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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/395366
KevinBRielly - Posted - 01/25/2024: 07:05:40
I have an open back banjo I made about 15 years ago. I bought a Waverly tailpiece, the one without a cover, for it. I'm considering replacing it with a Kirschner Unique tailpiece. Will the Kirschner tailpiece change the tone? The tone ring is rolled brass, obtained from StewMac. Any comments on the tailpiece change?
BobbyE - Posted - 01/25/2024: 07:57:21
I play a resonator banjo but can tell you that a difference tailpiece has the capability to change the tone of a banjo. I say capability based on the weight of the tailpiece itself, material it is made of, and then they way it is setup as to how it can be adjusted once mounted on the banjo. Downward tension and upward tension as to tension of string across the bridge all can affect the tone of the banjo. I would exhaust all options with the tailpiece you already have first. And then if that fails go for a new TP with the fact in mind that a different one might not change that much or give you the tone you desire. Really just a try it and see approach is about the best you can hope for.
Bobby
heavy5 - Posted - 01/25/2024: 08:37:44
In addition to tone , relieving or adding downward tailpiece pressure can effect the string height .
Keith Baumann - Posted - 01/25/2024: 08:45:51
Tailpiece choice will impact banjo tone absolutely. The weight, its distance from the bridge, it's downward angle and even the angle of the strings side to side it creates going from bridge to tail. I once asked a well known banjo setup guru, "what modification can affect banjo tone." he simply answered, "Everything". I also agree you should explore adjusting your existing tailpiece before jumping to another.
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