I have designed a ‘lead tapping pencil' to help eliminate much of the higher frequency response to tap tones on violin parts so you can more accurately hear the fundamental part of the tap tone spectrum for adjustments. It is basically a solid lead casting with fins to further remove overtones. It weighs 75 grams and makes tap tuning possible for luthiers (such as myself) who would otherwise not be able to isolate the fundamental frequency of the tap tone necessary for this kind of work; the basic shape is shown in the accompanying photograph.
I recommend that two tapping tools be used so you can tap on a second area immediately after the first so that the ear can hear differences. (You can contact me about providing a pair for you, with a satisfaction guarantee.) Such a tool can make a tap tone adjustment, otherwise difficult to hear, audible and straightforward. Without such a tool you may find yourself unable to consistently pick out the desired fundamental part of the tap tone spectrum--see tap tone sound charts above-- which is essential for success.
The dimensions of these lead tapping pencils are as follows:
  • Length: 4 1/4"
  • Outside diameter of fins: 3/8"
  • Outside diameter of central core: 3/16" * Outside diameter of top cap: 3/4"
  • Cast out of lead with a weight of 75 Gr. (25 grams is in the top cap and helps to further deaden the overtones.)
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... A small leather pad is glued to bottom point of tool (1/32" to 1/16" thick) with hide glue.
... (This leather pad helps filter out unwanted overtones as well as protecting delicate surfaces.)
...If you would like me to send you detailed instructions on how to make these for yourself, just e-mail me.
...Two low toned wooden pencils can work well too. Try and pick out two with the same tap tone.
When doing tap tone testing, work in a quiet room with good acoustics. Only the most gentle tap is necessary for our tap tuning purposes.
Figure Three


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