Gretsch Lapsteel

[DaveC]

I have a Gretsch Lapsteel which I have not played for ages as I am having problems with decent resonance on the upper frets, especially 10th to 12th. It sounds dead on mainly 3 & 4th string.
I have changed strings and have tried different brands to no avail.
I have noticed that the strings are cutting into the wood from the through body holes though thus changing the angle of slope, the bridge looks ok but open to suggestions.
I have seen on US forums where players have inserted Stainless steel grommets into the holes to stop this cutting but don't know if this was for a similar reason.
Anyone have any ideas please as I would love to get back to playing it again.
thanks, Dave

[DaveC]

Sorry all, I meant sustain, not resonance.

[Tony Russell Davis]

You can buy little inserts for "through body strung" Fender guitars; or just pop some small washers on the strings? That would at least get you going again.

[DaveC]

thanks Tony, will try that for a start.
Dave

[mick hearn]

I've searched around on the net and can't find a pic of what is under the hood on those. Personally I would be looking towards the bridge. The bridge and nut on my Remington is round stock of stainless steel and seems to sustain forever all over the neck even in to the high register. I also have a George Boards which has round stock brass rod of large diameter and same result with that.

I also have one of Shakey's home made keyless 10 strings and the tuning mechanism is behind the bridge. As such the strings come off the rear of the bridge at all sorts of angles and lengths and appears to make no difference between strings.

[DaveC]

thanks Mick.
Gretsch-Electro-Steel-Pickup-Bridge/dp/B07L7BS7F3
The bridge is a steel wedge as per the site above and similar in profile to the nut, though chunkier.
It is fitted close to the through body holes so the angle from the bridge to the holes is very steep even without the strings cutting into the wood.
Dave