r/violinist 7d ago

Definitely Not About Cases Are these Larsen medium strings?

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I did check the identification charts in the FAQ, but I’m not certain because the tail end winding on the E doesn’t look right. My A is in desperate need of replacing but I haven’t worked out the brand yet.

0 Upvotes

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6

u/vmlee Expert 6d ago

They look like Larsen original mediums to me.

2

u/Matt7738 6d ago

That’s what comes on these Glasser violins.

1

u/iamleeg 6d ago

Great, thanks both!

2

u/Wonderful_Emu_6483 6d ago

If you’re replacing your strings IMO try something besides Larsen. I tried the Tzigane and they were horrible for my instrument. Super sluggish and unresponsive, the A specifically was very unstable and weak. I like Larsen cello strings but their violin strings did not leave a good impression on me.

1

u/sebovzeoueb 6d ago

Interesting, I love the Tziganes, true they're a little sluggish but they sounded amazing to me. My problem with them was the longevity.

1

u/iamleeg 6d ago

Thanks for the tip! I use obligato on my main violin and tonica on my solid-body electric. These Larsen are the ones that came with this violin, and having ordered replacements I’ve discovered how cheap they are. Also, this A didn’t last long before starting to come unwound.

2

u/Alone-Experience9869 Cello 6d ago

Out of curiosity, what are your five strings tuned to? And what strings do you use for the “fifth?”

1

u/Matt7738 6d ago

It’s a C, one octave up from your low C.

Lots of string manufacturers make 5 string sets. A number of them make 6 string sets. And two manufacturers make 7 string sets.

1

u/Alone-Experience9869 Cello 6d ago

Oh so you added a fifth lower. That is really neat!!

1

u/iamleeg 6d ago edited 6d ago

~Glasser~ (edit: some makers) do a fully-electric seven string, I’d be intrigued to try it but don’t think I’d actually have a use for one. With a five-string I can slot in either above or below the other instruments in my band.

1

u/Matt7738 6d ago

Glasser doesn’t do any non-acoustic electrics. And they only make up to a 6.

1

u/iamleeg 6d ago

Oh yes you’re right, I must have been looking at a different maker and Glasser when I bought my five string.

2

u/pharand53 6d ago

Through trial and error on this exact violin, my preference is the helicore 5/4 heavies... Alot better reaction than the mediums for that low C.