where can I get resonator cones?

[rob bryon]

hi, where can a daft old thing acquire resonator cones, preferably brass or copper? mini cones, might also be good....ps, is it necessary to build a sound well or can ya just scew that thing or silicone it to the soundboard? will this affect the sound etc?....

[The Phrygian Kid]

From this guy http://www.cigarboxnation.com/profile/OldLowe

[Slowpaw Steve T]

Chickenbone John sells good reso cones, they include detailed fitting instructions too..

http://www.chickenbonejohn.com/

http://www.cigarboxnation.com/profile/ChickenboneJohn?xg_source=pro...

[ChickenboneJohn]

Rob, building a reso using a pukka uke cone is not a simple thing - you need to build a soundwell and understand how to set the action and intonation bang-on, otherwise you'll have problems. It's not immensely difficult, but it does require some understanding of the geometry of the neck/body/action, and also requires a degree of precision with your construction. I've not used the  Old Lowe type cones, but they are  quite  different to the classic national-pattern uke cone.

At the moment, I've only got a limited number of cones and coverplates in stock which I'm holding onto for my personal use..sorry.

[Randy S. Bretz]

Lowe cones are cheap and an easy install......

[Mark Lindsay]

I'll second the vote for Republic Guitars. Frank is a great guy, and a pleasure to talk to. Republic's Uke reso cone kit is a 6" kit that come with the aluminum cone, chrome cover and mounting screws, Rosewood biscuit, and Maple saddle. They cost $55 for the kit and are very good quality. Just my opinion, but I think they give National a good run for the money...

http://republicguitars.com/parts-supplies/ukulele-reso-kit

[Uncle John]

I will second, third, fourth or whatever that Lowe cones are cheap and easy to install.  Lowe is nice to deal with.  

A lot would depend on the look you are after.   A CBJ or one like Wes showed might suit you better if you like the look more.

[RTZGUITARS]

[Uncle John]

RTZ has a good point.  The cat bowls work pretty well and they fit the 'found stuff' for parts tradition.

[Patrick Curley]

Quarterman are generally considered the next best thing to National. Beard cones have a good rep too.

[Michael Fred Johnson]

Woof !

[rob bryon]

hi guys, thanks for all the helpful hints.....love this site....re:cats bowls, the only ones I can find around here seem to be cheap stainless steel.....is that gonna work?

[Michael Fred Johnson]

A cat bowl is probably better for a three string, it's more in proportion.On this one I got the sums wrong so the bridge isn't in the centre of bowl.Still sounds good though.