It is designed to settle quickly, making it reliable for immediate professional use.

Who is the primary target audience for this string?

It is primarily designed for orchestral musicians who require clear projection. It is also highly suited for gigging musicians due to its stability.

How does the chrome steel winding affect the sound?

The chrome steel winding adds brightness to the tone. This helps the G string stand out with a clear, defined voice within an ensemble.

What is the typical price for this individual G string?

The typical price for this specific G string is approximately GBP 76. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and regional taxes.

Is the rope core different from a solid steel core?

Yes, a rope core consists of multiple strands of steel twisted together. This generally offers more flexibility and a more complex harmonic profile than a solid core.

Does this string produce a lot of finger noise?

No, the flat chrome steel winding is designed for a comfortable feel and smooth movement. This typically results in less finger noise compared to round-wound alternatives.

Can this string be used for solo playing?

While designed for orchestral projection, its clear sound and brightness make it versatile. However, it is specifically voiced for the balance required in an orchestral setting.

Gear article

Pirastro Original Flat Chrome Double Bass G String

The Pirastro Original Flat Chrome is a high-tensile carbon steel rope core G string designed for 3/4 size double basses. It is engineered for orchestral performance, providing clear projection and immediate tuning stability suitable for professional use.

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Overview

The Pirastro 347120, part of the Original Flat Chrome series, is a premium G string tailored for 3/4 scale double basses. Recognised for its reliability in orchestral settings, the string is constructed to provide a balance between physical durability and tonal clarity. The use of a carbon steel rope core ensures a robust foundation, while the chrome steel winding offers a smooth surface for the player's fingers.

Construction and Materials

The internal architecture of the string features a high-tensile rope core made from carbon steel. This design choice is intended to provide a strong presence and high resistance to tension. The outer winding consists of chrome steel, which is chosen for its brightness and tactile comfort. This combination of materials contributes to the string's 'Flat Chrome' designation, referring to the flat-wound finish that minimises finger noise and facilitates smooth shifting across the fingerboard.

Tonal Characteristics

This string is characterised by a clear projection and a sound with a strong presence, specifically voiced for the needs of orchestral musicians. The chrome steel winding adds a layer of brightness to the overall tone, preventing the sound from becoming muddy in large ensembles. Despite its brightness, the medium gauge ensures that the playability remains smooth and the transitions between notes are well-balanced.

Playability and Stability

A primary feature of the Original Flat Chrome series is its instant playability. Unlike strings that require a long 'break-in' period to reach their true tone and pitch stability, these strings are designed to be stable almost immediately after installation. This makes them particularly suitable for gigging musicians who may need to replace a string shortly before a performance. The medium gauge provides a standard level of resistance that is familiar to most double bassists.

Target Audience

The Pirastro Original Flat Chrome G string is primarily aimed at orchestral bassists who require a string that can project over a full section. Its combination of a ball tailpiece end and 3/4 sizing makes it compatible with the vast majority of standard professional and student double basses. It is also an appropriate choice for gigging professionals who prioritise tuning stability and a clear, bright sound signature.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the core material of the Pirastro Original Flat Chrome G string?: The core is constructed from high-tensile rope made from carbon steel. This provides a clear sound with a strong presence and high durability.
What winding is used on this double bass string?: This string features a chrome steel winding. This material is chosen for its bright tonal qualities and its comfortable, smooth feel under the fingers.
What instrument size is this specific string designed for?: The Pirastro 347120 is designed specifically for 3/4 size double basses. It may not fit correctly on smaller or significantly larger instruments.
What type of tailpiece end does this string have?: This G string is equipped with a ball end. This is the standard termination for most modern double bass tailpieces.
What gauge is the Pirastro Original Flat Chrome G string?: It is manufactured in a medium gauge. This gauge is intended to provide a balanced feel and smooth playability for the average musician.
How does this string behave immediately after installation?: The string offers instant playability and high tuning stability. It is designed to settle quickly, making it reliable for immediate professional use.
Who is the primary target audience for this string?: It is primarily designed for orchestral musicians who require clear projection. It is also highly suited for gigging musicians due to its stability.
How does the chrome steel winding affect the sound?: The chrome steel winding adds brightness to the tone. This helps the G string stand out with a clear, defined voice within an ensemble.
What is the typical price for this individual G string?: The typical price for this specific G string is approximately GBP 76. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and regional taxes.
Is the rope core different from a solid steel core?: Yes, a rope core consists of multiple strands of steel twisted together. This generally offers more flexibility and a more complex harmonic profile than a solid core.
Does this string produce a lot of finger noise?: No, the flat chrome steel winding is designed for a comfortable feel and smooth movement. This typically results in less finger noise compared to round-wound alternatives.
Can this string be used for solo playing?: While designed for orchestral projection, its clear sound and brightness make it versatile. However, it is specifically voiced for the balance required in an orchestral setting.