The resonators are simple PVC piping of various diameters! Tuning those was dead simple, just cut a section out, put a cap on one end then bang it with a hammer to produce a tone, then just chop a bit off to raise the pitch,
For the keys it was a bit more complicated, I typed out a comment giving the basics and linking to the blog I used to figure it out though!
Thanks for this. I have an old busted premier marimba with fiberglass keys and a few are cracked. Maybe I’ll make a new set because the frame and resonators and still in decent shape. Although I am sure the tuning process was a nightmare!
Wow! What are the resonation tubes made out of? Can you describe the process of tuning each key?
The resonators are simple PVC piping of various diameters! Tuning those was dead simple, just cut a section out, put a cap on one end then bang it with a hammer to produce a tone, then just chop a bit off to raise the pitch,
For the keys it was a bit more complicated, I typed out a comment giving the basics and linking to the blog I used to figure it out though!
https://lemmy.ml/comment/503333
Thanks for this. I have an old busted premier marimba with fiberglass keys and a few are cracked. Maybe I’ll make a new set because the frame and resonators and still in decent shape. Although I am sure the tuning process was a nightmare!
How did you finish the keys?
This old blog has all the info you’ll need http://www.lafavre.us/tuning-marimba.htm
I used a bandsaw or router to cut out the rough arc, then a belt sander to fine tune
Oh thanks but I meant like did you stain them or use oil on them or whatever ha
Ah, I did a double coat of tung oil!