D’Addario are dedicated to creating strings for musicians of all skill levels, genres, and preferences. They believe every player needs to find the right strings before finding their way on their own musical journey. Find the right strings for you and start playing something beautiful.
The core is the most central part of the string that runs from end to end. Most strings fall into one of four core categories: solid steel, stranded steel, synthetic or gut.
SOLID STEEL CORE strings feature a single steel wire running throughout the entire length of the string. Examples: Prelude (except Double Bass), Kaplan Viola A, Kaplan Cello A/D.
STRANDED STEEL CORE strings have a core made out of thin steel wires braided together in a rope-like formation. Examples: Prelude Double Bass, Helicore, some Kaplan Viola and Cello, Kaplan Double Bass.
SYNTHETIC CORE strings feature a core made from synthetic (manmade) fibres. Examples: Kaplan Violin/Viola Amo and Vivo, Zyex, Pro·Arté.
GUT CORE strings, the oldest known type of string material, are made from the small intestines of sheep and cows.
There are more types of orchestral strings today than ever before. To help navigate the number of different sets available, we’ve created a list of D’Addario recommendations.
On the chart below we’ve organized an array of popular strings in alphabetical order grouped by instrument. The columns on the right provide our recommendations. On the left are the names of the closest comparable sets made by other string companies.
D’Addario offers a comprehensive range of orchestral string instruments, with strings crafted to suit every level of musician from beginner to professional. Violinists can choose from collections that deliver warm, rich tones or fast bow response with consistency and reliability, while violists benefit from strings that combine effortless playability with a magnificent sound, from entry-level Prelude to premium Zyex. Cellists can explore options that provide powerful projection and beautiful nuance, including the trusted Pro-Arté and Helicore lines alongside accessible Prelude sets. For double bass players, D’Addario strings bring a balance of strength and subtlety, with choices ranging from Prelude for students to the highly regarded Helicore for advanced performers. Whatever your instrument, D’Addario orchestral strings are designed to help you achieve your best sound.
Silk Colour Chart
