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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/251402
Jim Bob Hawk - Posted - 12/12/2012: 11:13:57
On synthetic heads there is a tension value number, measued maybe with a drum tension tool, or an actual chromatic octave note/tone range they can be adjusted to but what about a goatskin head on a reproduction minstrel banjo, is there any measurable tension or note/tone range recommended?
Oldpiper - Posted - 12/12/2012: 11:27:44
I've found that the drum dial is fairly useless on goat or calf skin heads due to the varying thickness. I've had pretty good success using the torque wrench set at 5 in most cases and on one head at 7.
Fred
jbalch - Posted - 12/12/2012: 15:01:51
I like to tension hide heads the old fashioned way - essentially my hand. I think it is preferable to learn how to listen, feel and hear the set-up you like rather than relying totally on a tool. In that endeavor, there is no substitute for experience.
On banjos with modern hardware, I will use a drumtorque tool to set the initial tension evenly all around the rim. But I don't use or recommend a specific number setting. As Fred suggests - I've used a drumtorque to set an even initial tension somewhere between "5" and "7." But final tension and periodic adjustments are by sound and feel.
I bought a drumdial to try - but do not use it on hide heads. Others may like the tool. But I just don't find it to be helpful.
That is especially true on a reproduction minstrel type banjo. I don't know what kind of hardware your banjo has. But lots of minstrel banjos have relatively few hooks and nuts. Some use wing-nuts or other odd & unique hardware. That might make it very difficult to use the tools you mention - even if you wanted to try.
J-Walk - Posted - 12/12/2012: 15:23:16
I like to feel underneath and make sure the bridge makes an indentation. If I can't feel the bridge making a depression in the head, then it's too tight.
jbalch - Posted - 12/12/2012: 18:17:54
Good point J-Walk: I also judge the tension by looking at the underneath side to see how much the bridge is sinking into the head. That is an easy and quick visual indication.
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