Comparing Obligato, Prim, Pro Arte Violin Strings (same violin)

Comparison of 3 brands of strings on the same violin; same room, microphone, levels, etc.
Prices: Prim--$36; Pro Arte--$34; Obligato--$90
Durability: Prim lasted 6 months and still going strong; Pro Arte lasted 4 months before sounding dead (approx 120 hours of playing) Obligato lasted 5 months (approx. 150 hours of playing) before sounding dead
G String: You tell me!
D String: You tell me!
A String: You tell me!
E String: You tell me!
Listen for richness of overtones, fullness of sound, volume
Please overlook my personal mistakes!
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[@ralextv]

I really liked Obligato and Pro Arte, there is something with the Prim strings i don't like, but they sound very good, a great job you did with the comparation, thanks

[@RedDesertViolin]

Yep. The Prims sounded "thin". Thanks for watching!

[@bonenfant96]

To think that I wanted to try the Obligato. The pro Arte sound ( to my ear ) better.

[@darianburkhart752]

Yes, from what I have gathered from reviews and this video, Obligato are less edgy, darker, and rounder. If you wanted more punch and edge, you'd go with ProArte.

[@goodcyrus]

She is playing the closest to the camera and hence sounding the loudest with pro-arte and that can be deceptive to a lot of people.

[@seancurran6727]

It was, on this violin. The funny thing is, it's going to be different on every violin. Which is why these comparison tests are only so useful.

[@jimbelle3087]

That's dependent upon your instrument and what strings that works best with your violin.

[@cfrost87]

​@@goodcyrusthe camera wasn't picking up the sound. Her mic was. She tried to be the same distance from the mic with all three sets of strings. The camera angle might have changed a bit, but that really wouldn't have made much of a difference in sound.

[@janicebranley9380]

Thank you so much for your effort to show these stings in a true light. I've been on a quest for some time after years of safely using dominants but never being truly happy with the e, i followed a fiddlerman video supporting zyex strings over obligato, and after a few months opted to go for obligato and am blown away by the leap in quality. I went for a thomastik infield o1 gold e and it blends blissfully with the obligato set. The work you have put in is breathtaking, to break in stings and play in such a full range, it will be of such value to many people worldwide. This is a mission that only fiddle players will truly understand.........

[@RedDesertViolin]

Thanks Janice.....yes it was a ton of work and details......but I'm working on another video with other brands of strings because the results of this last video were shocking to me. ANYWAY, wow, I"ll try the Infeld gold E, thanks for that info!

[@bnmuzic1]

Thank you for all your work! Obligato ... no doubt are rich sounding..

[@1cleandude]

Thank you Laura for your hard effort; very appreciated!! For me it was the Obligato set; definitely not the Prim! Thanks again

[@barbaracunningham2929]

because of all of the work you have done in this video I was able to hear which strings I liked and I just put D'darrio Pro Arte on and I can't wait until the break in period is done.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Yes, the outcome was a shock to me. I am working on another comparison with Dominant, Helicore, and ....dang it I forgot the other one.....but that iwll be ready in a few more months.

[@pascalegillet3818]

Yay! Obligato for me! the others sound very tinny. Lucky me, I've just ordered a set of Obligato. Thank you for doing this. It's very helpful.

[@bronchial1]

Thanx for taking all that time to do this challenging vid clip! Have never used either of these string sets but sounds great. The Pro Arte does sound more resonant to these amateur ears. I use Pirastro tonica med. and on the next change I am going to try out Pirastro chromcor to see if it changes my fiddle tone a bit or not..so many variables and I am way down of the skills yet so telling the difference will be a cool challenge!😉

[@RedDesertViolin]

Yes, it's hard to separate the skill of the player from the quality of the strings. I recommend that you play SIMPLE STUFF....because you don't really need to hear fast mumbo jumbo to hear the string quality......just play nice full bow strokes and you will hear the difference.

[@keonsagara7313]

This is some serious dedication! Props to you.

[@lindapickering4128]

I think I liked the Pro Arte set the best. Thanks so much, Lora!

[@RedDesertViolin]

I did too.....it was shocking.....because under my ear the Prims sounded so nice.

[@CharulathaRamanujam]

I am a regular viewer of your videos and a fan of western classical music even though I understand very little . Thank you for your response, dear. You are doing a wonderful job .

[@tehminagoskar2043]

I love your playing! This is such a generous video. Thank you so much. I’ve wanted a sense of the Pro Arte before trying on my old fiddle which I feel needs softer low tension strings (not gut).

[@RedDesertViolin]

I would recommend either Pro Arte, or Infeld REDS. The Reds are designed for warmth.

