[pianotech] Re universal strings?

[Joseph Garrett]

Keith,
Please don't consider my comments as being negative towards Universal
Strings, I use a lot of Universals. <G> However, I had mixed success until
I started getting the cores closer. I even have a chart that shows the
sizes of what should be and  what it really is. Then, along came John
Rhodes. <G> I posed the question to him in regards to the difference
between the round "original" string core shape and the hexagonal shape of
the Universal core. He came up with, yet, another chart and formula to get
even closer. I have had very good success since then. The charts reside on
the inside of my Univerasal String case lid.<G> That has been my
experience. Although, different from yours, we both use them with good
results, for what they are and what they are used on.
Best Regards,
Joe 

Joe Garrett, R.P.T.
Captain of the Tool Police
Squares R I


> [Original Message]
> From: Mr. Mac's <tune-repair at allegiance.tv>
> To: <joegarrett at earthlink.net>; <pianotech at ptg.org>
> Date: 2/4/2011 9:18:56 PM
> Subject: Re: [pianotech] Re universal strings?
>
> Joe,
>
> You don't have to feel bad about saying anything
>    concerning this subject. I fully expect hearing
>    uncomplimentary remarks concerning Universal strings.
>
> I have installed many Universal strings over the years with numerous
success.
> So what others say doesn't really matter against the direct experience
>    I have had with them.
>
> I don't ever measure the core because there is no similarity
>     in the cores of Universal strings and manufactures strings.
> One is flat and round, the other is squarish.
> Because of that a good core match is not possible.
>
> I stand by what I shared with Lance.
>
> Keith
>
> On Feb 4, 2011, at 10:55 PM, Joseph Garrett wrote:
>
> > 
> > Keith said:
> > "Lance,
> >  
> > The .144 will work, but may not blend in with its neighbors.
> > Better to have one with the overall diameter.
> > Don't be concerned with the core.
> >  
> > I have one if you need."
> >  
> > Keith,
> > I hate to say it, but the core match is critical! Lack of multiple core
sizes to choose from is the reason why techs have not had a great deal of
success with the universal strings. The core is THE criteria for
inharmonicity matches. Yes, we should strive to match the outer wrap, but a
few thousands one way or another, with a good core match, will not make for
a poor replacement. Go figger.<G>
> > Joe
> >  
> >  
> > Joe Garrett, R.P.T.
> > Captain of the Tool Police
> > Squares R I
> >  
> >