by Diceman » Mon May 19, 2008 5:53 pm
ok2go,
Good idea to tape the strings except for the upper third, paper masking tape is good. You should then tighten the strings to give you the snare sound you want, tighter gives short 'rattle', longer ....... It also has a lot to do with how and where you hit it, so technique is paramount.
I dont loosen any front screws, but some players loosen only the top corners, any others will damage the bass tone. The aim is to get a 'slap/ cross stick' sound when you hit the corners, try it and have fun, a great instrument.
suave
Diceman