[@crystalrock18]

A trick I learned from some fellow musicians to preserve the longevity of the strings is use fine grade steel wool. Use that to wipe down all the excess crud build up and rosin build up. If you need a little extra to get that rosin off, use a little gun oil (clp break free) works pretty good. Then I wipe the string off with clean rags I have and then put them back on. As far as strings go I'm a helicore guy and always will be. If I had to get something different I like those pro-arte strings you tired out. D'adddario's aluminum wound E string is by the best e string there is. I also don't play classical I play country and blue grass so it's really personal opinion. All in all great video.

[@cptvanier]

Thanks for this great comparison! I like the Pro Arte, then the Prims. I have been running Prims for some time myself. I'm dying to hear what you like best.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Hey J, how you been? Sorry I lost your comment....it's been 3 months! I agree with you.....Pro Arte was #1. But I thought the Prims sounded thin, so I liked the Obligatos 2nd. (under my ear, I loved the Prims the BEST.....but not after watching this video!!!) HOpe you are well.....

[@DKfir-re5ec]

Red Desert Violin Hi friends. I have Guarnery Lord Wilton 1742 violin. I ubderstand it is on the dark side, maybe,I'm mistake. but anyone can tell me please what recommended to me. 1. Pirastro Obligato 2. D'adario Pro Arte 3. Pirastro Eudoxa 4. Dogal Capriccio (orchestra or soloist version). Thanks.

[@goodcyrus]

I think what matters most is what it sounded up close. So thank you for sharing your opinion of Prims.

[@CharulathaRamanujam]

Thanks for the comparison.did you pirastro chromcor ?

[@FoursideAssetManagement]

prim were my favorite from the video - especially the mozart. I enjoyed your playing a lot, thanks for uploading!

[@RedDesertViolin]

The Prims are extremely easy to play on. Thanks for watching! Wanna do me a favore, pretty please? Visit this link, and vote for Red Desert Violin. I"m a finalist in a contest and I need EVERY vote I can get! Please vote daily until February 8! THANK YOU! www.aweber.com/bigimpact.htm

[@LoiteringReaper]

The Pro Arte strings sound like a singer who has amazing breathe control over their vocals on prolonged notes.

[@loralynstaples5483]

That is a very interesting comparison!

[@popitoto]

But now with the Pirazzi Gold it worth to pay a little bit more,they have much more color..I think..with g silver or gold(This is quite expensive).the silver is not less good and cheaper..

[@kaunas888]

The Prim sounds very bright (maybe too much in my opinion) and the Obligato is very mellow and soulful.

[@RedDesertViolin]

I agree. Under my ear, I LOVED the Prims....but after hearing the video I was like.....eeeewwe.

[@LadyJoolree]

Wow, thanks for that commitment! I think I can see why the Prim was a contender, they're pretty good. Overall it's the Pro Arte for me; I like the clarity of the upper strings, you get a nice resonance overall, and the lower strings sound clear but fairly rich. I wonder if the Obligato would be better for 'hall' playing though, something about the projection caught my attention. Personally I use Zyex also by D'Addario - they're a great synthetic with lovely clarity and an amazing warmth and resonance for my brains not brawn violin. They break in quickly too and are blessedly economic! But it really does depend on the violin, mine gets really touchy with tuning on gut cores like Pirastro Eudoxa (a nightmare for me in the UK climate, especially as I frequently move between venues as a teacher), but seems to sound shrill and lack warmth with Corellis. I love your playing btw - practice or no practice!!

[@RedDesertViolin]

+LadyJoolree Thanks for the input. I will have to try Zyex.....Michael Cleveland uses them. (he's one of my fiddle heroes)

[@DaddarioOrchestral]

+LadyJoolree Thanks so much for your kind words about our strings!

[@Jeremy-yr8yg]

The Pro Arte' sound the best by quite a lot to my ear. I also like the Pro Arte' E string myself.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Good feedback. I loved the ProArte's too!

[@artemi-music]

Amazing review, thanks so much! 😊

[@tullochgorum6323]

Late to the party, but if you ever do this again please start with a neutral string like the Dominant or the Tonica so we can hear the true sound of the violin as a baseline to compare from.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Great idea. Yes, I have hopes of doing it again. Next time, I will be even more scientific.

[@tullochgorum6323]

@@RedDesertViolin Props for taking the trouble to play in the strings before you review them. Most KZbin comparison reviews just play the strings brand new, which can be highly misleading.

[@wolf-zl8xi]

thank you so much! I think I like obligato strings and the pro arte the best however prim isnt bad. thanks agian for doing all that for us.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Working on another with different strings. It will probably be 1 year in the making.....stay tuned! Thanks for watching!

[@Native_love]

Best comparison video on YT! Good job!

[@RedDesertViolin]

Thank you! Hoping to do another comparison soon. This time, I won't wait so long between ssets of strings. I'll just do like 1 week between sets. It's expensive, but I think it's important to do comparisons.

