Soundboards

[Delwin D Fandrich]

----- Original Message -----
From: Tom Robinson <tomnjan@bellsouth.net>
To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
Sent: April 20, 2000 2:13 PM
Subject: RE: Soundboards


> As an amateur guitar builder for the last 19 years, I know a little
> about soundboards.  I'm sure some of what I have learned applies as well
> to piano soundboards.  For example, some of the best sounding guitars
> have a slightly arched top.  The arch is created by gluing  arched
> braces to a flat plate of wood.  In all my experience with guitars, I
> have never heard a guitar with a laminated top which sounded as good as
> one of the same quality (otherwise) with a solid wood top.  I am curious
> about one thing though.  High quality arch top guitars (i.e. DeAngelico,
> Bennedetto, etc.) always have a carved top (rather than heat pressed
> laminate).  The arched top gives the guitar more volume and projection,
> when compared to a "flat top".  So, is it possible that a piano
> soundboard with a carved crown might sound better than an otherwise
> equal piano with a molded or atmospheric crowned soundboard?  Has anyone
> ever tried it?
>
> Tom Robinson
> East Tennessee - just curious.......
>
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Apples and kiwis.

The guitar string tension and string bearing is considerably less than is
found on the piano soundboard.  Also, consider the sizes involved -- i.e.,
the distance from the string bridge to the surrounding supporting structure.

The amount of downforce used in the piano would quickly crush any soundboard
panel not supported by substantial ribbing.

Del