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Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/221323
DoubleG - Posted - 11/24/2011: 09:37:20
I have been dying to try nylon or gut strings on my banjo in my search for the sound I'm happy with and I bought (2) sets of "Chris Sands" that were recommended by OWC. I learned how to tie the bowline knot and proceeded to put on the first string. However, it would not stay in the nut slot because the string diameter was larger than the finer cut used for the metal string. So my question is (and this seems unavoidable) do I need to get the nut totally recut or replaced to fit this new type of string? Can I have (2) different nuts that I could swap out when I change from nylon back to metal strings in the future. I know the easiest answer is to get another banjo and I'm working on that, but for now, anyone have a suggestion?
Fathand - Posted - 11/24/2011: 10:21:42
For best tone you will likely need two nuts. The other option is getting one of those cheap plastic moulded nuts with V Grooves that will fit most any string, it probably won't buzz but you will lose tone.
DoubleG - Posted - 11/24/2011: 11:21:27
Thanks, but isn't the nut glued into the slot? Seems like you would need to get a luthier to swap out the nut each time you want to go back and forth from nylon to metal strings. I just need another banjo!
jduke - Posted - 11/24/2011: 11:38:35
Usually, the nut is not glued, or is only glued with a small spot to keep it in place. Use a small screwdriver to carefully pry the nut up. It should come out quite easily, but if not, don't force it.
John Gribble - Posted - 11/24/2011: 13:32:45
quote:
Originally posted by jduke
Usually, the nut is not glued, or is only glued with a small spot to keep it in place. Use a small screwdriver to carefully pry the nut up. It should come out quite easily, but if not, don't force it.
My experience is the nut is usually glued in, but we can hope not too tightly.
Gluing is not necessary. The nut on top-end, multi-thousands-of-dollars classical guitars aren't glued in.
I have widened the slots on several banjos to accommodate nylon strings, then gone back to steel. The wider nut didn't make any difference to my ear in tone, nor did it affect tuning or playability. You might not like the look of it, though.
You don't need any special tools. I use a knife blade jeweler's file. I think I have about $3.00 invested in it, but I bought it a long time ago.
If you decide to do it yourself, remember you're working on the sides of the slots, not the bottom. Don't unintentionally make the slots too deep. Put the new strings on, bring them up to pitch. Lift a string out of the slot. Make a few swipes on both sides of the slot, then check your progress.
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