[@Jesuswinsbirdofmichigan]

@@RedDesertViolin 💛5½ since producing this; and you're so considerate as to still reply to comments.

[@luvhambo]

Outstanding, Lora. My goodness, I've never seen anyone with your commitment to students. The strings (no idea what brand) that came with my used fiddle finally died, and I went for Dominants, the old standby. However, the G sounds almost dead (tired fog horn sound), and the d is quite dull and indistinct. Must be the difference in fiddles. I think I'll try Pro Arte for the G and D. I've liked Eva Pirazzi for previous fiddles, but they are a bit pricey for a "just wondering" use. Thanks again.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Hey You! You'll love the Pro Arte. If you DON'T love them, record your fiddle and listen.....it is deceptive under the ear. I was shocked when I listened to this video....I did not expect the ProArte to be my fave. Soon, I'll be doing a comparison of Helicore, Dominant, and probably Warshals.....stay tuned!

[@luvhambo]

I think I will. I can't stand my foghorn G and ambiguous D much longer :). Thanks again.

[@janesvensson2747]

Pro Arte is the best because they are more powerful and warm and not so “thin” in the sound. Thanks for the lot of work you did.😃

[@RedDesertViolin]

My pleasure! I can't wait to do the next comparison!

[@carywatmore]

To my ears the Pro Arte sounded best. Surprisingly my favourite strings, Obligatos came in second. The prims I am not sure about - sometimes they sounded good but at other times behind the pro arte and the Obligatos.

[@KCPraisesHim]

Thank you for your time and effort to produce this video. 👏 I started with Violino, went to Dominants with Gold label E, but ended up preferring Obligatos, but still fussing with an E string..... I recently had a sound post set and the gentleman mentioned Larsen il Cannone Medium or Solo. I've only found a couple videos on the medium's, they both sound quite nice but the price is steep.... Thanks sgain! Take care and Carry On 🎻

[@RedDesertViolin]

Thanks for this valuable input, Kevin. I recently tried Larsen Tzigane strings for the first time.....and in my opinion, ANY strings by Larsen are worth the money. They are excellent strings and have a great reputation. The only quesiton is: how durable are the strings? I'm willing to pay alot for strings if they last more than 3 months. I'll do a video soon taking durability into the equation.

[@KCPraisesHim]

@@RedDesertViolin Thanks

[@liquidfire5974]

Thank you for the time you put in in this video, I think I would have ordered the obligato because I have a dark warm violin and they would match good.

[@RedDesertViolin]

You won't be disappointed. they are good strings. Most recently, I put a set of INFELD REDS on my violin, because I always want more warmth and darker....and I LOVE THEM!!!! Put those on your list to try next!

[@liquidfire5974]

Thanks I will for sure! The obligato strings have arrived two weeks ago I'm very satisfied with them.

[@HeatherStamps1]

Thank you. This is an informative video.

[@mccypr]

Thanks much!! I’d go with the Obligatos. The Pro Arte’s have a weird sounding “D” string.

[@RedDesertViolin]

I appreciate your feedback! Stay tuned.....the next comparison will include Evah Pirazzi and Larsens.

[@magiNING]

The diff between Obligato and Pro arte in sound quality is measurable. Since the Prim outlasted the Obligatos by only a month, I'd say theObligatos have my vote. Prim didn't seem to have the responsivity or projection. But the best choice for the money would be the Pro arte. Excellent video and thank you for putting in the time. PS - Some insight into the violin you're using may be useful. Thanks again.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Hi Wood s. Thanks for your insight and suggestion. The violin in this video is a 1999 Cremona violin made by Alexandra Pedota. It is loud, bright, and responsive. My challenge has always been to tame the brightness and boost the "bass" or darken the tone a little. I keep trying to do another compare video....with different strings, but I keep screwing up the data. (meaning I accidentally change the camera settings, or other hair-brain mistakes. It is HARD to maintain scientific integrity!)

[@Dldmny]

It was difficult for me to discern the difference except on the E string. I am no expert and have tried several different strings on my fiddle. When I play I have an expectation of what I want to hear in terms of my ear and the physical contact with the instrument. That said the E strings probably vary to the greatest degree to me.

