How hard would it be to build something like this?

[colcifer]

So: since they cost a pretty penny to buy I'm wondering how hard they would be to build. I'm thinking a basic flat top one would be doable but I'm not sure of their construction so I wanted to see what you guys thought.

Thanks,
c

 

[sbass traveller]

Those things are really cool, especially when they hit that low not and let it drone. I've seen 'em in asia for anywhere from 2000RMB (about $300) to 10,000RMB (about $7500) and probably more. I don't think it would be too difficult to build one, especially if you have some woodworking skills, but it might help to find a cheap one or borrow one so you can have something to work with, just to have a tuning guide and give you an idea on bridge placement/usage. I thought about making one myself and when I get back to Canada and my tools, I just might try. I'm definitely interested.

 

[taviswardlaw]

another way to experiment would be to buy/make the hardware (bridge, nut - if that is the correct term and tuning pegs) and buy a cheap piece of particle board to experiment with different setups based on what you want. You may even stumble across a hybrid design that meets your own desires - and possibly learn more in the process. Then simply take that design and build a resonating chamber (fancy name for hollow wooden box) to place under it.

 

[T-Bird]

Hi.

I'll vote for easy.

Then again, that's pretty similar to a Scandinavian folk instrument that kids usually make in the upper secondary school wood-shop.

Regards
Sam

 

[Dirk Diggler]

Looks just like a Japanese Koto, all the little bridges are movable so tuning is quite easy. They are fun to play, I have a toy Koto that actually plays and sounds great. You could just buy the little bridges I would guess, or that wouldn't be that tough to make. Once you make the shape, then just slice into multiple bridges.

Dirk

 

[questionmark?]

It's similar to the japanese koto as dirk said, you can make amazing things with this instrument check this video: it's Lateralus from Tool covered by a koto orchestra!
Sorry for not answering the question but i think that this video will make you crazy to built one of those!!

ps: oh! and they are bass kotos too!

 

[Beej]

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