How To String Up An Kay Archtop

BANJOVIMD · #1 10-30-2011, 06:07 PM

I recently restrung the archtop guitar but put the strings differently than when I bought it (pic) as i was informed by a guitar repair guy to do it this way. (Under the tailpiece) Instead of over the tail pice (pic)

but since doing this the tailpiece has begun to warp up. Which is the right way??

BANJOVIMD · #2 10-31-2011, 04:37 AM

Anyone??

Drumbler · #3 10-31-2011, 06:42 AM

That doesn't look good. The way you had it strung originally is definitely incorrect. The tailpiece is not supposed to lay on the body like that.

The tailpiece metal looks fatigued and weakened.

I think you will have to replace the tailpiece.

mr. beaumont · #4 10-31-2011, 06:55 AM

It's been a while since i've seen a tailpiece just like that one...can you post a picture from the front of the tailpiece--I think you might both have it wrong...

usually there's a little "channel" the string goes through the whole tailpiece...but this might be differen...

jmstritt · #5 10-31-2011, 10:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mr. beaumont

usually there's a little "channel" the string goes through the whole tailpiece...but this might be differen...

+1

The string should go in through the back and feed through the, "Channel," and the come out the front of the tailpiece. It is possible that those retainers broke off over the years or something like that. You in all likelyhood need a new tailpiece.