[@chrisebbesen5798]

For some reason I like the fullness of the D Adario Pro Arte, the Prim are too middle eastern for my ears. Thank you for this string comparison it was well worth hearing you play. I WILL XONSIDER THE. PRO ARTE, AFTER I TRY INFELD RED. I AM CURRENTLY ON EVA PIRAZZI GREENS, ENTIRE SET, AND I LOVE THEM. THEY ARE THE MOST HONEST STRING IVE EVER FOUND FOR VIOLIN. THEYVE BEEN ON ABOUT 7 DAYS NOW, YESTERDAY I PLAYED OVER THE RIVER AND OLD MCDONALD, THE TONE WAS FULL AND ORCHESTAL AND INTERESTING. NOTHING DULL ABOUT HOW THEY SOUNDED. I HAVE A SET OF PRELUDE BY D ADARIO ON MY PRACTICE INSTRENT, THEY HAVE ALWAYS BEEN RELIABLE AND LONG LASTING. THE TONE HOWVER IS METALIC AND GARISH BECAUSE OF FLATWOUND METAL. IF I GET IN A PINCH AND CANT GET EVAS, ILL TRY INFELD RED, THEN PRO ARTE. BLESS YOU FOR YOUR TOIL IN THIS COMPARISON.😅😅😅

[@RedDesertViolin]

Your ears are very astute. I have come to feel the same way about the PRELUDES. (of course, they are very very inexpensive, so no surprise there. Good affordable string....but not professional grade) I am in LOVE with TZIGANE strings. Maybe I'll do a comparison of Tzigane versus the Pirazzi Greens. I've never heard a string described as "honest", but I like that adjective! LOL

[@JSWilliamssr]

I am really liking the Pro Arte.

[@loralynstaples5483]

Yes! Me too! And they are very durable. a win win!

[@bestfiddle]

Nothing better then Prim strings on the right fiddle, there wonderful on dark deep toned violins and in the 30 dollar range and seem to last forever , I started using them when I started going to fiddle contest and noticed most of the players were using them for the contest ,they sounded very clean and clear and the double stops had a great blend to them and also they respond super fast when playing fast fiddle tunes and one other thing great about them is they cross tune without breaking ,which happens a lot with other brands especially with the A tuning like A E A C# ,old-time players love them for that since they use a lot of cross tunings ,there is a bit of a break in period but only a few days for them to mellow out a bit since they are on the bright side and sure would not recommend for them for over bright fiddles , I have tried a lot of string brands for fiddling and after giving some of those pricey strings a try have always gone back to Prim , liked the sound of Helicores but even those are now over $50 a set and last no wear near what Prim does and now those $150 string sets that have very little life to them before they go dead are no way worth the price in my opinion ,maybe great if your a sponsored player and can replace them on a regular time schedule ,but for and my dark deep fiddles its Prim for sure.

[@RedDesertViolin]

That is an amazing endorsement of Prims. Thank you for the insight, it was very valuable. See you around!

[@Zxouf873]

Love loooove your dedication ♥️

[@loralynstaples5483]

Thanks Ruba, I appreciate your comment!

[@popitoto]

For obligato I dont like the g string,is stiff and hard to play..unless if you have so good violin!

[@JoelMFlor]

Great video! I've preferred the Obligato! Tried Pro-Arte strings once on a old violin, very easy to play and wit a quick response. The G and D strings sounded great, very dark, the A and E were more or less. On the same violin Dominant sounded terrible but later I've founded the perfect macth with evah pirazzi. Any way I advise it as a good option to students.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Thanks, Joel. I'll have to try the Pirazzi!

[@fredgebhardt8582]

Thank you. That was very helpful.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TheQwuilleran]

thank you for your dedication to science!

[@RedDesertViolin]

Well.....I do my best!

[@goodcyrus]

Thank you for all the great videos dear. I'd say the most important dimension of music is the sound VOLUME and most people from novice to world class are less impressed by a music or an instrument that makes little sound. You are playing the closest to the camera and hence sounding the loudest with pro-arte and that can be deceptive to a lot of people. It makes it sound a lot more powerful and impressive. Just my 2 cents!

[@RedDesertFiddle]

I assure you...I stand in the SAME spot to film ALL my stuff. Only the zoom on the camera changes, because I am always working on numerous projects. And my microphone is not impacted by the zoom feature. I agree, something seems like it was changed.....but I was really careful to keep the conditions the same. (but, I"m human, and I might have hit a button....it bugs me, and I want to do another test, but it's very time consuming! Some day....I'll have a re-match between these strings!)

[@goodcyrus]

Thank you so much for the response! The scientist in me says the strings alone cannot count for such difference in volume. The volume difference is definitely there in the videos and I think it affects people's impression. Thanks to your comment stating you liked the Prim under your ear + its longevity you noted, I ordered some Prim yesterday.

[@francismeador8155]

I like the Obligatos which I have been playing for a long time. Every now and then I will put on a. set of Pirastro Passionne (sometimes the Passionne Solos). Really like them but expensive and their lifespan is shorter. Thanks for the comparison. I will try the Infield Reds sometime.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Francis, I have to try the Passionne. I think I"ll include them in my next big string comparison.

[@vio3667]

Obligato much better but it has long break-in time... Loud, so soft and clear on high positions. I love pirastro oliv rosin on it.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Love your feedback. Thanks.

