Reasons for breaking strings frequently

When using steel and nylon strings, the distance between string and fingerboard is less than with gut strings

The following values are given for steel strings and can be adapted for nylon strings by adding a little to these values. Having the strings closer to the fingerboard eases the work of the left hand and extends the life of the string. The measurements are taken exactly above the bridge end of the fingerboard.

* Violin e2 I 2.5 mm - g IV 4.0 mm
* Viola a1 I 5.0 mm - c IV 4.5 mm
* Cello a I 4.5 mm - C IV 6.5 mm
* Double bass I: 9,5 mm - E1 IV 10,5 mm

updated 06.05.2000 11:52  | R&D