RE: bow strings
Well, you've already gotten a tates of Zebra strings probably. That's what Mathews puts on them from the factory so take this to heart. Don't get Zebra.
There are plenty of people making aftermarket strings for about the same money that are of better quality. Right here on this site the is MeanV who handles Vapor Trail, if I'm right. Then there's Gibblet that makes Bucknasty strings. Prostrings is another one I've had good luck with. H&M is supposedly pretty good. There are lots of others.
What you need to figure out is if you just want a string or a complete string/cable set. Ask these guys their prices or visit their websites. All have good customer service. If the string comes to you and isn't right they'll make it right.