[@roughout]

I have a couple sets of unused Pro Arte and have used up a few sets. I have to buy two extra A strings for each set because I wear them out, the winding comes apart under my left hand. Several of the old fiddlers around me recommended Prim because they were cheaper and didn't wear out like that. I switched to Prim and have been very happy for many years. They sound good and last very good. No wearing off the winding because they aren't wound. They are steel, I think stainless steel. The Prims last more years than the Pro Arte do months and hold their sound quality, for fiddle music.

[@loralynstaples5483]

Prims are really great fiddle strings. For classical, I'm not a fan. Hey, here's a pro tip: I bet your windings are being frayed by the velcro retaining strap in your case. (I have a video about this) if you put a flannel cloth over your fingerboard before velcroing the violin in place, I bet your A strings will last 5x's longer. (but yes, NOTHING can destroy the steel Prims!)

[@ivoadams]

Good evening, I love your review and classes. Would you like to know what microphone you use to pick up the sound? My violin is an amati, I have not yet had the opportunity to test the obligato, but listening to the sound I found my cool, I like a sound well and full bodied.

[@RedDesertViolin]

I used a Shure Shotgun condenser mic on a boom stand.

[@bnmuzic1]

Is your violin on the dark side or on the bright side by nature?

[@RedDesertViolin]

The violin in this video is very bright and powerful. I always try to find ways of softening and darkening it, trying to boost the bass as much as possible.

[@ChrisEbbrsen]

I like the prim for baroque and the obligato for classical. That's just a knee jersey reaction. I found the obligatory softer and fuzzyer.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Yes, the Prims are crisper, but maybe "thin". The Obligatos are definitely fuzzier but richer. So many descriptive terms could be used!

[@DivaDeb1234]

I have a dark old German violin . I put Obligato on and they sound very nice.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Oh, I bet they sound amazing on the old German!

[@DivaDeb1234]

@@RedDesertViolin I think they sound great.

[@dekzan]

Please, why not and why yes for heavy strings ? There are ads saying heavy is the choice for orchestra playing ?

[@RedDesertViolin]

Heavy gauge= louder, powerful, projection, darker sound......but slower response and greater tension on the instrument. Light gauge=brighter sound, but not as powerful. I do not believe heavy gauge is best for orchestra players! It should be determined by the INSTRUMENT......and I would start with MEDIUM....and only change from medium if you have a complaint with a string. THis article is great: www.johnsonstring.com/resources/choosing-strings/strings-gauges-tensions.htm

[@eileenharder2473]

Thanks for your hard work! I have a Guaneri Gliga violin with Dominants on and it is Very Loud and Very Bright. I would like to make it sound deep and darker.... Flirting with putting on Pro Artes or Obligatos.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Eileen, before you try the Pro Arte or Obligato strings, I highly recommend the INFELD REDS. My violin is bright and loud, and I tried the REds for the first time ever.....and I LOVE them. Plus they are durable. I need to do a video comparing them, because I think they are my new favorite (for my violin)

[@eileenharder2473]

@@RedDesertViolin awesome. Now I have to be brave and put them on my violin....😱

[@eileenharder2473]

@@RedDesertViolin i have put the infeld reds on today. The gold E is still very bright but i will wait it out to see if it mellows. I might have to face the fact that my violin can only be altered so much. But i will wait it out first. My violin teacher has an old 1903 Italian violin that sounds awesome and dark. It also cost him $12,000! My violin was made in 2010 but its previous owner only played it for 6 months so I guess it has a newness to it

[@popitoto]

I begin from the last Mozart experts..it sounds better with obligato except of the g which I find stiff..The same on my violin...Is a modern one.What is this violin...?Modern I guess,but is it hand made or a factory one..?In obligato there are two E and A string ..Here which you have?I like the E Gold,it has sweet and brilliant sound.For the A I tried only what is coming with the set..thus aluminium not chromium..(if I am not wrong for the other A..).One last important think,with the obligato I find it more difficult the spiccato,sautille..than with the Thomastic in general..Thas why I use more Thomastic..

[@sandimiller5187]

I'd like to know more about viola string comparisons

[@RedDesertViolin]

Yes, I was surprised to learn that violists have strings that I had never even heard of! So....someone out there....educate us on viola strings!!!

[@johnaustin1825]

So, what do you prefer?

[@RedDesertViolin]

Hey John The contest is between Obligato and Pro Arte. (The Prims were just a little too cutting and harsh on my violin) I love Pro Arte. I could go on a diatribe to justify my logic....or my reasons. But I won't. I just love the Pro Arte. I'd like to do another comparison of strings that are in the same category. Prims are steel core, so they weren't really a good comparison with the other two strings with synthetic cores. I'd like to compare my top 3 favorites: Infeld Reds, Kaplan Amo, Pro Arte, and Corelli Alliance. That would be a battle for the ages! I'm gonna write those down....and the next time I order strings...just go for it!

