AQUILA Red bass viol string A


item number: 100198
available shortly

AQUILA Red Series Bass Viol A String (FG Synthetic)

The AQUILA Red Series A string for bass viol combines the warm, resonant character of traditional gut strings with the advantages of modern material technology. Developed as a reliable alternative to natural gut, it is particularly well suited to players seeking a historically informed sound together with excellent tuning stability, good durability, and dependable everyday performance.

The string is made from a plant-based synthetic material and features a red-coated copper winding. The result is a direct, projecting, and well-balanced tone, making it suitable both for historically informed performance and for demanding playing situations under changing climatic conditions.

Key Features

  • Developed as an alternative to natural gut: according to Aquila, its acoustic properties compare well with those of gut strings.
  • Plant-based string core: made from a plant-derived synthetic material based on sugar cane.
  • Red-coated copper winding: robust, durable, and intentionally visually distinct from gut strings.
  • Excellent tuning stability: significantly less sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.
  • Long service life: designed for lasting use and consistent performance.
  • Reduced finger noise: the material supports a pleasant playing feel with less unwanted handling noise.
  • Also suitable for challenging conditions: particularly useful in high humidity, heat, or frequently changing climates.

Why Choose AQUILA Red Series for Bass Viol?

If you are looking for an easier-care, stable, and durable alternative to traditional gut strings, the Red Series offers a highly convincing solution. On the bass viol in particular, players benefit from quick stabilisation after fitting, reliable intonation, and a tonal character that combines warmth, fullness, and clarity.

The Red Series is especially attractive for musicians who perform regularly, play in varying room or climate conditions, or want to reduce the typical challenges of gut strings, such as frequent re-tuning and greater sensitivity.

Sound Character

The AQUILA Red Series bass viol A string delivers a warm, projecting, and clearly focused sound with a good response. The tone remains nuanced and stable without losing musicality, making this string an excellent choice for stylistically sensitive playing where both tonal colour and reliability matter.

Available Versions

Available in medium and superior tension:

TensionItem No.StringTypeGaugeLengthGut Equivalent
medium10FG#7Asynthetic wound–120 cm3.60 mm
superior12FG#7Asynthetic wound–120 cm3.70 mm

Technical Specifications

  • Type: FG / Red Series
  • String: A
  • Material: synthetic, plant-based
  • Winding: red-coated copper
  • Tension: available in medium and superior tension
  • Vibrating string length: 70 cm
  • Total length: 120 cm
  • Gut equivalent: 3.60 mm (medium) / 3.70 mm (superior)

Important Fitting Notes

  • Do not cut the string without preparation.
  • Before trimming, apply a small amount of superglue to the point where the string is to be cut.
  • Before first playing, apply a little rosin to the area where the bow contacts the string.
  • During tuning, it is advisable to keep the string slightly raised out of the bridge and nut grooves at first, and only seat it fully just before reaching final pitch.

Note: The wound strings are made using round wire rather than flat wire, as became common towards the end of the 19th century.

Note: The surface is not completely smooth, but slightly satin due to a special coating. After around a week of playing, the strings will smooth themselves naturally.

Aquila Corde Armoniche srl
Via Aviano 16
36030 Caldogno Vicenza
Italy
aquila(at)aquilacorde.com

Safety information
Specific safety instructions for this product can be found in the user manual or on the packaging.

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