What gauge copper wire for bridles?

[bob Salter]

What gauge wire should I be using for reed bridles?

Bob

[Barry Say]

I use 25 thou diameter obtained from old electric cable. I think the optimum size depends on the hardness of the copper.

Copper in wire form can be made more flexible than in former times.

Barry

[bob Salter]

Thanks I was stuck for a bit there but I found some florists wire and it will do for now.

What would cause a bad squeak in bottom g(F) only. its quite a nice reed otherwise.

Bob

[Barry Say]

What would cause a bad squeak in bottom g(F) only. its quite a nice reed otherwise.

As a rule, leaks cause squeaks. The leaks can be in pads, reed or fingers and they all add up. A hard reed is more susceptible than a soft one, but softening the reed doesn't cure the problem it just makes it hide and you end up with an inferior tone.

How many keys?

Barry

[bob Salter]

Its that dave burleigh 7 key chanter you saw when I was down. The reed that was in it gave up so Ive made some new ones.

Bob

[andymay]

Hi Bob,

I'd suggest checking the edges in the top half of the reed. If they are too thick the reed will squeak and be a bit hard to blow probably.

My own preference is that in the upper half of the cane the edges are not really thicker than the middle, although in the lower half toward the bridle i generally go for a nice big U shape.

Hope that helps

A