[@gutbucket260]

Prims are great on a dark sounding fiddle. But may be over the top on bright fiddles. Way to shrill.

[@RedDesertViolin]

I agree.

[@popoaggie]

I have Prims on an Amati copy fiddle. They seem a little to bright for that fiddle which is bright sounding to begin with. I'm going to try Helicore heavy or Zyex sets to see if I can warm that little bugger up. Have you tried either of these D'Addario strings on your violin?

[@jonhh6918]

Wow that Corelli Alliance E string ❤

[@RedDesertViolin]

Right?! I'm glad it's not just me....I LOVE that E string. We should probably buy 100 of them in case they get discontinued...

[@jonhh6918]

@@RedDesertViolin just bought one of each gauge to try on my violin

[@sghosh4223]

The problem is, you do not know how your violin and bow will respond to a string. For example, with Pro Arte G string, when I shifted, the violin sounded like someone with a bad case of cold. Then I used Thomastik Dominant and I really like the sound. I am thinking about trying out a Obligato though. In this video, the Pro Arte sounded loud and the A string sounded harsh. The other 2 sounded more balanced but this is just my feelings. Also, I should mention that the sound depends on the speakers you are using. It may well happen that the sound is different if you were present in her studio.

[@RedDesertViolin]

DEFINITELY. Trying to evalulate sound from a RECORDING, on KZbin, on COMPUTER SPEAKERS.....well, you see it's a far cry from being in person, but you can compare them RELATIVE to each other. Also correct about the strings being different on each violin. SO TRUE. But you can sort of learn the characteristics that you like, and then try them on your own violin. Thanks for the feedback!

[@AshiUnbox10]

Pirastro Tonica Vs Pro arte which is best? I feel like pro arte sound a bit dull sometimes, please correct me as I'm just judging by the video. Thank you!

[@RedDesertViolin]

So, I did not play on Tonica strings. However, if memory serves me correctly, they are a brighter, more strident string than the Pro Arte. So you might hear the "warmth" of the pro arte as DULL, especially if you play them on a violin that is already mellow. (My violin is very bright, and so I always look for strings with warmth and darkness)

[@fyzu.medicine]

Thanks for sharing your incredible talents!!! AMAZING!!!Now this is what I call real-string-comparison!!!what violin did you test it on? Sounds very fine......

[@RedDesertViolin]

Hey V166, sorry for the delay......the violin is a Cremona 1999 by Alexandra Pedota. I recently had some work done on it, soundpost adjustment, fingerboard planing, and bridge adjustment.......so I'm going to do a new video with other brands.....since my violin is now completely different and it won't be a fair comparison now that it's changed.

[@ratherrapid]

oblige seem Tadd higher in quality to other 2. Pro arts very decent to my ear!

[@RedDesertViolin]

Good ears! (you have expensive taste!)

[@M.N.922]

Obligatte full sound very good

[@euca9569]

Those pro arte sound like gut.

[@RedDesertViolin]

I freaking love those strings now.

[@viola_pleasure]

Thank you for your time! II used to play mostly time synthetic strings and I did like Corelli, Pro Arte, Thomastik, but I would like to switch to the stronger ones since my last auditions in Chicago. That concert hall was a monster, plus they put a carpet under the aspirants.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Hector, I have not tried the Evah Pirazzi, but they are supposed to be really powerful, soloistic strings. Maybe give them a shot?

[@viola_pleasure]

Thank you again Ms. Lora. Evah Pirazzi for me in my opinion it is like #Helicore from #D'addario. I'm looking also for a brilliant sound and affordable ones. Yesterday I heard from somebody in youtube that ALPHAYUE strings it is almost like #Vision string from #Thomastik and I think the same as #Ascenté Viola Strings from D'addario. Regards

[@123jozef]

8:45 shred it

[@RedDesertViolin]

Tommy, is this by any chance the video you wanted where I played a bunch of scales? I noticed you commented on this video....so maybe it's the one. It's not a tutorial on scales, but rather just me trying out strings. (obviously)

[@123jozef]

@@RedDesertViolin ~ BUSTED! Yes, it is. That's why I said "you're gonna laugh" ... I was looking in the wrong places. Obviously I also understand that this isn't a tutorial on scales or runs of sequences. At the same time..... even though it's about strings.... I'm all about the scales and the sequences in this video. I did see another a few days ago where you are playing with the pianist that blew me away. I didn't save that either, and now I can't find it. What I liked was that it kept repeating sequences and on KZbin, you can go to "settings" and slow down the playback speed.... I'm sure you already know where I'm going with this. BTW, email sent....from Stringfire1@gmail ~

[@LaidbakZak]

That e string does sound amazing

[@RedDesertViolin]

The Correlli? I'm glad you like it!

