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 Maintaining HEAD TENSION: We use a drum dial to measure the head tension on each banjo. I strongly recommend this, as it tells you the exact tension of the head. Once you like the sound, you can write down the number and easily maintain the head tension to this number. Also, by placing it in different areas of the head, you can be certain the tension is even across the head. Each banjo may sound best at a slightly different tension, due to dust in the hooks, etc. No two are identical. I used to tap tune, but the drum dial is absolutely accurate. TO TAP TUNE A BANJO HEAD: 1.) Make sure the banjo is in G tuning. 2.) Place your left fingers lightly over the strings to keep them from ringing. 3.) Tap the head by the neck (away from the bridge). 4.) Listen for a pitch. 5.) Play a G# chord in the "F" shape. Compare the pitch with the chord. 6.)If the pitch is lower, tighten the head; if the chord is lower, loosen the head. 7.)Move the left head in the "F" Shape to find the chord which blends with the tone you hear. This will also tell you if it is lower or higher than G#. I hope this makes sense. You can put an auto-tuner inside the pot or drum, and often, this will tell you the pitch. However, it may give you a sympathetic tone in the chord. |
 The Banjo Store JDMC Janet Davis Music Company 13026 Highway 71 North Bentonville, AR 72712 |
