Balalaika string tension
A balalaika prima has only three strings, tuned E4 E4 A4, but the choice of material changes everything. The calculator opens on a 439 mm prima with Pyramid's 679/3 all-steel set: a 0.28 mm (.011) A and two 0.38 mm (.015) E strings, as listed by Thomann. Each string pulls about 16 to 17 lb (7.3 to 7.6 kg), close to an electric guitar string, and the set adds up to 49.5 lb (22.5 kg).
Tension of the Pyramid 679/3 balalaika prima set
E E A tuning, 439 mm scale, plain steel weighed from its density; total 49.5 lb (22.5 kg).
| String | Note | Gauge | kg | lb |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | A4 | .011 | 7.3 | 16.0 |
| 2 | E4 | .015 | 7.6 | 16.7 |
| 3 | E4 | .015 | 7.6 | 16.7 |
Pyramid 679/3 balalaika prima strings (steel), Thomann listing
How to use it
- The prima, the standard E E A tuning and the Pyramid 679/3 set are loaded on 439 mm. Change the scale if yours measures differently.
- Pick lb, kg or N, and choose the nylon set in Compare with to see both side by side.
- Use String by string to try another gauge, for example a heavier steel E or a carbon string.
Help and explanations
Switch to Pyramid's N679/3, with nylon E strings, to compare, or pick a folk tuning and watch how far the tension moves.
Steel or nylon on the E strings
Concert primas today usually carry synthetic E strings, nylon or carbon, with a steel A; folk players often stay with all steel. With Pyramid's N679/3, 1.0 mm nylon E strings and a 0.30 mm steel A, the calculator gives 14.7 lb (6.7 kg) on each E and 18.5 lb (8.4 kg) on the A, 47.9 lb (21.7 kg) in all, close to the steel set but with a softer, rounder sound. The nylon and the 0.30 mm A are not in the D'Addario chart: their weight is estimated from gauge and density and marked with ≈.
The two E strings sit side by side and are played together, so keep them the same material and gauge or the unison will beat.
Folk tunings
Besides the academic E E A, players use folk tunings. Tuned to C E G on the steel set, the low string drops to C4 and pulls only 10.5 lb (4.8 kg); tuned D F♯ A, the middle string rises to F♯4 and pulls 21.1 lb (9.6 kg). A .015 at F♯4 is near the top of what a light steel string likes on this scale, so watch it when you tune up.
Tension uses D'Addario's formula, T = UW × (2 × L × F)² ÷ 386.4, with plain steel weighed from its density.
Tips
- Pyramid's steel strings are loop end: the twisted end at the loop can be sharp, so mind the top and your fingers.
- Changed material? Check the action afterwards with the action and relief guide.
- Tune the unison E strings with the balalaika tuner one at a time, then together.
Frequently asked questions
What gauge are balalaika strings?
Pyramid's 679/3 prima set is all steel: 0.28 mm (.011) for A and 0.38 mm (.015) for each E. The N679/3 uses 1.0 mm nylon for the E strings and 0.30 mm steel for A.
How much tension is on a balalaika?
On a 439 mm prima, about 49.5 lb (22.5 kg) with the steel set: 16.0 lb on A and 16.7 lb on each E. The nylon set totals about 47.9 lb (21.7 kg).
Should balalaika strings be steel or nylon?
Concert primas usually have nylon or carbon E strings and a steel A; folk balalaikas often use all steel. Tension is similar, the sound is not.
What are the notes of the balalaika strings?
E4 E4 A4 on the prima: 329.63, 329.63 and 440 Hz. The two E strings are in unison and the A is a fourth above.
Can I tune a balalaika to a folk tuning with the same strings?
C E G works and lowers the tension. D F♯ A pushes the middle string to 21.1 lb (9.6 kg) on a steel .015, so tune up slowly.