[@ryanricks]

interesting video. i'm running dominants right now.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Dominants are stable and consistent. I used them for YEARS. I'm going to include them in the next video comparison. Stay tuned!

[@Jynx215]

My one question is, is the general timbre of your instrument brighter or darker/warmer? I think that's supposed to play a big role in determining which strings are most compatible.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Great question: my violin is naturally bright. So I always seek strings that bring warmth and bass to it.

[@katherinejones8515]

It appears she prefers obligato by her willingness to push it harder. I think the pro art did make an impression. Prim would be good for student starting out.

[@RedDesertViolin]

great observation, Katherine! (you should be a homicide detective!) Indeed, I thought the Obligato were very special strings, some of my favorite violinists use them, and they cost the most. I thought they sounded the best under my ear, but I also thought the Prims sounded awesome under my ear. Boy, was this a learning experience for me!

[@JustyStoky]

I have Pro Artes on my Viola. They have this thick rich sound. The Obligatos would be second.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Good feedback, thanks!

[@johnaustin1825]

For the E string: Pirastro Gold or Olive seem to be the favourite. What do you think?

[@RedDesertViolin]

I honestly have not played an Olive.....I'll have to check that out.

[@MikeKoPhotography]

I am a cello player but I so appreciate you doing this. Out of curiosity which of the three did you like best?

[@RedDesertViolin]

Under my ear, the Primms sounded awesome....but listening to the recording, I think it's no contest that the Pro Arte strings were the best. (for my preference....I desire full-throated sound with great crisp articulation, but also warmth)

[@juliejules7780]

@@RedDesertViolin thanks for the review. I'm glad there are affordable strings. Obligatos are overpriced.

[@rockereb]

@@RedDesertViolin I'm a full time guitar repairman, but i'm shopping for strings for my children and have little experience to draw from, so this is very helpful.. To my ears, sonically they sound relatively similar, but the Primms video has the camera and mic further away from you. So you hear more of the room sound, where the other two seem to be closer to the mic and get a cleaner stronger instrument sound with less room sound. I know there's many other factors over this long time, but my perception is that you visibly seem too enjoy playing the Primms much more than the others. Also, based on what you mentioned about trying them on another instrument, I'd say enjoying the instrument more makes you play better and want to play more often. Should be noted, different strings may not sound the same at home, on stage, or in the studio. Curious, did you buy any of them again after making this video?

[@loralynstaples5483]

@@rockereb hi! To clarify, I use a Rode shotgun condenser mic on a boom stand connected via a cable to my camera. I assure you, although the video looks drastically different, the mic was in the same spot. But I agree....there was something funky suspicious about the Prim test. My favorite out of the 3 is the Pro Arte, hands down. They sound warm but clear, and smooth from string to string . They cost half what Obligatos cost, and last twice as long. I enjoy them under my ear. I think Obligatos are good strings, but they go dead fast. So...its Pro Arte for me. But for high end strings, my favorite is now Tzigane. ($80 per set) pro artes are under $50.

[@loralynstaples5483]

@@rockereb and yes, I have bought pro arte many times and will again.

[@BeccainHawaii]

On your violin I liked the obligato the best, even though it was quiet. I didn't like the pro arte and the prim even less.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Good! THe important thing is that you are learning to listen critically. (or maybe you already know how) Thanks for your input!

[@BeccainHawaii]

@@RedDesertViolin Everytime you played the Pro Arte I cringed, but the sound of the Prim made the Pro Arte sound not so bad.

[@Jynx215]

1. I love your facial expressions when playing :D lol. 2. And more importantly, thanks so much for this video. I'm currently in the midst of trying to find my instrument's "perfect formula", and just ordered a set of Obligatos as I've heard they're good for balancing bright instruments. The way you did your best to eliminate all the variables was helpful and appreciated. P.S. I thought the Pro Arte sounded best on yours! While the Prims didn't seem to sound the best, they honestly weren't bad for steel-core. I tried a set of D'Addario Preludes and hated them. To me, the Obligatos sounded like they could have a really nice tone in there, but maybe weren't the most compatible on your particular instrument. Just my 2c, hearing it secondhand through a YT video obviously isn't as good as in person. Thanks again for the comparison.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Ian, I am a Pro Arte devotee....I love them...they are durable. But when I want to treat myself, I buy Infeld Reds, because they are a shade darker/warmer than the Pro Arte's. but they are cost double, and last half as long.....so....there's that. Let me know if you discover something nice!

[@poitevienphilip]

Hello friend, what violin did you use in this video?

[@RedDesertViolin]

Hi Philip, the violin used was my main violin, which is a Alexandra Pedota, from Cremona, 1999.

[@Firenmage433]

Pro arte are just loud..balanced, but loud. Prim e string is beautiful, rest are too bright and thin.. well, G string is surprisingly deep. Obligatos are dark of course but the most complex, my favorite of the bunch if I had to choose. People here really like loud bland sounding fiddles!

