<HTML style="FONT-SIZE: x-small; FONT-FAMILY: MS Sans Serif"><HEAD> <META http-equiv=Content-Type content="text/html; charset=windows-1251"> <META content="MSHTML 6.00.2900.2963" name=GENERATOR></HEAD> <BODY> <P> <DIV> <DIV><FONT size=+0>According to a handout from Dr. Albert Sanderson, the ranges for "very low" to "very high" tension scales are:</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=+0>Monochords: 200 to 290 pounds</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=+0>Bichords: 160 to 235 pounds</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=+0>Trichords: 140 to 200 pounds</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3></FONT> </DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3>In my opinion, this would apply, ONLY, to modern instruments, as I've seen a much wider range, especially in Ancient instruments. Also, I suspect this is a "safe" range and not an "actual". The classic example would be The Mason & Hamlin 9', note 1, which is in the 300+ range. And it's at 70+% of it's breaking strength! Most of these have been "replaced" a few times.<G></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3>Regards,</FONT></DIV></DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>Joseph Garrett, R.P.T.</DIV> <DIV>Captain, Tool Police</DIV> <DIV>Squares R I</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <P></P></BODY></HTML>