TerryM
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Posts: 469
(7/21/01 8:30:21
am)
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Re: Correct
position of soundpost?
The "standard" position for the soundpost is centered on the A
string foot of the bridge about the width of the soundpost behind
the bridge. The other bridge foot on the C string side is usually
centered directly over the bass bar. The A string bridge foot should
be about the same distance from the f-hole as the C string side.
This places the soundpost at about the same distance away from the
f-hole as the bass bar is on the C string side. Bridges come in
various widths at the foot and the proper width should be selected.
If the bridge is too wide, the foot will not be properly centered on
the bass bar and the A string side will be closer to the f-hole than
it should be. Although the position of the bass bar is fairly
standard on most modern cellos, older cellos can tend to be somewhat
variable on placement of the bass bar.
The soundpost can be
adjusted forward toward the bridge foot or backward, away from the
bridge foot, depending on the sound desired. Adjustments across the
plane of the cello, in the plane of the bridge, are limited because
the soundpost is sloped so that it fits the curvature of the cello
body, top and bottom. If it is moved too far toward the center it
will fit too loosely and likewise if it is moved too far toward the
f-hole it will fit too tightly. It is essential that the soundpost
not get turned during setting, because of the bevel on the ends. I
usually mark the side that has to face the f-hole with a little
pencil mark to ensure that it is properly placed after adjustment.
Moving the soundpost can greatly affect the "color" of the
cello sound, the relative emphasis of the treble vs the bass strings
and the overall playability and of the strings. Although soundpost
adjustments can be made if you have the proper tools, they probably
should be made by an experienced repair person. Damage to the top of
the cello can occur from too frequent adjustment, especially if the
soundpost gets turned the wrong way during adjustment.
I
hope my post has not confused the situation for you. Others on this
board have more experience than I do and may have other views on the
subject.
Terry
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