Ray; The 1098 is a rather problematic instrument, as your question indicates. While they take much more care than the usual instrument during tuning/service they can be worked with. The numerous puzzling false beats inherent in the instument make it a bear to tune and we 'probably' ought to count on two 'full' tunings each time we service one. Pin/string setting on the 1098 is, in my opinion, among the most difficult of any instrument. Anything that you can do to improve string movement/rendering will be helpful. Paying particular attention to hammer position/technique will also pay dividends. BTW, don't "rassle" with em, they weigh more than you! :-) Jim Bryant (FL)
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