Thomastik-Infeld DOMINANT PRO Viola Strings are a professional string range made in Austria for orchestral, chamber and solo performance. They combine the viola's dark, warm tonal foundation with clear articulation, exceptionally fast response and extensive dynamic control.
Unlike traditional Dominant strings, DOMINANT PRO focuses on particularly direct bow response and strong sound projection. Special attention was paid to tonal consistency across all four strings, creating smooth transitions between registers despite differences in their construction.
Sound and playing characteristics
Thomastik-Infeld describes DOMINANT PRO viola strings as dark and warm, with a slight edge in the upper overtones. This combination preserves the characteristic depth of the viola while helping the musical line carry clearly.
The strings support a broad dynamic range from gentle piano to powerful fortissimo. They respond readily to variations in bow speed, pressure and contact point, including energetic playing with increased bow pressure.
A defining feature is the smooth tonal transition between A, D, G and C. Each string contributes its own tonal qualities without disturbing the overall sound balance.
Individual string characteristics
A string — DP21
Featuring a carbon-steel core and chrome-steel winding, the A string is designed to blend naturally with the lower strings rather than dominating the tonal picture. Thomastik-Infeld highlights its easy playability and minimal nasal character. A removable ball end provides compatibility with suitable ball- and loop-end fittings.
D string — DP22
The synthetic-core, chrome-wound D string forms the bridge between the brilliant A and resonant G. Its tonal character combines a dark viola foundation with pronounced brilliance, clear projection and easy response.
G string — DP23
The synthetic-core G string with silver winding delivers a full, resonant sound with airy upper overtones. Its balanced response helps connect the middle register to the powerful low C string.
C string — DP24
The synthetic-core C string uses a tungsten-silver winding. It provides the bass foundation of the set, offering rapid response and substantial sound volume. Slightly metallic overtones help the lowest register project without losing its underlying warmth.
String construction and article numbers
| String |
Core |
Winding |
Article |
| A |
Carbon steel |
Chrome steel |
DP21 |
| D |
Synthetic |
Chrome steel |
DP22 |
| G |
Synthetic |
Silver |
DP23 |
| C |
Synthetic |
Tungsten / silver |
DP24 |
| Manufacturer |
Thomastik-Infeld, Austria |
| Series |
DOMINANT PRO |
| Instrument |
4/4 viola |
| Complete set |
DP200 |
| Set contents |
Four strings: A, D, G, C |
| Tension |
Medium; 25.5 kg total |
| Vibrating string length |
37.5 cm / 14.8 inches |
| String ends |
Ball ends; removable ball on A |
| Country of manufacture |
Austria |
Who are DOMINANT PRO strings for? Orchestral violists, chamber musicians, soloists and advanced students seeking a warm tonal foundation, excellent projection, rapid response and a wide dynamic range. Particularly suitable for players who want to retain the viola's distinctive dark voice during energetic bowing.
Choosing and maintaining the strings
String choice should take account of the instrument's vibrating string length, response and balance. The specified 37.5 cm refers to the vibrating string length, not the viola body length.
DOMINANT PRO strings are available as the complete DP200 set or as individual replacements. Remove rosin dust with a soft, dry cloth after playing. When changing several strings, replace them one at a time to help preserve bridge position.
