D'ADDARIO SET OF STRINGS FOR PRELUDE VIOLA "EXTRA-SHORT SCALE" MEDIUM TENSION
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What you need to know
What you need to know
- Designed for "Extra-Short Scale" Violas : suitable for instruments with a maximum total length of 30.5 cm, featuring a 305 mm (12") neck length.
- Medium Tension : ideal balance between playing comfort, stability, and projection, designed to suit the majority of violists.
- Pure Steel Core : excellent bow response, good tuning stability, and reliable performance against temperature and humidity variations.
- Individually Sealed Packaging : enhanced protection against corrosion-causing elements, for optimized lifespan.
Manufacturer Information
D'addario And Co
https://www.daddario.com
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D'Addario Europe Ltd
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Prelude: A Pedagogical Reference in the D'Addario Range
Within the D'Addario range, Prelude is a reliable choice for learning: these strings have been developed to offer a warm tone and great consistency in daily use, while remaining accessible. Their design emphasizes reliability and longevity, which is why they are often recommended by teachers to support the first years of practice with motivating sound results.
Intended Use and Target Musician
This set is primarily aimed at beginner and intermediate violists playing on an "Extra-Short Scale" viola. The Medium tension provides a balanced playing feel, highly appreciated for working on intonation, bow control, and attack stability. Ideal for the classical repertoire and study exercises, it is also perfectly suited for ensemble playing (string orchestra, chamber music) where tuning stability and consistent response are essential.
Sound Characteristics
Thanks to their pure steel core, Prelude strings offer a clear response under the bow, with a clean attack and an immediate sense of control. Their tonal signature is described as particularly warm for steel-core student strings, while remaining stable over time. Another advantage: they are minimally sensitive to temperature and humidity changes, which helps maintain a more consistent instrument from day to day, especially in school settings or during travel.
Recommended Compatible Accessories
Technical specifications
| Format | 1/2 | Category | Alto |
| Tension | Medium | Nbr of strings | 4 |
| Type of cord attachment | Ball end | ||
| Type | string set for "Extra-Short Scale" viola | Response | excellent bow response |
| Compatibility | violas with a total length of 30.5 cm or less | Tonal character | extremely warm sound (for steel-core student strings) |
| Compatible neck length | 305 mm (12") | Packaging | individually sealed pouches for corrosion protection |
| Structure | pure steel core | Manufacturing | designed and made in the USA |
| Behavior | insensitive to temperature and humidity variations | Quality control | subjected to rigorous quality checks |
Questions frequently asked
Are these strings compatible with a 1/2 size viola?
This set is designed for a 1/2 size viola, with a fingerboard length compatible at 305 mm (12 inches). All four strings have ball-end attachments.
What is the tension of the D'Addario Prelude Extra-Short Scale set?
Medium tension offers a balanced playing feel, suitable for practicing intonation and bow control.
What sound do these steel core viola strings produce?
The pure steel core provides a clear attack and a crisp response under the bow. The tone is described as warm for study strings with a steel core.
Are Prelude strings resistant to humidity changes?
These strings are minimally affected by temperature and humidity variations. This stability helps maintain a more consistent response when traveling or in school settings.
For which violists is this set intended?
This model is aimed at beginner and intermediate violists playing on an Extra-Short Scale viola. It is designed for classical repertoire, studies, and ensemble practice. Each string is packaged individually in a moisture-resistant pouch to prevent corrosion.



