What is the primary function of the Pirastro Permanent High Solo C string?

It is designed to provide a high C tuning for double bassists, offering a clear, focused sound tailored for solo and arco playing.

What type of core does this string use?

The string features a rope core, which helps provide a quick bow response and a large volume of sound.

Is this string suitable for orchestral playing?

Yes, while it is designed for soloistic projection, its clear and focused tone makes it highly suitable for arco passages in an orchestral setting.

How long does it take for the string to settle after installation?

The Pirastro Permanent is designed for a very quick play-in time, reaching its full tonal potential and tuning stability shortly after being fitted.

Can I use this string on an electric double bass?

Yes, the metal construction makes these strings compatible with magnetic pickups commonly found on electric double basses.

Does this string offer good projection?

Yes, it is specifically engineered to provide a large amount of volume and projection to counteract the naturally quieter volume of the bass.

How does the rope core affect the bow response?

The rope core allows for a faster response to the bow, making it easier for the player to articulate notes quickly and clearly.

Is the tuning stability reliable on this model?

Yes, the materials used in the Pirastro Permanent series provide exceptional tuning stability even under rigorous playing conditions.

What is the typical price for a single High C string?

The typical price for this specific individual string is approximately £63.00.

Is this string better for pizzicato or arco?

While it can be used for both, the manufacturer specifically highlights its suitability for arco and soloistic playing due to its focused sound.

What is the tonal character of the Pirastro Permanent High Solo C?

The tone is described as clear, focused, and capable of high volume, making it ideal for players who need to stand out.

How does the metal construction benefit the player?

The metal construction provides the necessary mass for projection and ensures the string is durable and stays in tune reliably.

Gear article

Pirastro Permanent Double Bass High Solo C String

The Pirastro Permanent High Solo C is a specialist double bass string designed to provide maximum projection and a clear, focused tonal profile. Engineered with a rope core construction, it is specifically tailored for arco soloists who require a quick bow response and enhanced volume.

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Overview and Construction

The Pirastro Permanent High Solo C string is a high-performance component for the double bass, designed to occupy the upper register of the instrument. It features a sophisticated rope core construction, which combines the flexibility of synthetic materials with the durability and stability of metal. This design is engineered to deliver a clear, focused sound that remains stable under varying performance conditions.

Performance and Bow Response

One of the primary characteristics of the Permanent series is its rapid bow response. This is particularly critical for soloists performing complex arco passages where articulation must be immediate. The string is designed to generate a significant amount of volume and projection, helping the double bass—an instrument naturally prone to lower volume levels—to be heard clearly in a soloistic or orchestral context.

Tuning Stability and Play-in Time

Pirastro has engineered the Permanent strings to minimize the 'play-in' period, meaning the strings reach their optimal tonal character shortly after installation. The metal-based construction ensures exceptional tuning stability, reducing the need for frequent adjustments during performances or practice sessions. This reliability is a key factor for professional musicians who require consistent tension.

Magnetic Pickup Compatibility

Due to the metallic properties of the rope core and winding, the Pirastro Permanent High Solo C is fully compatible with electric double basses. Unlike purely synthetic strings, these materials interact effectively with magnetic pickups, making them a versatile choice for players who transition between acoustic and electric instruments.

Suitability and Comparisons

The High Solo C is specifically suited for bassists performing in the solo register or those using a five-string setup with a high C. While other brands like Thomastik or D'Addario offer alternative C strings (such as the Spirocore or Helicore series), the Permanent series distinguishes itself through its specific focus on arco clarity and soloistic projection.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Pirastro Permanent High Solo C string?: It is designed to provide a high C tuning for double bassists, offering a clear, focused sound tailored for solo and arco playing.
What type of core does this string use?: The string features a rope core, which helps provide a quick bow response and a large volume of sound.
Is this string suitable for orchestral playing?: Yes, while it is designed for soloistic projection, its clear and focused tone makes it highly suitable for arco passages in an orchestral setting.
How long does it take for the string to settle after installation?: The Pirastro Permanent is designed for a very quick play-in time, reaching its full tonal potential and tuning stability shortly after being fitted.
Can I use this string on an electric double bass?: Yes, the metal construction makes these strings compatible with magnetic pickups commonly found on electric double basses.
Does this string offer good projection?: Yes, it is specifically engineered to provide a large amount of volume and projection to counteract the naturally quieter volume of the bass.
How does the rope core affect the bow response?: The rope core allows for a faster response to the bow, making it easier for the player to articulate notes quickly and clearly.
Is the tuning stability reliable on this model?: Yes, the materials used in the Pirastro Permanent series provide exceptional tuning stability even under rigorous playing conditions.
What is the typical price for a single High C string?: The typical price for this specific individual string is approximately £63.00.
Is this string better for pizzicato or arco?: While it can be used for both, the manufacturer specifically highlights its suitability for arco and soloistic playing due to its focused sound.
What is the tonal character of the Pirastro Permanent High Solo C?: The tone is described as clear, focused, and capable of high volume, making it ideal for players who need to stand out.
How does the metal construction benefit the player?: The metal construction provides the necessary mass for projection and ensures the string is durable and stays in tune reliably.