Seems like a reasonable way to start. The string length for the Lasner in the Germanisches Nationalmuseum is 345 (from the plan I mentioned earlier), as is my Hubbart HG, so that seems like a good starting place. Another point to think about is where the tonic falls on the keyboard. Seems like the usual (French) keyboard has the tonic on the third key (which is C in G/C tuning).
I am curious about alto HGs - the few I've seen have a wider variety of string lengths (most of which are at least slightly longer than 345), and I assume the tonic falls in a different location on the keyboard. The instrument that Gregory Jolivet plays (for example) appears to be considerably longer. --Norm From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Kazimierz Verkmastare Sent: Wednesday, November 02, 2011 6:45 PM To: [email protected] Subject: [HG-new] Specifications for proposed 'builder gurdy' - part 1, start with one important dimension I kind of like the idea of developing the plans for such a creature around the best practices as agreed upon by those who know, specifically keeping in mind the limitations of most beginner luthier's shop setup. Designing for the beginning builder without being condescending, if that is possible. If we are to truly gain the kind of understanding of the instrument that makes it really worthwhile to build it, then understanding the design issues is important, and there is no better way to gain this than actually designing one. Besides, a functional plan set can allow those with more experience and resources to do things like changing the body shape and style, changing the head type, changing some aspects of the keybox, while staying faithful to the important dimensions, sizes and angles. So if there are some interested in pursuing this flight of fancy, I suggest that we first decide on a scale length. In my early research, while I was looking to design my sinphone, I was trying to make things easy on myself by settling on a good 'normal' string length so that I could obtain strings relatively easily. After getting a dozen answers, the most common I received was 345 mm. I am not suggesting we use that particular number, but I think we need to set one important dimension in order to start designing the rest. Any other suggestions or comments, from builders or players, on what luck they have had finding strings for certain scale length instruments, and if anyone has experience with multiple instruments with different scale lengths, what seems to be the most conducive to playing different styles of music? Just trying to keep up the momentum up. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "hurdygurdy" group. To post to this group, send email to [email protected] To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected] For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/hurdygurdy The rules of posting, courtesy, and other list information may be found at http://hurdygurdy.com/mailinglist/index.htm. To reduce spam, posts from new subscribers are held pending approval by the webmaster.
