The string diameter is almost double, compared to steel core strings, and these synthetic core strings are stiffer than I had expected. but they mount easily, they are quick to settlle and keep their tuning, and they sound *much* nicer than the steel cores we had before. It is said that smaller violins benefit from steel core G and D strings but I can't say I agree. The synthetic cores add color and warmth and that is greatly welcome for a starting player.