Technical data
| Core | multi strand perlon |
| Line | Dominant |
| Instrument | Cello |
| Size | 1/2 |
| Gauge | medium |
| Supplied as | Set and single strings |
| Item number | ST-DO147-SET12 |
Description
Dominant cello strings respond quickly, allow precise dynamic control and react immediately to any change in bowing. Their synthetic core is far less sensitive to humidity than gut, and they hold their tuning over long playing periods. As a result they have become reference strings both in the orchestra pit and in solo and chamber music.
The set is made in 4/4, 3/4, 1/2 and 1/4. In the standard 147 set all four strings carry a chrome winding on the synthetic core; for the C string there is also the silver wound 145A. Tension grades range from Soft through Medium to Strong.
Scope of delivery
- Available as a complete set
- Single strings: A string, D string, G string, C string
Sound and physics
The construction of the string (string length, tension, cross section, material properties) keeps its overtones close to the harmonic series; the higher partials lie only fractionally above the exact multiples of the fundamental. In wound strings this is achieved by the composite design of a thin, flexible core with one or more windings of metal ribbon or wire, which puts a lot of mass on the string with little bending stiffness.
A string tuned to the same pitch on the same string length carries proportionally more mass per metre (linear mass density) when it is under higher tension.
Under the bow the travelling kink of the Helmholtz motion (the string sticks to the bow hair and slips back) stays sharp on the flexible string, and the bridge receives a sawtooth force that contains every overtone of the fundamental.
A low C string typically produces more than 40 clearly contributing harmonics.
When the fundamental of a string meets a strongly coupled body resonance, a wolf tone can appear, a note that stutters and jumps. A small weight between bridge and tailpiece on the string concerned damps and shifts this resonance; we carry wolf eliminators of 7 g and 9 g for this.
In the 147 set all four strings, the A string 142, D string 143, G string 144 and C string 145, carry a chrome winding and a ball end on the synthetic core. The set is made in 4/4, 3/4, 1/2 and 1/4. Each size is a string design of its own, matched to its string length; the maker publishes tension figures only for the 4/4 set.
The polyamide synthetic core (1,130 to 1,150 kg/m³, modulus of elasticity as a measure of material stiffness 2,500 to 3,500 MPa) reacts far less to humidity than gut and settles in faster than gut, though not as fast as steel.
Our experience
On the 4/4 set, Dominant is for us the light, open way to string a cello: warm, round and with a bell-like tone. That all four strings share the same construction is something we hear there across all positions: the set sounds of a piece.
When another model suits you better
For the teaching years we also recommend Alphayue, for us the friendliest companion in that time, made even down to 1/8.
Frequently asked questions
Why are the lower strings wound?
The winding adds mass to the string without making it stiff. On the same string length a low note at similar tension needs a much higher linear mass density, and the metal of the winding supplies it.
How much does tension change when I tune higher?
From 440 Hz to 442 Hz, as many orchestras tune today, tension rises by about 0.9 per cent, and to 445 Hz by about 2.3 per cent.
What are the frequencies of the cello's open strings?
At A = 440 Hz and pure fifths they are about 65.2 Hz (C), 97.8 Hz (G), 146.7 Hz (D) and 220 Hz (A).
Where do I put the wolf eliminator?
Between bridge and tailpiece on the string where the wolf appears. Its weight shifts and damps the resonance of the system made of string, bridge and body.
In which sizes is Dominant made for cello?
In 4/4, 3/4, 1/2 and 1/4.
These texts hold decades of experience and a great deal of heart. They are protected by copyright, C.A. Götz jr. GmbH. Please ask us before any use. Thank you for your appreciation.
