How to Change Strings on a violin, viola, or cello

See this handy video for assistance on changing strings the proper way.  Below the video is an additional resource on the tonal qualities of string brands.

Tonal Qualities of String Brands

Each brand of string for violin, viola, and cello has inherent qualities that make it different from another string.  Factors such as materials, method of manufacture, and tension all have something to do with the tone produced by a string.  Also, strings can often sound quite different on various instruments, due to the unique tonal qualities of each instrument.  Below is a rating of popular string brands from brightest to warmest and has been determined through the input of various string players and professionals.  When looking for the best strings for your instrument, you may want to use this guide if you are looking for a particular tone and don´t know which strings are best for such a purpose.

Violin

Infeld Blue

bright

Evah Pirazzi

Helicore

Dominant

Tonica

Infeld Red

Pro Arte

Zyex

Eudoxa/Oliv

warm

Viola

Spirocore

bright

Dominant

 

Tonica

Prim

Helicore

Pro Arte

Jargar

Larsen

Eudoxa

warm

Cello

Spirocore tungsten

bright

Permanent

 

Helicore

Spirocore chromesteel

Belcanto gold

Chromcor Plus

Spirocore silver

Chromcor

Jargar

Larsen soloist

Larsen

warm