2 mins
Good as gold
A cello set heralds the launch of a new range
For-Tune Strings has launched its new Opal Gold range with a set for cello. Following on from the Opal Titan, and using the Titan’s bespoke machinery and methods, Opal Gold goes ‘further in its brilliance and range of possibilities’ says marketing manager Jordi Palau. The set’s most notable innovation is the ‘steel twin-X core’ of the tungstenwound C and G strings. ‘The core is divided into two parts, which are twisted in different directions, among other innovations,’ says research and development manager Curdin Coray. The result of this new construction, he says, is more flexibility, improved attack and more brilliance.
Gut strings also served as an inspiration for the Opal Gold. ‘We aimed to create a sound with a spectrum of overtones similar to gut strings,’ says Coray. ‘More overtones give the player more possibilities with their sound.’ With this flexibility in mind, Palau says, ‘There are good strings on the market with strong personalities, but our goal was that the strings themselves allow the players to find their own sound.’ This flexibility makes the strings especially suitable for soloists, explains Coray.
Another goal was to create good balance. With the whole set in mind, For-Tune Strings created alloy-wound steel-core A and
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D strings to complement the new C and G strings. ‘The listener shouldn’t know when the player is playing on any particular string,’ says Palau. Repeated trials with different instruments and players ‘helped us to choose which variation of each string would create a well-balanced set’.
‘Every series has different goals, and for the Opal Gold range, it was to give a breadth of sonic possibilities to the player,’ says Palau. ‘Making sure players are satisfied is what gives us the energy to continue our research, and investment in new technology.’
For-Tune Strings Opal Gold string for cello €242 email info@fortunestrings.com web www.fortunestrings.com
MICROPHONE
NO WIRES ATTACHED
Cloudvocal’s new Isolo VF-10 wireless system for violin includes a wireless microphone, adjustable mount and receiver. It can adjust the volume of the violin, add effects and manipulate the tone to the player’s preferences. To connect the microphone and receiver, click the pairing button on the microphone.
Cloudvocal Isolo VF-10 wireless system $499
email service@cloudvocal.com
web https://us.cloudvocal.com
TAILGUT
HANG ON
Schilbach’s new PES-coated tailgut with Kevlar core is designed to reduce stretching under tension for quicker instrument response. Schilbach claims that because of Kevlar’s dampening properties, the instrument’s sound becomes fuller. The length can be adjusted, and it is available for violin and cello.
Schilbach tailgut with Kevlar core for violin and cello €4.16
email shop@schilbach.net
web
www.shop-schilbach.net