[@RedDesertViolin]

Thanks for your feedback! Sounds like you are a careful listener. Also, there is only so much my microphone and your computer speakers can give us. (but it does give a side-by-side comparison on the same violin)

[@armandohuizar5440]

How do you compare thesebstrings with the tomastik superflexible violin strings

[@loralynstaples5483]

I have never tried thise strings, so I have no personal opinion on those strings.

[@RWolf215]

Hi, I just started to learn to play the violin by myself, with the help of tutorials like yours' (I'm planning to go to a teacher in the summer). I'm an 18yo girl. I just noticed that maybe my hands are too small for a full size violin. The width of my palm is 7cm, the length is 9, my middle finger is 7 cm and my little finger is 5,5 cm. I also noticed that most of people just put down the fingers to play a note, but I have to stretch even my second finger, and basically all my fingers, and reposition them at all note. I've heard of the 7/8 violin size, do you think I should change my violin to that one?

[@RedDesertViolin]

+RWolf215 I definitely think if your hands are super small, then yes, it would be the best outcome for you to switch. With a 7/8 violin, generally, you only get 7/8 of the sound potential, but IT IS WORTH IT to have comfort and natural fit on the violin. I even had one of my webcam students switch to a 3/4 violin after she complained that she couldn't stretch.....I argued with her, and had her scan an outline of her hand to me......and I couldn't believe how small her hands were. Since going to 3/4, her technique has improved remarkably!

[@RWolf215]

+Red Desert Violin Thank you really much for the answer. I think I'm going to switch my violin to a smaller one. But until then, should I practice on my full size one or should I change it immediately?

[@RedDesertViolin]

+RWolf215 Use whatever you have until you can get something smaller.

[@kiboards1830]

Just..... Thank you.

[@RedDesertViolin]

You are most welcome!

[@teckyify]

Came for the strings, stayed for your Mozart 🤔

[@RedDesertViolin]

That's sweet Jackson! Thank you!

[@CharulathaRamanujam]

Hi,thank you for the wonderful comparison. How about pirastro chromcor?have you ever tried that?

[@RedDesertViolin]

No, I have to say, I have never tried those. To me, the name "Chromcor" sounds like a very bright string....so I never even considered it. What are your thoughts on that string?

[@CharulathaRamanujam]

I am a indian classical violin player .and I use chromcor for our playing. It suits very well .I just wanted to listen to your playing and how the tone is with western tuning. Thank you so much for the reply.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Wow, how cool to meet you! Indian classical music is SO COMPLICATED! I have the utmost respect for your musical traditions! Take care!

[@Neo2906]

That`s a nice Video. Thanks for that !!! It`s really hard for a beginner like me to find something good. There are so many strings....and they`re so expensive. But here in this video for my ears the Obligato sound incredible.

[@RedDesertViolin]

Your ears have expensive taste! ;-)

[@Neo2906]

oh yes, hmmm...but it is very often that this what i like is way much to expensive. Damn :-) but i love it when the violin has a bery warm and smooth sound. what do you prefer?

[@nocturnallsnake4228]

well made vid

[@RedDesertViolin]

Thank you!

[@katherinejones8515]

Red Desert Violin Thank you for the efforts. I am making my decision next purchase on your videos.

[@bradawesome8136]

Pro arte sounds warm and a bit low. Prim is too thin. To ma I prefer obligato

[@RedDesertViolin]

The weird thing is: Prims sounded fabulous under my ear!!! I was embarrassed when I heard them on this video! Ack!

[@JosesGarage101]

Hi. What do you think of the Vision Solo titanium?

[@RedDesertViolin]

I have never tried them.....but my violin is SO loud with normal strings, I probably would not want any more projection. But yeah, if you need that boost in sound and projection, they are probably great strings.

[@liamderosa2157]

Did you use the gold or steel obligato e string?

[@RedDesertViolin]

Steel. I find that gold E strings whistle.

[@googlego223]

Obligato,smooth sound

[@M.N.922]

My frends

[@mysteriofox3097]

What a project, you should get a 1000 dollar donation or fund.

[@RedDesertViolin]

I am a glutton for punishment. I just got my bows rehaired and violin worked on....so I plan to do another comparison. I'm thinking Evah Pirazzi, Larsen, and not sure what else. But I'll be even more scientific this time. THANK YOU for your appreciation!

[@mysteriofox3097]

​@@RedDesertViolin Thank you for your work, you're most welcome. And by the way most strings sound same to me- expensive or cheap. But Pro Arte sounded so good that I needed to stop video so I wouldn't run and buy them because of their rich and expressive sound.

[@fernandofavero2436]

Mamma mia!!!!!

[@loralynstaples5483]

Dramatic!

[@waynechurchill7212]

Pro arts run away