correcting intonation on a laoutar
A laoutar is a hybrid of a mandocello and a Greek lute.
This extraordinary instrument was beautifully designed and skillfully crafted by Rick Turner combining old and new design.
Though the beautiful bridge has a saddle carefully crowned the intonation was a little off.
Despite the care and precision Rick applied to this instrument the string length was lacking compensation making it play sharp. The remedy would be to extend the neck away from the body increasing the string length by a tenth of an inch..
The neck is easily detached by removing four screws from the back.
The holes in the neck are plugged.
Two shims are fashioned to relocate the neck on the body as well as adjust its angle to lower the action.
The shim was made of plastic allowing it to conform with the curvature and tapered to fit properly.
Jim Matus, an astounding artist, was delightd. "Harry, You were right, this is like a rediscovery. My musical batteries are recharged. I was up playing last night until my fingers hurt. You are a magician, an alchemist and my hat is off to you. Jim