Lyon Gut Strings

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This is a standard length (48", 120cm), single twist, Lyon-style string made with beef serosa available with either a natural or varnish finish. 

This type of gut is named after the town in France which was famous for a particular type of flexible gut string. From the 16th century these strings were recommended as being some of the best strings for basses. Our reproduction of this string is made from gut specially processed in our shop to be soft and responsive. The gut is twisted in one direction to a high twist for the optimum combination of durability and flexibility.

The Lyon string is not as flexible as the Pistoy string. Both Lyon and Pistoy can be used for the same string positions. The Lyon should be preferred when a little extra stiffness is required under the bow or finger. This type of string is characterized by a tight and visible twist. The natural color tends toward opaque light to medium yellow. The Lyon-style of gut string is a high twist, single spin construction that offers a tone that is full and warm with a powerful fundamental and complex, pleasing upper partials.

Lyon strings are an ideal use for:

  • Violin: D-3, G-4
  • Viola: d-2, G-3
  • Cello: a-1, d-2
  • Contrabass: g-1, d-2
  • Bass Viol: e-3, C-4, G-5, D-6
  • Tenor Viol: f-4, C-5, G-6
  • Treble Viol: C-4, G-5, D-6
  • Lute: f-4, c-5, G-6, octaves on bass courses
  • Harp: Midrange and bass strings

Use our String Calculators to find the correct strings for your instrument. You can find Specific String Tensions here. Interested in varnished strings? Many strings come with the Option to Add Varnish.

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