BOWED STRINGS / IN-DEPTH REVIEW
Superflexible Orchestra 42 is an uncommon full 4/4 double-bass set combining braided steel cores, chrome winding, and standard E–A–D–G orchestral tuning. We examine arco and pizzicato feel, size selection, and safe installation of these substantial strings.
SoundsGood Editorial Team · September 8, 2026
Braided steel rather than solid wire
Each core is made from intertwined steel strands. The cable is more flexible than solid wire, bends over the bridge more readily, and reacts faster to transverse bow movement. Superflexible describes controlled elasticity, not support-free softness.
Chrome outer winding adds wear resistance and a smooth finger feel. All four strings follow the same construction logic, making E–A–D–G transitions consistent rather than tonally abrupt.
Orchestra means E–A–D–G
Set 42 is designed for standard E1–A1–D2–G2 orchestral tuning, used in symphony, chamber music, most jazz, and study. Orchestra identifies the tuning, not an exclusion of other styles.
Solo strings tune a whole step higher to F#–B–E–A and serve a different projection requirement. Do not simply raise Orchestra strings to Solo pitch; use the dedicated construction.
Arco: articulation, focus, and contact
The cable core starts quickly under bow hair, while chrome interacts predictably with bass rosin. Long notes retain a stable centre and short strokes begin clearly without needless metallic rattle.
Excess rosin does not create a more orchestral sound; it adds noise and a sticky layer. Apply a minimum, play it in, and add only when contact genuinely requires it.
Pizzicato and jazz versatility
In pizzicato, Superflexible provides a clear note front and useful sustain. It may be less springy than specialised Spirocore on some basses, but returning to arco does not demand a technical compromise.
That balance benefits players moving between orchestra and jazz. If nearly all work is aggressive slap or exclusively solo arco, a specialised family may be more exact.
4/4: measure the instrument, not the player
A 4/4 double bass is not the equivalent of a 'full-size' violin. The most common adult bass is 3/4; a true 4/4 is larger and rarer. Never order from the phrase adult double bass alone.
Verify vibrating length and the distances from pegs to tailpiece. Incorrect silk placement can end up over the bridge or peg. SoundsGood can help confirm dimensions before purchase.
Fitting a substantial set
Change double-bass strings one at a time. Removing all tension can move the bridge or soundpost. Check grooves and avoid crossing thick winding turns.
Raise pitch gradually and make sure both bridge feet remain fully seated. Stop if the bridge leans. Professional correction costs far less than repairing a warped bridge or damaged instrument.
Care, service, and verdict
Remove rosin and perspiration after playing. Chrome is durable, but contamination between winding turns changes surface and response. False overtones, unstable intonation, slow starts, and fraying are practical wear signs.
Superflexible Orchestra 42 is a durable all-round set for a large bass expected to work seriously under bow and fingers. We recommend it for stability, clarity, and comfort—after confirming the true 4/4 size.
Official video: Thomastik-Infeld double-bass strings: bowed or plucked
This official Thomastik-Infeld short asks the central bass-string question: bowed or plucked? It presents the newer Peter Infeld family, but the selection criterion directly informs an assessment of Superflexible's versatility.
Technical specifications
| Purpose | double bass string set |
|---|---|
| Size | 4/4; verify scale before ordering |
| Tension | medium |
| Tuning | Orchestra: E1–A1–D2–G2 |
| E | braided steel core, chrome wound |
| A | braided steel core, chrome wound |
| D | braided steel core, chrome wound |
| G | braided steel core, chrome wound |
| Reference | Thomastik 42 / SoundsGood Thomastik-42 |
| Made in | Vienna, Austria |
4/4 is an uncommon large double-bass size. Most adult instruments use 3/4, so verify scale rather than assuming.
Frequently asked questions
Will it fit a 3/4 bass?
Do not order blindly. The set is marked 4/4; confirm scale and silk positions for your instrument.
Can it be used for jazz?
Yes. It offers clear pizzicato articulation and sustain while remaining arco-capable.
How does Orchestra differ from Solo?
Orchestra tunes E–A–D–G; Solo tunes F#–B–E–A and is designed for another operating load.
How quickly does it settle?
Usually faster than synthetic or gut, but check tuning and bridge alignment for several days.
Which rosin should I use?
Use dedicated double-bass rosin. Hardness depends on climate and style; begin with a small quantity.
View the product at SoundsGood
The product page shows current price and availability. Before ordering, SoundsGood can verify 4/4 size, scale, and the required Orchestra tuning.
- genuine product with official warranty
- free delivery on orders over UAH 4,000 in Ukraine
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- professional string-matching advice
