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Difference between Obligato high A Solo / 5th tuning A

Discussion in 'Strings [DB]' started by domgi, Dec 28, 2014.

  1. Dec 28, 2014 #1
    domgi

    domgi

    Dec 30, 2009
    Montreal Qc
    Is there anyone experienced with differences between a solo A (tone up) and a fifth tuning first string?
    I want to set up my bass for viennese tuning and wonder what the difference is in gage, tension and tone...
    Pirastro Obligatos have a different item number between them when ordering...
    Also I wonder what would be the best match for that upper string with my gut Olives, since they only make the high C (same with Eudoxas)!

    Thanks for your advice,

    Dominic Girard
    modern and period bass player
     
  2. Dec 28, 2014 #2
    Sam Dingle

    Sam Dingle Supporting Member

    Aug 16, 2011
    Nashville TN
    I know nothing about Viennese tuning but I believe the guy with the London symphony orchestra uses Eudoxa solo strings and gets that tuning. Might want to check it out.
     
    domgi likes this.
  3. Dec 29, 2014 #3
    domgi

    domgi

    Dec 30, 2009
    Montreal Qc
    Thanks for your advice... You mean Rinat Ibragimov? Yeah he plays on Eudoxas, but not "solos" since they don't make them! Viennese tuning is FADF#A so you basically only need the top string to be a "solo" one, or a top fifth tuning A...
     
  4. Dec 29, 2014 #4
    Mark Gollihur

    Mark Gollihur Supporting Member Commercial User

    Jul 19, 2000
    Mullica Hill, NJ
    Owner/President, Gollihur Music LLC
    I'd be very surprised if there is a difference. They have the same exact gauge (about .059 on my caliper -- no, I'm not guessing, I stock both strings and just pulled them to check) and they look identical in construction.

    The two strings have different manufacturer stock numbers (441190 for the 5ths tuning, 441100 for the Solo) and different pegbox silk (pale blue on the solo, and half light royal blue/half black on the 5ths). But I'd lay a fair wager that for practical purposes the strings are the same.
     
  5. Dec 29, 2014 #5
    domgi

    domgi

    Dec 30, 2009
    Montreal Qc
    Thank you SO MUCH for your reply!
    Now for performance issues
    Since tuning up all strings by a semitone to reach a key of Eb while playing in D is not reccomended, what do you suggest:
    -Find separate parts for the whole orchestra in D (or have someone do it)... but can't be with a period ensemble in 415!
    -Make everyone tune in 415 if not playing with natural horns (in order to read Eb but sound in D)
    -tune myself up in Eb (Bb/Eb/G/Bb) with an Olive high C tuned down a whole tone, but what about 3-4th strings?
     
  6. Dec 30, 2014 #6
    paulunger

    paulunger Supporting Member

    Sep 1, 2002
    Fort Worth, Texas
    I think the Obligatory Solo A is higher in tension than the 5ths tuning counterpart. If you like Eudoxa strings you may contact Pirastro and ask them if they will make you a set. They don't seem to have a problem custom making gut strings.
    You could also talk to Gerold Genssler (Sonores Strings), he will make you a custom set of whatever tuning you like.
     
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