Caleb’s Current String Setup: Pirastro Flexicore Deluxes vs. Original Flexicore
I’m playing on Pirastro Flexicore Deluxes right now because they’re just a little bit more even, and I think they’re still close to Original Flexicores — maybe not on the low strings, but they’re close.
A Note for Pirastro
If Pirastro is listening, it would be great to have something in the middle. The bottom two strings of Original Flexicores have a particular issue: I know the C string (Extended E) is slow, but I think there’s a way around that — a way to tighten it up.
The strings tend to go bottom-heavy: a heavy C string (Extended E), a heavy A string, and a lighter D string. And then the G string is a lighter weight, which is nice in the upper register, but it gets a little gritty on the open string. I’m sure other players experience that too.
What the Pirastro Deluxes Do Well
The Flexicore Deluxes seem a little more middle-voiced. Obviously, it depends on the instrument and what you’re looking for, but I find they’re more even across the board. They still have a little more tension, which I think is good for the hall.
Still a Work in Progress
Every day is different. Some days I feel like they (Flexicore Deluxes) don’t have enough bass for the hall, that they’re a little too mid-voiced, a little thin. But they’re still developing, and I’m working through that. I definitely don’t want to throw the baby out with the bathwater.
Read or listen to our complete interview with Caleb Quillen on Auditions, Sound, and Leadership.
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