Balsa Violin 2

Doug Martin, who builds ocean-going rowing shells, also designs unusual violins, in this case building a prototype out of balsa -- essentially inside out... For New York Times article on this and other unusual designs, visit:
http://bit.ly/nytInstruments

Category:

Music

Tags:

• violin
• design
• music
• musical instruments
• luthiery

[mushroomz88]

For balsa, this is some beautiful tone. I guess the light wood vibrates better under the high frequencies. Kinda odd how people will pay so much money for a violin with top quality tonewoods, yet the same kind of result can be achieved with something you find at the craft store.

[TyrannyInOil]

i wanna put syrup on that thing and eat it!!!!!

[boomer290]

Warm sound

[chainduck]

I bought a length of some very clear light wood called Manguba some years ago...with the intent of using it for a Qin soundboard. I'm guessing it might work even better for a smaller instrument like a violin. It seems about the same density as balsa. Great work...thanks for the inspiration!

[nicodanger13]

With balsa i could make a better and nicer violin than that.. Come on, Doug.. that's the first attempt, isn't it?

[masicklazik]

@mushroomz88 but it does not mean it will be durable over the years and that it will survive changes in temperature and humidity without imploding or exploding.

[melonwithice]

sounds pretty good actually

[fluteking100]

@mushroomz88 dementions can be just as or even more important then the wood choice

[Dogaradodia]

Certified Intergalactic! Now, you have to deal with aesthetics. Thanks for the idea! :-)

[bachiano1]

Dear Mr Martin

What type of balsa do you use and where can I get some to experiment with?

Thanks