I've got a quarter size Kay that I love to play for jazz and such, but the spirocores (or at least, I assume that's what they are, red silk wrappings on the end and they have that feel and scratchy arco sound) are getting a bit old, and I wanted to experiment with some different setups.
Does anyone happen to know of any manufacturers besides Thomastik and D'Addario that are making 1/4 scale strings? If not, has anyone happened to have acquired any experience with the D'addario's? I don't bow on it much except for practice purposes, but I'm thinking perhaps the higher tension from heliocores will give it a bit more authority on the E and A strings.
You can get Pirastro Chromcors in 1/4 size.
Also Pirastro Obligatos.
Maybe some Super-Sensitives too, but I suggest you avoid the Red Labels and Stellars.
They're cheap solid-steel core strings.
You have the Innovation Honeys in 1/4 size. (set 9014H4)
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Do you have any experience with either of those on a 1/4 size? I've always heard of the obligatos being very low tension, and I can't imagine I'd get much out of the E or A with them, if they roll much on a 3/4.
Also, any suggestions where I can find either of those sets online for a decent price? Lemur doesn't have them listed, and I didn't see much info on the Pirastro website.
I don't have a 1/4 size bass, so I never tried them.
You can get these sets from Quinn Violins, although they're most probably not stocked.
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I was actually in Quinn Violins this weekend looking for a D string for my 1/4 Engelhardt (same as a Kay). I bought an Obligato D, which Chris Quinn was surprised to have in stock. He had the rest of a set, but I've got the D. You might get lucky though. Anyway, I don't think they're particularly low tension, but I'm no expert on upright strings . . .
Corelli's versatile and articulate strings are easy on the hands (it's one reason they're my favorite!) and bow very well. These strings designed specifically for 1/4 size instruments.
$97.00
You might get lucky though. Anyway, I don't think they're particularly low tension, but I'm no expert on upright strings . . .
