MvdE - Posted - 02/24/2009:  01:08:20

I've recently bought an Amistar Tricone Resophonic. Wonderful instrument, but I would like to experiment with string gauges , adjusting the neck et cetera. Surfing on internet as well as warnings by the salesman scared me off, however. I am looking for information about customizing tricones, and would appreciate any suggestion.

Kindly,

Michiel van der Ent
Amsterdam

Brad Bechtel - Posted - 02/24/2009:  09:08:42

What sort of customization are you looking to do? What sort of warnings did the salesman give you? These guitars should sound great by themselves without modification.

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MvdE - Posted - 02/24/2009:  09:48:00

Well, I understand that the cones are in a delicate equilibrum, which is held in check by the strings as well. Adjusting the neck, or using either lighter or heavier strings, might cause irrepairable damage to the cones. It is a great sounding guitar indeed, but I would like to be able to change strings and action without having to rely on a luthier.

Kindly,

Michiel van der Ent

Slideman1939 - Posted - 02/24/2009:  09:51:27

Amistar tri-cones are well built.But so is National and some others. Tri cone hardware is unique but you have the option of experimenting with different cones.I wouldn't suggest a National cone replacement, because if you liked that tone you would have bought a National tri-cone in the first place. Paul Beard (Resophonic Outfitters) does have tri cone replacement cones.the only two remaining areas to tinker with are string guages and alternative tunings (like variations of "D" tuning, etc. It's hard to experiment and tinker when you are already starting off with instrument perfection.you don't have the option of baritone scale vs. regular scale ( like National Co. offers) because amistar deosn't do that. Try to play (somebody else's) tri-cone with Beard cones in it--to judge how different it is from the amistar cones and whether the tone difference justifies replacing the original cones.

robert murphy - Posted - 02/24/2009:  19:34:37

I just got a set of E tuning strings from Elderly for my National tricone that sound great. I enjoy different tunings and I will often switch tunings on the same guitar for a different sound. You need to research string tension and pay attention to which gauges will not over stress your instrument. Also be aware that the core diameter of wound strings can have a profound effect on tension. Try to stay under 30 lbs per string which translates to 180 total max.

Rockabilly BoB.