Modular Fiddle Version 2

[David Perry]

Hi all,

The Modular Fiddle Version 2 is officially live! I am working on a blog post to highlight what has changed, as well as a video to (hopefully) show the difference in sound.

 

The thing to know is that V2 necks must be paired with V2 bodies. V1 necks will not fit on V2 bodies, nor V1 bodies on V2 necks. I made a change to the neck joint to improve assembly (added draft), and also improved the aesthetic of the joint slightly. 

You can download the latest design package here or check out the latest build file in the Fusion 360 project (email me and I'll add you).

The body is designed to be printed with carbon fiber reinforced filament, but may be printed in standard PLA. When printed with CFPLA and the right settings, body weights are down to 250g, and the sound of the instrument is substantially improved. Read about print settings here. 

With changes to the f holes, body size, and volume, I lowered the A0 resonant frequency down to the industry standard, which is a part of what gives the lower tones a boost on the latest V2 body (V2-R7). Overall the body is louder, more responsive, and has especially improved timbre on the G string.

I am not yet confident in the durability of the body. The ribbing is extremely thin! In fact I just cracked the ribbing on one a few minutes ago, so I will be making some changes to improve ribbing strength...

That said, there's a lot of interest in the Modular Fiddle at the moment and I want folks to take advantage of the V2 improvements, even if it means they have to print a new body in a few months. 

I hope you'll all consider making a new Modular Fiddle! I'll post the blog post, video, and other supporting documentation for the V2 build on this thread. 

Best,

David