What is the core material of the Pirastro Permanent E string?

The string features a rope core construction. This design provides a flexible feel while maintaining the strength and stability of metal.

Is this string suitable for arco playing?

Yes, the Permanent series is specifically designed for arco and soloistic playing. It offers a quick bow response that is highly valued by orchestral musicians.

How does the volume of the Permanent E string compare to others?

It is designed to produce a large volume and high projection. This makes it an excellent choice for soloists who need to ensure the bass is heard clearly in a large hall.

Can I use this string on an electric double bass?

Yes, the metal construction makes it suitable for electric double basses. It is specifically compatible with instruments that utilise magnetic pickups.

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

The Pirastro Permanent E string is known for having a very quick play-in time. It achieves its full tonal potential and tuning stability shortly after being fitted.

What is the primary tonal character of this string?

The sound is described as clear and focused. It avoids the dark or muffled tones sometimes associated with the double bass, offering a more brilliant, soloistic profile.

What is the typical price for a single Permanent Orchestra E string?

The typical price for this individual string is approximately £87.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and regional taxes.

Does this string offer good tuning stability?

Yes, the metal-based rope core construction results in exceptional tuning stability. It is less sensitive to environmental changes than gut or some synthetic strings.

Is the Permanent E string suitable for jazz pizzicato?

While it is primarily designed for arco and soloistic playing, its clear and focused sound can be used for various styles. However, it is marketed specifically for its orchestral and bowing performance.

Why would a soloist choose the Permanent E string?

Soloists often choose it to counteract the naturally quieter volume of the double bass. The string's high projection ensures the low frequencies remain audible and defined.

How does the rope core affect the bow response?

The rope core provides a quick response to the bow's movement. This allows for precise articulation and easier execution of complex orchestral passages.

Is this a light, medium, or heavy tension string?

The standard Orchestra Permanent E string is typically balanced for orchestral tension. It is designed to provide maximum volume without requiring excessive physical effort from the player.

Gear article

Pirastro Permanent Orchestra Double Bass E String

The Pirastro Permanent Orchestra Double Bass E string is a professional-grade rope core string designed for high volume and projection. It is engineered primarily for arco and soloistic playing, offering a clear, focused sound and immediate bow response.

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Overview

The Pirastro Permanent E string is a high-performance component of the Permanent series, known for its robustness and clarity. Designed by the German manufacturer Pirastro, this string addresses the specific needs of orchestral players and soloists who require a powerful low end that does not sacrifice definition. The construction utilizes a rope core, which provides a balance between the flexibility of synthetic cores and the stability of solid steel.

Construction and Key Features

The defining characteristic of the Permanent E string is its rope core technology. This design facilitates a quick bow response, allowing the player to articulate notes clearly even in the lowest register. Key technical features include:

High Projection: Engineered to provide a large volume of sound to help the bass carry in large ensembles.
Tuning Stability: The metal construction ensures that the string reaches its pitch quickly and stays there despite temperature or humidity changes.
Quick Play-in Time: Unlike some traditional gut or synthetic strings, the Permanent series reaches its optimal tonal character shortly after installation.
Magnetic Pickup Compatibility: Because of the metal materials used, these strings are fully compatible with electric upright basses using magnetic pickups.

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Sound and Character

The Permanent Orchestra E string is noted for its focused and clear tonal profile. It is designed to counteract the naturally quiet or 'muddy' tendencies of the double bass, providing a brilliance that is essential for soloists. While it provides significant volume, the sound remains controlled and direct, making it a reliable choice for precise orchestral bowing (arco).

Target Audience

This string is primarily suited for professional orchestral bassists and soloists. Its high volume and projection make it ideal for performers who need to stand out against a full orchestra. Additionally, the string's construction makes it a viable option for players of electric double basses who require a string that can interact effectively with magnetic electronics.

Market Context

Within the Pirastro catalogue, the Permanent series sits alongside other high-end options like the Obligato or Evah Pirazzi series, but with a specific focus on the clarity and projection associated with rope core designs. It competes with other professional orchestral strings such as the Thomastik Spirocore or D'Addario Helicore series, though it is specifically voiced for those seeking a more soloistic, focused 'permanent' tone.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the core material of the Pirastro Permanent E string?: The string features a rope core construction. This design provides a flexible feel while maintaining the strength and stability of metal.
Is this string suitable for arco playing?: Yes, the Permanent series is specifically designed for arco and soloistic playing. It offers a quick bow response that is highly valued by orchestral musicians.
How does the volume of the Permanent E string compare to others?: It is designed to produce a large volume and high projection. This makes it an excellent choice for soloists who need to ensure the bass is heard clearly in a large hall.
Can I use this string on an electric double bass?: Yes, the metal construction makes it suitable for electric double basses. It is specifically compatible with instruments that utilise magnetic pickups.
How long does it take for the string to settle after installation?: The Pirastro Permanent E string is known for having a very quick play-in time. It achieves its full tonal potential and tuning stability shortly after being fitted.
What is the primary tonal character of this string?: The sound is described as clear and focused. It avoids the dark or muffled tones sometimes associated with the double bass, offering a more brilliant, soloistic profile.
What is the typical price for a single Permanent Orchestra E string?: The typical price for this individual string is approximately £87.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and regional taxes.
Does this string offer good tuning stability?: Yes, the metal-based rope core construction results in exceptional tuning stability. It is less sensitive to environmental changes than gut or some synthetic strings.
Is the Permanent E string suitable for jazz pizzicato?: While it is primarily designed for arco and soloistic playing, its clear and focused sound can be used for various styles. However, it is marketed specifically for its orchestral and bowing performance.
Why would a soloist choose the Permanent E string?: Soloists often choose it to counteract the naturally quieter volume of the double bass. The string's high projection ensures the low frequencies remain audible and defined.
How does the rope core affect the bow response?: The rope core provides a quick response to the bow's movement. This allows for precise articulation and easier execution of complex orchestral passages.
Is this a light, medium, or heavy tension string?: The standard Orchestra Permanent E string is typically balanced for orchestral tension. It is designed to provide maximum volume without requiring excessive physical effort from the player.