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Permalink Reply by Clock The Wolf on March 8, 2012 at 7:16am

   Well, the most common tuning for the Shamisen is the so-called Honchosi tuning (Home tuning),

   the first and third string tuned an octave apart, the second tuned a fourth from the first: DGD, for

   instance. In other words, ADA, GCG, etc. But...you also see, for example, DAD and DGC,

   although DGD-type tuning is the core tuning.What's really important here is the style of playing,

   and the plectrum:

                                           

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Permalink Reply by Marcus P. Clarke on March 8, 2012 at 7:50am

The plectrum looks large and I tried the tunings on a 3 string box that i had un-stringed. It sounded a bit high in overall tone. perhaps some larger strings and a lower tuning to get the oriental tone i saw on u-tube.  Have you used these plectrums and are the makable...P

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Permalink Reply by Clock The Wolf on March 8, 2012 at 8:05am

   These days, most such instruments use nylon, as opposed to the traditional gut. Metal strings

   are uncommon. No reason you couldn't make a plectrum. I've got one a relative gave me... the

   edge is actually sharp!

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Permalink Reply by Marcus P. Clarke on March 8, 2012 at 8:47am

I believe I will get some nylon strings. I saw the plectrums on ebay very expensive for what looks like a putty knife. I am going to draw a couple templates and try different materials. Can't believe what a retired guy will do to keep busy. At the end of the attempt a little Makers Mark might help...P

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Permalink Reply by Grease Stains on March 9, 2012 at 3:48am

I remeber the first time i saw someone playing one of these! i looked at my friend and asked in all seriousness, "are they using ice scrapers as picks??!??" 

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Permalink Reply by robert jones on March 9, 2012 at 1:46pm

If you want the authentic sound it's going to be tough to purchase the hide used for the head...open can of tuna in a live trap left outside over night would sort that out.

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Permalink Reply by Marcus P. Clarke on March 9, 2012 at 2:13pm

no cat skins no dog skins just another box and faith...P

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Permalink Reply by robert jones on March 10, 2012 at 1:20am

What and give up the only good use for a cat ever invented by man? :D

Thinking about this seriously though a box with the lid replaced by a piece of synthetic hide would probably get you close to the sound.

Are you going to make a plectrum?

Cow horn is easy to work and generally cheap.

Cut a piece out a little larger than the finished plectrum.

Even out the thickness a bit.

Heat in mineral oil for about ten minutes.(Hot but not boiling)

Place between two scrap pieces of wood and set a brick or two on top to flatten the horn.

Leave until cool.

Scrape to desired finished thickness.

Shape and give it a light polish with #0000 steel wool.

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Permalink Reply by Marcus P. Clarke on March 10, 2012 at 5:40am

I have actually carved a plectrum from a scrape of hardwood and sharpened the blade part. It feels pretty good in my hand and I'm learning to use it on youtube...P

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Permalink Reply by robert jones on March 10, 2012 at 9:52am

Well let us hear how it comes out when you get the hang of playing.

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