Best Violin Strings for Beginners

Picking the right violin can be a daunting task, as not all instruments are created equally. Do you want a performer’s instrument or a full-on concert violin? Is it a plastic model or one that will look great hanging in your home? There's no need to fret, because we have the solution: violin strings. If you need a helping hand with your violin purchase, you‘ve come to the correct place. We search for the best products and research the most interesting products on the market to bring you the honest, informative shopping guides you depend on. If you just want to get to grips with buying violin string sets, our top picks are here. But if you'd like to learn more about violin string choices and what to look for, read on for our full guide.

What are tips for finding the right violin strings?

For the best sound, pair violin strings with a violin bow. The bow adds vibrato and the tone it creates makes a big difference. A violin string set also makes it easier to play in a wide range of keys. For the most dynamic sound possible, use a Bb, G, F, E, D, or A string for the lower strings and a D or B string and an F or E string or a C string on the higher strings.

What should I consider when buying violin strings?

The most important thing to look for when shopping for violins is the material the strings are made of. You should also pay attention to the number of strings, and decide whether you want a nylon string (which is softer) or a wood string. Depending on your preference, you can choose between nylon and metal strings. In addition, consider the following factors when choosing the right violin strings:

Solid or Hollow

The majority of violin string sets are hollow-body sets, which means that each string has a hollow center. This design is more durable than solid-core strings because it doesn’t generate vibrations that can break the instrument. However, hollow violas are heavier than their solid core counterparts, so you‘re better off with a solid body if you have a larger instrument or want to play louder. So, if your instrument is a light classical violin, solid strings might be your best option. Frequency Response: Since each violin string is tuned differently, the response of your strings to each note will vary. Some violins are tuned to sound better at high volumes, whereas others can produce a warm tone for playing in the lower registers. If you choose hollow strings for your viola, it'll be harder for you to achieve the perfect tone, but you might enjoy the lighter sound.

Length

To make sure that your violin can handle the vibrations you will put it through, choose a violin string that's long enough. For instance, a violin that measures 57.5 inches in length can accommodate strings of approximately 60 inches.

How expensive are violin strings?

You can find violin strings in a range of price points. However, you needn’t break the bank to find a quality product. Basic violin string sets start at around $25. At this price, most strings will be of good quality. Some of these may even be a little softer than you‘d find on a high-end instrument. If you want to expand your musical knowledge or if you just want something that will last for a while, this might be the price range for you. You can buy strings of a higher quality, but it will cost more.
From $50 to $100 you will find strings that are softer, of better quality and more durable. The strings at this level are aimed at beginning and intermediate students.
Above $150 are the most expensive violin strings. While you may find higher-quality strings and a more attractive design here, the higher price tag could deter some. Unless you are a professional or an enthusiast looking for the very best, it's best to stick to lower price brackets.

How Do We Chose Our Selection Of Violin Strings?

Brand

Every violin we chose is from a respected brand that has been producing quality musical instruments for generations.

Price

We know that everyone has a different sized wallet, so we try to be realistic about our price range. We‘ve tried to include a variety of prices to appeal to every pocket.

Reviews

You can't please everybody. To ensure that you get the best possible violin for your money, we read and review lots of customer feedback. Of course, our own reviews are biased, but we do want to pass on accurate information.

What Features Should You Look For In Violin Strings?

Before you decide which violin is the perfect fit for you, check out these important key features.

Size

When you're buying violin strings, size is an incredibly important consideration. You need a string that is appropriate for the size of your violin and how you play. The most important thing is that it's a comfortable size for playing.

Weight

The weight of a musical instrument is very important. It s also useful to know the weight for strings, as this tells you how easy it is to bend and break the strings.

Grip

If you find the string tension on your violin too high or too low, this can affect your playing, especially when you are playing fast. Look for a model with a rubberized grip to help you with this.

Tuner

There‛s nothing worse than learning a new piece of music only to realize that your instrument can only play it in G major. If this is a problem for either you or your student, a quality tuner is essential.

Maintenance

Because violin strings are built to last, it needs regular maintenance. Depending on the manufacturer, you might need to take them to the shop to have them cleaned, dried, lubricated and generally maintained.

Style

Some brands have a reputation for being “hotter" than others, which can influence your purchasing decision. However, there's more than one option when it comes to style. More often than not, the style of violin strings will be dictated by the wood and finish. A violin made from maple will not sound the same as one made with rosewood or lacquer. Overall, style should not be a determining factor.

Materials

Most violin strings are made using wood, although some are also toned using metal. Brass violin strings are becoming more popular, particularly because of their warmth and resonance.

The best violin strings for you may not be what you’re looking for, or they may be something you don‘t need. If you think you might be looking to replace your strings, you should know the different types of violins available and what they are made of. Some violin manufacturers make strings and some don't. These strings are manufactured to sound good but not to be played with any authority. Think about how you intend to play your violin and ask yourself where you will be most comfortable. Different violins have different neck and bridge designs, which affect the sound the strings produce. You may want a high-quality set of lower-priced strings that will work well for your Bb and C. However, if you only intend on playing a C in a college orchestra, an entry-level set may suit you just fine. Violins are available in multiple string gauges. Each gauge provides a different sound and may alter the difficulty level of the instrument. The higher the number, the softer the tone. In general, violinis are played on a F# (or higher) instrument, and violins are typically tuned to F.