Which strings are better and why?? Would it make a big difference if I bought a violin with Thomastik Dominant or Papay stings?? Which set of strings should I look for when buying my violin?? And if one is better will it make a BIG differnce if I get the better one from the other one?? lol. sorry if you don`t understand me.

Kristin,

Papay strings as supplied on the Gems 2 are vile. The Gems 1 strings are better. The strings on the Genial is acceptable for a student violin. My very strong advice would be to go for dominants. You can fit those yourself after purchase though, it isn`t at all difficult. Also get four adjusters (either from Cristian or get them yourself): beginners do not find tuning without adjusters at all easy.

Liz

thanks. i was going to get a gems 1 but my dad won`t buy it for me maybe my mom will but I don`t tune my violin anyways lol. i suck at trying even with fine tuners lol

Hi Kristin,

I have Dominant strings with 4 fine tuners on my three fiddles and they play fine. I`m sure if you go for, or fit those, they`ll be good for you.

I have a set of D`Addario Heliocore strings ready to fit when another set is worn out, but that could be months away. These are very popular with Irish fiddle players.

Dominants are a safe option on most violins, they may not give you the best possible tone (you really need to play around to find out ehat works) but they`ll be 80% there.

I agree with you, the world of strings is a confusing one, and with a full set costing between £6.50 and £55.00 it`s not something you want to spend a lot of money trying out.