Viola string tensions

This table shows the tensions that result from the different gauges available for the viola. The string length is assumed to be about 36cm and the pitch standard is assumed to be a-415. If the string length on your instrument is a little longer, then the tension will be a little more. If the string length on your instrument is a little shorter, then the tension will be a little less. You can use this table to find out what sort of tension you are using on your viola. Each string is listed with a type of gut that is used on the instrument. There are two listings for the G-3 and C-4 strings. There is one listing each for wound strings and for plain gut strings.
If you have any questions about string tensions that are not answered here, please e-mail: info@gamutstrings.com
Diameter Tension
Note in mm in Kg
Viola a-1 treble gut
a Light 0.72 4.80
a Light+ 0.74 5.10
a Medium 0.76 5.40
a Medium+ 0.78 5.60
a Heavy 0.80 5.90
a Heavy+ 0.82 6.20
Viola d-2 Lyon gut, Pistoy gut, or Gimped string
d Light 1.00 4.20
d Light+ 1.02 4.30
d Medium 1.04 4.50
d Medium+ 1.06 4.70
d Heavy 1.08 4.80
d Heavy+ 1.10 5.00
Viola G-3 Lyon gut, Pistoy gut, or Gimped string
G Light 1.48 4.00
G Light+ 1.50 4.20
G Medium 1.54 4.40
G Medium+ 1.56 4.40
G Heavy 1.58 4.80
G Heavy+ 1.60 4.70
Viola G-3 Silver wound string
G Light .78 4.00
G Light+ .80 4.10
G Medium .82 4.30
G Medium+ .84 4.40
G Heavy .86 4.60
G Heavy+ .88 4.70
Viola C-4 Lyon gut, Pistoy gut, or Gimped string
C Light 2.10 3.62
C Light+ 2.14 3.80
C Medium 2.20 4.00
C Medium+ 2.26 4.20
C Heavy 2.36 4.60
C Heavy+ 2.42 4.80
Viola C-4 Silver wound
C Light 1.10 3.62
C Light+ 1.14 3.80
C Medium 1.18 4.00
C Medium+ 1.22 4.20
C Heavy 1.30 4.60
C Heavy+ 1.34 4.80
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