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3 string ukulele-like instrument — image 1
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3 string ukulele-like instrument

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I designed a new instrument that is meant to be easy to learn and you can play or tune it however you like.

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Updated at source:

Model information

Category
Music
License
Creative Commons — Attribution

This version will not be updated anymore. If you want the most recent version, check version 4 out here: https://www.printables.com/model/343896-playable-3-string-ukulele-like-instrument-v4

I designed a new instrument that is meant to be easy to learn and you can play or tune it however you like. This will remain open source so you can customize it however you see fit. It is the size of a soprano ukulele. I'm experimenting with open C tuning. I plan on making this modular so you can replace the neck with a fretless one or you can swap out the body and it becomes a violin-like instrument. Now with optional fretless and diatonic necks.

Added a demonstration video: 

Video comparing PETG and PLA with my instrument:
 



Parts list: Chrome Tuning Pegs Machine Heads https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EQ2ABD4

You can use other ukulele tuning pegs if you want.

I bought fender nylon strings, but you can use ukulele strings or experiment with another type of string. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003B07GXA

The strings need tied on at the bottom like on a ukulele. The head-stock has 5 holes so you can play this instrument left or right handed.

Update: I've added some more wacky bodies, including a crescent moon body, heart body, and a star shape. I cannot print some of these bodies because my Prusa Mini+ is not large enough. I will include a .step file soon.

Update: I created 5 more bodies that you can use. The model you see in the video is model B, which stands for Balalaika. I've also made a circle body (model C), an oval shape body (model O), a guitar-like body (model G), a V shape body (model V), and a body that looks like strat (model S). I tried the model G body and it looks nice, but I used a little too much glue.

Update 3/22/2022: I've added an option to convert model B (balalaika body) into a V shape body (model V) if your printer is too small. I've included the file model_v_upgrade. Print two of the same file and glue them onto the bottom of the model B body. This part doesn't need a lot of infill. I also added a ukulele style body (model U).


I have also included a .step file of Model B. You can customize this however you want. If you move the nut or bridge, then you'll have to adjust the fret spacing.

Update: 4/4/2022: I have created a fretless and diatonic neck. The fretless neck has a finger guide to make playing a bit easier. I will upload the diatonic neck after printing and testing it out, but the fretless neck works great.

Update 4/5/2022: I have tested out my diatonic neck. It functions correctly.

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