MARIMBA TUNING
How to Order the Tuning Service
​STEP 1 Contact Chris Banta - (818) 599-8410 / chris@ccbanta.com
Be prepared to discuss the following:
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Instrument type (Manufacturer and Model Number, if known)
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Bar material (wood, metal, composite)
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Number of notes
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Describe specific problems and concerns, and overall instrument condition
We'll need to determine the type of work that will be required, bar delivery logistics, estimation of costs (including shipping), completion date, and any other details.
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Payment invoices are managed via PayPal or Venmo.
STEP 2 Remove Bars from the Instrument Frame
Tuning jobs require only the bars themselves. Generally, the bars may be lifted off of the frame with the mounting cord still intact. If the mounts (sometimes referred to as "stand-offs") contain closed holes, then the bars will need to be unstrung so they can be removed.
If problems are suspected with the frame or resonators, we should discuss them as well.
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Once the arrangements for the work have been agreed upon, the shop's address will be provided for the shipping.
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STEP 3 Drop-Off or Ship the Bars
Local Clients may choose to drop off the bars. Chris Banta’s shop is in Thousand Oaks (CA) which is on the boundary between the Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.
Clients living in those areas may choose to deliver the bars in person. The address will be provided at the time of the phone call.
Note: The client is welcome to bring the entire instrument. A general assessment of the instrument's condition will be performed at no cost. Please set up an appointment.
Shipping is also an option if the client desires. (See Distant Clients below)
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Distant Clients will need to ship the bars both TO and FROM the shop and is the responsibility of the client.
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Protecting the Bars - Bars should be placed in a box with protective material, so they can’t damage each other during transit. (Suggest placing a towel on top of the bars while they’re still strung up and lying flat. Then, roll them up like a sleeping bag. For bars that are separate, small groups of bars can be wrapped in newspaper then placed in the box with foam or bubble-pak between the groups.)
For a lot of bars, it might be better to spread the load and reduce the weight by using smaller boxes. If using multiple boxes, then each box should be numbered. For example, if all bars fit into two boxes then number each box as follows: 1 of 2 and 2 of 2.
The same box and protective material will be reused for the return trip. The client is responsible for all shipping charges.
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STEP 4 How long Does Tuning, Repair, Refinishing, or Replacement Take?
Upon receipt:
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Tuning only - 1 week or less
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Repair - 1 week or less
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Refinishing and tuning take - 2 weeks or less.
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Replacement - 2 weeks or less, depending on the quantity.
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STEP 5 Job Completed | Client Contacted | Payment
Drop-Off/Local Clients:
Arrangements should be made to pickup the bars.
Important Note: Bars not picked up or shipped within 30 days will be sold to cover shop costs. Please call to discuss!!!
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Shipment/Distant Clients:
Upon completion of the job, the bars will be re-packaged, and shipped back to the client.
Payment: The balance of the invoice (and if any applicable shipping costs) is required to be paid (through PayPal or Venmo) prior to release or shipping of the bars.