Do not tune down your instrument if taking a break from playing

Choose the right material for your desired sound

Pro and cons of different materials: The type of material used to manufacture strings influences the sound of the string as well as its diameter. When designed to be strung at the same tension, silver and tungsten result in thinner strings, aluminum and nylon in thicker ones. Strings wound with silver have a warm and powerful tone color, which is preferable for the lower strings in the set. Tungsten is used in the form of round wire built in under the flat wound surface of a low string. Apart from its positive influence on sound, tungsten allows a narrower low string, something which considerably eases fingering and string response. Aluminum winding lends brightness to the string, so to achieve a good compromise between the right sound and the right diameter, this material is used predominantly for the upper strings of a set.

updated 06.05.2000 11:52  | R&D