Thomastik Alphayue AL400: choosing a set for a 4/4 cello

The four AL400 strings use different constructions for the upper and lower registers. We explain the set and suggest a practical way to assess it after fitting.

Specifications

One set, two core constructions

Thomastik-Infeld lists carbon-steel cores for A (AL41) and D (AL42), with rope cores for G (AL43) and C (AL44). Windings differ too: Hydronalium on A, Multialloy on D and chrome on the lower pair. Do not infer the cello set’s construction from the violin AL100. Sharing the Alphayue name does not mean that the two sets share their core materials.

Check before ordering

This listing is for 4/4, medium gauge. The maker specifies a 70 cm vibrating string length for that version: this is not the cello body length. If your instrument has an unusual scale or tailpiece arrangement, ask a luthier about compatibility. Check the separate specification table for fractional sizes rather than assuming everything in the full-size table carries over.

What to listen for

Start with slow open strings, then try crossings between C and G, and D and A. Notice whether you can keep a phrase even without abrupt changes in right-hand technique. Repeat a familiar passage softly and more strongly. A recording from a little distance helps separate the player’s immediate impression from the listener’s sound; that is more useful than judging only the first loud note.

A practical conclusion

AL400 is worth considering if you want to assess a complete four-string setup before deciding whether individual substitutions are needed. Keep your usual bow, rosin and recording position during the first comparison. Note the fitting date and your observations. Those notes make the next decision specific to your cello rather than dependent on another player’s description of a different instrument.

View the product at SoundsGood

Editorial review based on manufacturer documentation. The cover is an illustration; the catalog photograph appears below. Source: manufacturer documentation ↗