FAQ

String tension affects not only the feel under your fingers, but also the way the instrument vibrates and develops its sound.

Many modern double bass strings are built with relatively high tension. While this can provide a very direct and stable playing feel, it can also restrict the instrument's natural vibration and lead to a more compressed sound.

Double basses were originally designed for gut strings, whose tension was considerably lower than that of many modern steel strings. Tempera Strings are inspired by this freer vibration while combining it with the tuning stability, precision and durability of modern strings.

Low tension does not automatically mean less volume. An instrument that is allowed to vibrate freely will often produce a more open sound, a wider dynamic range and a quicker, more effortless response.

Not necessarily. Tempera Strings are designed to work well on most modern setups without requiring any adjustments.

Because they allow the instrument to vibrate more freely, they are also more responsive to setup details. Soundpost position, bridge height or tailpiece weight can all have a noticeable influence on the instrument's response and sound.

We recommend installing the strings on your current setup first and giving both the strings and the instrument a few days to settle. If you have any questions afterwards or feel your setup could be improved further, don't hesitate to contact us.

Yes. We offer two models that are specifically designed for jazz: HYBRID and HYBRID Oak.

HYBRID is intended for players looking for an open, powerful pizzicato sound without compromising bow response.

HYBRID Oak has a slightly larger gauge and produces a darker, woodier sound. Its character is inspired even more by the traditional gut string sound and is particularly suited to players looking for a warm, rhythmic, old-school tone.

With proper installation and care, Tempera Strings have a very long lifespan. You can find our mounting instructions here.

Our strings are not designed to sound their best only during the first few days. They continue to develop over the first weeks as they settle and become increasingly integrated with the instrument. The bass itself also needs some time to adapt to the new tension and vibration.

Their lifespan ultimately depends on factors such as playing intensity, regular cleaning and the individual chemistry of the player's hands.

Many players who have used Thomastik Spirocore choose HYBRID when switching to Tempera.

HYBRID offers the same versatility and excellent pizzicato performance while following a different philosophy: lower string tension, a freer vibrating instrument and a more open, effortless sound.

Players looking for a thicker, woodier and more traditional sound often prefer HYBRID Oak.

Tempera Strings are generally offered as complete sets, as each string is designed and balanced to work optimally with the others.

If you ever need to replace a single string due to damage or wear, that's no problem. Simply get in touch with us, and we'll be happy to help.

Due to the complexity of our manufacturing process, we do not offer free trial sets or endorsement strings.

However, you're welcome to try our strings by appointment at our workshop in Berlin or through one of our partners, where you can experience their sound, response and playing feel for yourself.

After playing, simply wipe off rosin and dirt with a soft, dry cloth.

For more stubborn residue, you can apply a small amount of alcohol to a cloth and carefully clean the strings. Be careful not to let any alcohol come into contact with the varnish of your instrument.

Never apply alcohol directly to the strings or the instrument.

You can find our installation guide here:

Mounting Instructions

Shipping costs depend on the destination country and the selected shipping method. The exact shipping costs are calculated automatically during checkout.

If shipping is not available for your country, please feel free to contact us.

We ship Tempera Strings to almost every country worldwide.

Depending on your location, it may be easier or more economical to order through one of our partners. For deliveries outside the European Union, import duties, taxes or handling fees may apply.

Every Tempera string is carefully inspected before shipping. If you believe you've received a defective string, please contact us with a short description of the issue and, if possible, a few photos.

We'll review each case individually and do our best to find a fair solution. Damage caused by incorrect installation, sharp edges on the instrument or normal wear is excluded.

Yes. If your business is located within the European Union (outside Germany) and has a valid VAT identification number, simply enter your VAT number during checkout.

Our system automatically verifies its validity. Once verified, VAT will be removed from your order automatically.

If you experience any issues, please don't hesitate to contact us.