D'Addario J912 LM Viola Strings

Warm, Stable Tone for Long-Scale Violas

The D'Addario Prelude Viola Single D String is a replacement D string engineered for long-scale violas, designed around a solid steel core that produces a warm, focused tone with reliable bow response. Sized for instruments with a body length of 16 to 16.5 inches (406–419 mm) and a playing length of 380 mm, this medium-tension string fits the majority of student and intermediate violas on the market. A unique damping process shapes the string's voice, helping it stay warm and articulate under the bow without harshness. The D string ships in a sealed pouch that protects against the humidity and temperature changes that normally shorten string life. As a single replacement, it lets players swap out a worn D without buying a full set.

Technical Specifications

• String Designation: D — single replacement string
• Number of Strings: 1 (single replacement, not a full set)
• Instrument Compatibility: Long-scale viola (body length 16–16.5 in / 406–419 mm, playing length 380 mm)
• Built around a Solid Steel core that holds pitch through humidity and temperature changes
• Tension: Medium — balanced feel suited to most players
• Ball-end fitting for quick installation on standard viola tailpieces
• Country of Manufacture: USA (designed, engineered and manufactured in New York)

Who It's For

Designed for students, teachers and school orchestra programs that need a dependable replacement D string at an accessible price point, this string fits the bill. Its medium tension suits the majority of players, while the solid steel core keeps the string stable through classroom humidity swings and seasonal changes. The string works equally well across classical, fiddle, jazz and alternative styles, making it a flexible option for viola players exploring different repertoires. Educators favor Prelude for its blend of warm tone, durability and value, and the single-string format makes it easy to replace a broken D without committing to a full set. Right-handed players using standard ball-end viola tailpieces will find installation straightforward.