Using a wound string to re-define the string mark can leave the same effect
as using a saw, or rough file. Instead of cutting smoothly, it can
'chatter'. Leaving a groove with tiny ridges all the way along, in which
the intended string will 'lock'. The symptom you are trying to remove!
I define the position with a very smooth Swiss file (Needle file). Then
polish it with a piece of thin cord (about the same as the string diameter)
with a spot of metal-polish.
I then fit the string. But, before bringing it into tune, I push the
string aside and use pencil-graphite to lubricate the nut. Pop the string
back into place and tune up. The reason I leave the graphite so late, is
because often the string has so much stretch, that most of it will be drawn
towards the peg, leaving very little trace to work during its service.
This is as close as I can get to alleviating the sticking-string problem.
And yes, I can concur with Leonard about giving the string a little
outward tug at mid-point before fine-tuning.
I don't like the idea of pressing behind the nut. IMHO the string is under
the greatest tensile stess here (particularly if there is a tendency to
stick at the nut) and, adding finger-pressure could easily break the string
at the nut.
My 2p
Ron (UK)
-----Original Message-----
From: Matthias Wagner [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: 23 January 2004 06:09
To: Daniel Shoskes; David Rastall
Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: Re: More on tuning
Hi Daniel and David,
> Hi Daniel,
>
> One possible reason the string makes that "quantum jump" is that it may
> be sticking in the groove of the nut. A good way to smooth out the
> groove is with pencil graphite.
This is a way that works but is looking really bad after. I by myself use
an old wound string to polish the string groove. Apply as much as power
you can give. You will realize a moment the string will slide very easy.
The process is done then. You should use different diameters of wound
strings corresponding to size of the groove. Finally you should control
the edge to the fretbord. This may not be sharp but a little bit round,
otherwise the string could be caught by this or may even be damaged.
Hope this helps.
Greetings Matthias
--------------------------------------------------
Matthias Wagner, Lute making
string distribution:Savarez, Aquila, Kurschner, Pyramid, Pirastro
Klemmbachstr. 11 a
D - 79410 Badenweiler - Schweighof
Tel. +49-7632 - 82 86 95, Fax: +49-7632 82 898 68
e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.lutes-strings.de
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