- Taigu Strings, trial version
In order to promote the use of silk strings and to collect the views of qin players, the first 100 sets of Taigu Strings were produced in 1999 and were not for sale. They were labelled as “trial version” and presented as gifts to qin players in different places, together with a questionnaire on the experience of using the strings.
The way in which the strings were tied follows that of Jinyu Strings of the later period. A set of “points to note in using guqin strings” was printed on the paper wrapping.
- Taigu Strings, jiazhong (thick)
The Taigu Strings from formal production in the early days were tied together in the same manner as the Laosantai Huihui Tang Strings in the early years of the Republic of China. There were three bundles, which were the first to the fourth strings, the fifth to the seventh strings and a spare seventh string. The “points to note” were expanded to form a separate information sheet. A piece of string glue was provided for repairing and preserving the strings. There were two versions, namely the thicker “jiazhong” and the thinner “zhongqing” versions.
The exhibits, produced in 2000, are jiazhong Taigu Strings.
- Taigu Strings, superfine zhongqing
After several years of development, Taigu Strings with the three traditional specifications were produced: the standard “taigu”, the thinner “zhongqing” and the thicker “jiazhong”. They were tied with red, green and blue threads respectively for identification purposes. Products whose quality had reached a particular level were labelled “superfine”.
The exhibits, produced in 2003, are superfine zhongqing strings. Each set is packed in vacuum with white wrapping, accompanied by an information sheet and a piece of string glue.
- Taigu Strings, standard Taigu
All types of Taigu Strings are made with the same raw materials according to the same procedures. But the quality varies according to the quality of the silk, the difference in craftsmanship, the seasons and the weather. If the quality cannot reach a particular standard, the products will be classified as “standard” and the price will be reduced to half that of superfine strings so that even qin beginners can afford.
The exhibits, produced in 2004, are standard Taigu Strings. Each set is packed in vacuum with yellow envelope, accompanied by an information sheet and a piece of string glue.
- Taigu Ice Strings
From 2006, on top of the existing method of string making, the strings were further processed in different manners. This resulted in a type of strings that is smooth on the surface and clear in its colour. When played, the strings give a very small amount of buzzing noise, while the sound of glissando is very clear. They are called Taigu Ice Strings. As the cost was high, only one batch has been produced on a trial basis.
The exhibits, produced in 2009, are jiazhong Taigu Ice Strings. Each string is packed in vacuum in separate envelopes. The full set comes with a wooden box.