Soundpost

Soundpost (Fr.: âme; Ger.: Stimmstock; It.: anima), dowel of Swiss pine, spruce, or other softwood inserted upright in the body of viols, violins, etc., set close to the right foot of the bridge, with the grain running at right angles to that of the plates. It serves to transmit the vibrations from belly to back. Its position is highly critical, as even a minute change will materially alter the tone. The soundpost is, or should be, kept in place solely by pressure of the strings, fitting the…