Tuning an Autoharp

[Tom Cole]

Dave,

Autoharps are very easy to tune. I used to tune them just by matching
pitches with the piano. But if you use the SAT, I would do it without
stretch. Inharmonicity is probably close to nil. You can use the
customer's key or a harpsichord wrench. You will need to tune it two or
three times at least to get it to stabilize at standard pitch. You
should have it sounding great in about 15 minutes.

Tom Cole

DGPEAKE@AOL.COM wrote:
> 
> Dear Friends and Collegues,
> 
> This Friday I am tuning one of my regular clients piano. Today she
> called and
> asked if I could also tune her autoharp which is 1/2 step flat. I have
> never
> tuned one so I am asking for some advice assuming some of you (Wim?)
> have
> done this before. She has the tool for it.
> 
> 1. I would guess it would need a pitch raise. How much harmonic
> stretch is
> involved if any?
> 
> 2. Using my SAT 3 should I perform an FAC stretch or keep it at zero
> cents
> and tune?
> 
> 3. How long should it take?
> 
> 4. Should I attempt the job at all? If so, any other hints you can
> pass along?
> 
> I am not an autoharp technician (AT) and do not belong to the Autoharp
> 
> Technicians Guild (ATG-if there is such an organization). Your
> professional
> advice will be greatly appreciated.
> 
> Dave Peake, RPT
> Portland Chapter
> Oregon City, OR
> www.davespianoworks.locality.com