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!
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!