Disc Adjustments on Pedal Harps
How do I know that I need to adjust the disc in the first place?
One reason for adjusting a disc is to fix a buzz. With buzzes, you always
want to rule out several other possibilities before taking your screwdriver to
the disc. Here’s a checklist to help locate common buzz culprits:
1. Examine strings to see if they are unraveling and need to be
changed.
2. Check string knots to make sure that they’re not too long and
vibrating against the inside of the soundboard.
3. Look for loose screws in your pedal caps (Lyon & Healy and
Salvi) and tighten if needed.
4. Move your harp to a different room to determine if you can still
hear the buzz. Sympathetic vibrations made by metal music
stands, loose paper clips, or air vents can create illusive buzzes
that need to be ruled out.
Another reason to adjust a disc is to correct intonation. While playing a
piece, you may notice that the string is no longer producing a true half step
when the pedal is engaged in the natural or sharp positions. This becomes
most noticeable when 3rd, 5th, and 8ve intervals sound out of tune. Of
course, if several strings are in need of adjustment, you need a complete
regulation by a qualified harp technician.
Aren’t all discs the same?
Indeed, they are not. Camac, for example, developed their own discs that
differ from what you may have seen in harp maintenance class at school.
Also, the discs on a Camac action turn in opposing directions - another
point to consider before taking out your screwdriver and getting to work.