What core material is used in Thomastik SuperFlexible strings?

These strings use a core made of braided steel threads rather than a single solid steel wire. This construction is designed to increase flexibility and improve the harmonic profile of the string.

How does the 'Heavy' tension affect the sound?

The Heavy tension provides a more robust and powerful sound compared to Medium or Light sets. It is often preferred for instruments that require more tension to activate the top plate or for players with a heavy bow hand.

Are these strings suitable for a 16.5-inch viola?

Yes, these are designed for 4/4 size (full-size) violas. They will fit standard professional viola scale lengths commonly found in the 15-inch to 17-inch range.

Do SuperFlexible strings sound harsh like other steel strings?

No, the braided core is specifically designed to eliminate the harshness often found in solid steel strings. They are engineered to allow a radiant tone to emerge from the instrument.

How much does a full set of SuperFlexible Viola strings cost?

A full set typically retails in the price range of approximately £57. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current market conditions.

How do these compare to Thomastik Spirocore strings?

While both use metal cores, SuperFlexible strings focus on a balanced radiance and reduced harshness. Spirocore strings are often noted for their power and 'brightness' specifically in the lower registers.

Can these strings be used for orchestral playing?

Yes, their clear projection and responsive nature make them highly suitable for orchestral environments. They provide the reliability of steel with a tonal quality that blends well in a section.

Are these strings easy to tune?

Like most steel-core strings, they offer excellent tuning stability. They are less sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature than gut or some synthetic strings.

Who is the manufacturer of these strings?

They are manufactured by Thomastik-Infeld, a renowned string maker based in Vienna, Austria, known for high-quality orchestral and fretted instrument strings.

Will these strings fit a small 1/4 size viola?

No, this specific set is for 4/4 size violas. For smaller instruments, you would need a dedicated fractional size set, such as those offered by D'Addario Helicore for 1/4 size instruments.

Do they require a long break-in period?

Steel core strings generally have a very short break-in period compared to synthetic or gut strings. They reach their stable pitch and intended tonal character relatively quickly after installation.

Are SuperFlexible strings suitable for jazz viola?

Yes, their clarity and responsiveness make them popular among crossover and jazz players. The braided core provides a clean attack that works well for amplified or percussive playing styles.

Gear article

Thomastik SuperFlexible Viola String Set 4/4 Size Heavy

The Thomastik SuperFlexible Viola String Set is a professional-grade string collection featuring a unique braided steel thread core designed for 4/4 size instruments. It provides a highly responsive playing experience and a radiant tone that avoids the harshness often associated with traditional solid steel core strings.

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Overview and Construction

The Thomastik SuperFlexible series represents a departure from the manufacturer's standard solid steel core designs. These strings are constructed using a core of braided steel threads, a method intended to increase the flexibility of the string. By reducing the stiffness inherent in solid steel, the SuperFlexible set allows for a more nuanced vibration pattern, which directly influences both the physical feel under the fingers and the acoustic output of the viola.

Tone and Character

The primary sonic objective of the SuperFlexible set is to allow the natural tone of the instrument to radiate without the brittle or harsh edge frequently found in budget steel strings. They are specifically designed to lift the tone, enhancing the inherent beauty of the instrument's sound that can sometimes be muffled or hidden by less responsive string types. The result is a clear, open sound that provides a sense of enlightenment and confidence to the performer.

Playability and Response

Due to the braided thread core, these strings are notably responsive. This responsiveness means that the string reacts quickly to bow pressure and speed changes, making them suitable for technical passages. In the Heavy tension format, they provide a substantial feel and increased resistance, which can help drive larger or more robust instruments that require more energy to vibrate effectively.

Target Audience

This set is particularly suited for violists who prefer the durability and tuning stability of steel but desire a more sophisticated, less 'metallic' timbre. It is an ideal choice for players using full-sized 4/4 violas who need the extra power provided by a Heavy tension string. The SuperFlexible character makes them versatile for various musical settings where clarity and tonal radiance are prioritised.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other Thomastik products like the Spirocore Viola G String (Light), the SuperFlexible set offers a more balanced, less aggressive character across the full set. While synthetic strings like D'Addario Zyex provide a gut-like warmth, SuperFlexible maintains the precision of steel with a unique flexibility that bridges the gap between traditional steel and synthetic cores. For those seeking different tensions or sizes, alternatives like the D'Addario Helicore (1/4 size) or Larsen Violin strings offer different tonal profiles and physical dimensions.

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Frequently asked questions

What core material is used in Thomastik SuperFlexible strings?: These strings use a core made of braided steel threads rather than a single solid steel wire. This construction is designed to increase flexibility and improve the harmonic profile of the string.
How does the 'Heavy' tension affect the sound?: The Heavy tension provides a more robust and powerful sound compared to Medium or Light sets. It is often preferred for instruments that require more tension to activate the top plate or for players with a heavy bow hand.
Are these strings suitable for a 16.5-inch viola?: Yes, these are designed for 4/4 size (full-size) violas. They will fit standard professional viola scale lengths commonly found in the 15-inch to 17-inch range.
Do SuperFlexible strings sound harsh like other steel strings?: No, the braided core is specifically designed to eliminate the harshness often found in solid steel strings. They are engineered to allow a radiant tone to emerge from the instrument.
How much does a full set of SuperFlexible Viola strings cost?: A full set typically retails in the price range of approximately £57. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current market conditions.
How do these compare to Thomastik Spirocore strings?: While both use metal cores, SuperFlexible strings focus on a balanced radiance and reduced harshness. Spirocore strings are often noted for their power and 'brightness' specifically in the lower registers.
Can these strings be used for orchestral playing?: Yes, their clear projection and responsive nature make them highly suitable for orchestral environments. They provide the reliability of steel with a tonal quality that blends well in a section.
Are these strings easy to tune?: Like most steel-core strings, they offer excellent tuning stability. They are less sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature than gut or some synthetic strings.
Who is the manufacturer of these strings?: They are manufactured by Thomastik-Infeld, a renowned string maker based in Vienna, Austria, known for high-quality orchestral and fretted instrument strings.
Will these strings fit a small 1/4 size viola?: No, this specific set is for 4/4 size violas. For smaller instruments, you would need a dedicated fractional size set, such as those offered by D'Addario Helicore for 1/4 size instruments.
Do they require a long break-in period?: Steel core strings generally have a very short break-in period compared to synthetic or gut strings. They reach their stable pitch and intended tonal character relatively quickly after installation.
Are SuperFlexible strings suitable for jazz viola?: Yes, their clarity and responsiveness make them popular among crossover and jazz players. The braided core provides a clean attack that works well for amplified or percussive playing styles.