1/6th rule vs. bridge position?

[Deb]

Is the 1/6th rule more important than the perfect 330/55? My bridge would be 1/8" behind the f-hole notch if I placed it at 330.

Please advise. I have to play Palm Sunday and am having those "honking" noises.

Everyone is being so kind to help with these problems.

Old dog--Deb

[Paul]

: Is the 1/6th rule more important than the perfect 330/55? My bridge would be 1/8" behind the f-hole notch if I placed it at 330.

: Please advise. I have to play Palm Sunday and am having those "honking" noises.

: Everyone is being so kind to help with these problems.

: Old dog--Deb

Where does the 1/6 th rule come from? What book can I go to and find numerical values for string inst. set up details?

Paul

[DougH]

Hi Deb,

What actually matters is that the afterlength is such that it vibrates at two octaves above the next string up.

The 1/6th rule is the mathematical description if all was ideal.

The 330/55 rule is just the 1/6th applied to the "standard" nut-to-bridge string length.

If your nut-to-bridge is different, calculate the 1/6th to get a starting point. You may have to make fine adjustments until you get it right.

Note that the afterlength on the E string doesn't fit the concept ... there's no B string! I think that's why add-on fine tuners for the E-string have never posed a problem.

Have fun,

Doug

[Deb]

Thank you, Doug. I will re-evaluate the positions and lengths.

Paul had a question about reference material for these things. Is there a good book?

Deb

[DougH]

Deb,

I am not that versed in the violin construction/set-up literature.

However, Mr. Victor is very up on James Beament's "The Violin Explained" (ISBN 0198166230, $65), and when Mr. Victor speaks ... I listen.

From what I've seen of some descriptions, I certainly would like a copy!

Have fun,

Doug