I have a really nice License Plate resonator made by Big Daddy Mojo. The problem I have is sliding on the thickest string which always sounds a bit dull and is hard to do.
As far as I can see, I have two choices. I either raise the action by putting a raiser up at the nut end. This would make it harder to fret notes though. Second choice would be to bet heavier strings. I am going for this option and will get a set of Martin Resonator Strings set at 16, 18, 26, 36, 46, 56. and use the 16, 18, 26 and 36 tuned to D, g, b, d.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002IJJVFG/ref=oss_product
Would that help? I know its all a bit of experimentation but am I at least on the right lines?
Yes. At worst, too much tension can crush a cone. They get a crinkle like a stepped on aluminum pie plate. It can also lock up the cone so it cannot vibrate correctly. Resonators are different than standard guitars. They work more like banjos. The downward pressure on the cone / skin created by the correct string tension is what drives the cone / skin. This is why light strings on a resonator don't work too well. They do not generate enough energy when they vibrate. Tuning up to a or e is dangerous. Keeping it in lower than standard keys like d or g is better. Use a capo to go up. Enjoy.
I am just waiting on delivery of the new CD. Can't wait. There is definitely enough tension on the strings. Can too tension be a bad thing too? E.G. Stopping the cone from resonating?
Norm
Keni Lee Burgess said:
Hello Norm, I think you are on the right track. The proper string tension that allows the guitar to ring correctly and also allows the slide to ride on smoothly is a relationship between string gauge and tuning. If your instrument has a standard scale length, the strings and tuning you have selected should work well together. I use these strings and tuning on my resonator CBG. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLGnnF-TIbY
Please feel free to write if I can be of further assistance. Enjoy, Keni Lee
Hello Norm,
I think you are on the right track. The proper string tension that allows the guitar to ring correctly and also allows the slide to ride on smoothly is a relationship between string gauge and tuning. If your instrument has a standard scale length, the strings and tuning you have selected should work well together. I use these strings and tuning on my resonator CBG. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLGnnF-TIbY
Please feel free to write if I can be of further assistance. Enjoy, Keni Lee
So I went and changed the strings yesterday but that didn't help. I did notice the bridge is not setting centrally on the cone. Could that be the reason? also what about the tension screw on the cone? Can I adjust that? Hope the cone isn't damaged?
There is a small possibility that the cone has crushed a little more on the side with the thickest strings. According to videos I have seen, Big Daddy cuts the bridge on the biscuit of the resonator to compensate for this reality, but maybe it is a hair low on the thickest string because of this tendency by the cone. Is the action at the highest fret the same height on the smallest and the largest strings? If so, then it is probably something else and I am out of ideas. I am sure Big Daddy will take good care of you. I have done business with him and he is a good guy to work with.
Brian Hunt.
Norm Fasey said:
Michael,
I have already fired off an email to him. There's no harm in getting a second opinion. Besides, it encourages discussion by posting it on here and other people might benefit from the replies.
I have already fired off an email to him. There's no harm in getting a second opinion. Besides, it encourages discussion by posting it on here and other people might benefit from the replies.
Replies
I am just waiting on delivery of the new CD. Can't wait. There is definitely enough tension on the strings. Can too tension be a bad thing too? E.G. Stopping the cone from resonating?
Norm
Keni Lee Burgess said:
I think you are on the right track. The proper string tension that allows the guitar to ring correctly and also allows the slide to ride on smoothly is a relationship between string gauge and tuning. If your instrument has a standard scale length, the strings and tuning you have selected should work well together. I use these strings and tuning on my resonator CBG.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLGnnF-TIbY
Please feel free to write if I can be of further assistance. Enjoy, Keni Lee
Norm
Yes it is.
Cheers Ron
Brian Hunt.
Norm Fasey said:
I have already fired off an email to him. There's no harm in getting a second opinion. Besides, it encourages discussion by posting it on here and other people might benefit from the replies.
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