Strings review...!
Updated: May 17, 2021
Over the past few weeks, I noticed that my cello was not responding quite as fast as usual - this meant it was time to buy some new strings!
Cello strings usually last about 2 years. After this, they start to lose their resonance, become slower to speak and generally just lose a bit of sparkle.
I have played on the Standard range by Larsen for several years. But now I was looking for a warmer sound in the upper registers and a more focussed sound at the lower end.
I had read many reviews and articles, and consulted Larsen's "Sound Compass" chart, and decided on Soloists for the top two strings and Magnacores for the bottom two.
And I can say that I am so pleased with my decision!
The Soloist strings are so warm, rounded and resonant. The overtones ring on forever and it sounds like I am playing in a cathedral all the time!
The Magnacores provide a concentration and focus of sound which really helps to keep bass lines clear and concise - very helpful in ensembles!
Despite the strings coming from different ranges within the Larsen output, and their basic sound being very different; all four strings are easy to manipulate in terms of colour which allows me to create a smooth transition whilst also being able to make the most of the different qualities at each end of the instrument - proving particularly helpful in string quartet playing!
The Soloist string needed no playing in whatsoever. The Magnacores have taken a bit more time, with the G string being the last to settle, however I am looking forward to being able to consolidate the playing in process next week during our rehearsals for the next UGSO project.