Intonation Problems
Instruments- discuss specific features, luthiers, instrument problems & questions
Thanks, Ken. The action is significantly higher than that; I could probably put 3 dimes!
This is a great place to start
I agree.
One way to finalize the optimum action height the dulcimer is capable of is to find out the minimum saddle height at which the bass string doesn't buzz, then add .005". A set of number drills (1-60) is great for this, since each drill is a very small variant of its neighboring drills' diameter. So remove the bridge and substitute a number drill. Intonation doesn't matter for this test of course, but you do want to be tuned to playing pitch.
This is genius. What about the nut? Remove that and replace with a closely sized bit, too?
That's a great idea! just remember to replace the nut with a packing piece so it is level with the fingerboard before starting.
Every dulcimer will have its own fingerboard 'profile,' meaning a concave 'dish', though some makers prefer to build with a flat fingerboard, I hear.
For what it's worth, I set the nut height at .015" higher than the fret crown I'm using. That seems about right for the way I profile the fingerboard.
updated by @dwain-wilder: 02/01/24 08:14:05PM