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First 4 string, first reso

I hope I'm posting this in the right spot, thanks David for helping with navigating the site. I've started a 4 string reso (both firsts for me) my previous builds have all been 3 stringers. I've been searching the site and still have a few questions. Can I locate all 4 tuners on a 1 1/2 neck or is it better to laminate a wider head stock? The second photo shows a brass plate tail piece that should keep the strings on the path. The tuners will all fit on the neck (not made yet)but it will be tight and require opposing winding. Also the piezo location, David your suggestion of under the biscuit (between the biscuit and dish?) is hampered by the screw securing it to the cat food dish, glue the biscuit or just let it float under string tension? I plan to attach and offset the neck with the 1 1/2" piece in the box, anchoring it to the back of the box. Any comments or suggestions appreciated. Thanks Ken

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Danny B. on December 11, 2016 at 3:04am

It's also easier for people to see you pictures if you imbed them in your post - click the image that looks like a photo in the top customization bar.
My thought on tuner winding -- is it's better to use any means necessary like screws for string guides or hold downs - than to do opposite winding - it's awkward... especially if you play guitar already.

Permalink Reply by Ken Vickerson on December 11, 2016 at 10:18am

Thanks Danny I couldn't locate the button for imbeding images, maybe because I'm on an Old IPad? I only started to play about five months ago, after I built my first CBG but I am taking your advice in that I've started a scarf jointed head stock that will eliminate the need for opposing winding.

Permalink Reply by David L. on December 11, 2016 at 2:05pm

It is an iPad thing - I don't have the add photo icon either (my really old win XP computer does though)

Permalink Reply by darryl kernaghan on December 11, 2016 at 2:54pm

Couldn't agree more re the winding, i've done a few with reverse winding to keep strings straight, it's a pain, even just playing at home solo, never mind gigging or busking

Permalink Reply by MadGomer on December 11, 2016 at 1:38pm

I'm preparing to build my first reso myself, so eager to learn along with you. I was assuming I'd let my biscuit float on the pie tin, was considering a rod piezo on top of the biscuit, under the saddle of course. You can easily glue wings on the side of your headstock or cant it to get the room for the tuners. Keep us posted!

Permalink Reply by Ken Vickerson on December 11, 2016 at 2:57pm

hey mg thanks for the reply, I've never seen a rod piezo what does it look like? Saddle=Bridge? I found a nice wide maple block in my scrap and cut a slice and cut it again for a scarf joint. I've plotted out a head stock on paper and will send some pics tomorrow. I'm sending a friend request and hope you will send some shots of your build. K

Permalink Reply by MadGomer on December 12, 2016 at 12:48am

Ken, I haven't started mine yet, just have the pie tin at the moment, trying to find a good box, but will probably just end up building one. CB Gitty sells a variety of rod piezos, some pre-wired to jacks, some with bridges, etc. I may do that plus a mag pickup on the neck for some variety, and will probably buy that from CB Gitty as well. Trying to paste a link below for a rod piezo from eBay.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/300932792444?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul...

Permalink Reply by Danny B. on December 12, 2016 at 2:18am

My honest advise also would be to install the $10 mag Gitty sells with volume and tone.
I'm finished with piezo for the time being.

Permalink Reply by Ted Crocker on December 12, 2016 at 8:24am

Here's some headstock, nut, string tree, etc ideas http://handmademusicclubhouse.com/photo/albums/headstock-designs

Permalink Reply by Ken Vickerson on December 12, 2016 at 10:13am

Thanks Ted great resource, I will likely be visiting regularly. I came up with this headstock yesterday, it's either a tulip, unicorn or cat with a mohawk. I appreciate the info.

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