FAQ
Some Frequently Asked Question about MILLTONE Fine tunable Steel Tongue Drums
1. Are the tuning magnets included?
Yes, all MILLTONE instruments ship with all necessary fine tuning magnets in place and the instrument is fine tuned within +/- .02 cents before packing and shipping. The tuning is very stable and no further adjustments should be required. However, the magnets can be moved to adjust the tuning should it become necessary over the years.
2. Can the fine tuning magnets be used to change the note?
No, the fine tuning magnets have a small range for fine tuning only. Magnetic tuning pads can be added to lower any note one or two semitones if desired. These can be easily made from magnetic sign vinyl. Simply cut out the shape of the tongue with scissors and place on top of the tongue you wish to lower. Notes can only be lowered by adding a magnetic tuning pad, they can not be made higher.
3. Can I have graphics added to a plain drum I win on eBay after the auction has ended?
Yes, you can request custom vinyl graphics be added after you win an eBay auction. You must place your request via email message at least 24 hours before the auction ends. If you win, $25 will be added to your invoice in addition to your winning bid. Graphics can usually be applied and your instrument shipped the same day payment is received.
4. Can I send you a picture of the graphics I would like and have you make them for me?
Yes, simply send an email with your design. When selecting an image remember it will be cut out of a single color sheet of vinyl so line drawings, clip art, tattoo art, and silhouettes usually work the best. Keep it simple for a great custom look.
5. I don’t really like bidding on eBay, can I buy directly from you?
Yes, there is a Buy Direct option the price is $499 with FREE Priority mail shipping. If you are a music professional or music therapist ask about our special discounts.
6. I have been trying to win a MILLTONE but always get outbid during the last seconds of the auction, what can I do?
Use eBay’s automatic bidding feature. http://pages.ebay.com/help/buy/automatic-bidding.html You can place your maximum bid at the beginning of the auction and let eBay bid for you up to your maximum. You don’t even have to watch the end of the auction and will be sent an email when you win. For example the starting bid is $249.99, so you place your maximum bid of $350. You will then be the high bidder at $249.99. If there are no other bidders you will win the instrument for $249.99. If someone else bids $275, they will immediately be outbid by you, automatically and you would still win the instrument for $280. Even if someone else bids $350 during the last seconds of the auction, you would still be the winner for $350 because you place your bid first. By placing your maximum bid in early once you will never have to worry about being outbid by a few dollars during the last seconds and not have time to place another bid.
7. Can I request a special color and graphics combination and have it listed on eBay?
Yes, just send a email with your request milltonedrums@att.net and we will let you know when your request is listed.
8. Can I select graphics from different instruments and combine them on a single instrument?
Yes, you can pick from any of the designs in the photo history pages and have them combined in any way you like.
9. How long will it take to get my MILLTONE?
We usually ship the same day payment is received. We always ship via USPS Priority mail 2-3 day service in the US and 6-10 day service international. Remember there can be delays in customs and you must pay VAT, or import taxes. These taxes must be paid in your country in order to pick up your MILLTONE.
10. Is there a support group I can join to ask questions and share ideas?
Here is a link to the milltonedrums yahoo group
11. Do you make different tunings?
No, all MILLTONE instruments have the same Dm Hexatonic tuning called MILLTONE “Standard 8″. This tuning has been found to be the best in terms of Range, Harmonics, Resonance, and Overtones for this instrument.
12. Is it hard to learn how to play a MILLTONE? I have no previous musical experience.
No, you do not need any musical training to play a MILLTONE. Just a quick tap with your fingertip, like you are touching a hot iron will produce a lovely tone.
13. Do MILLTONE drums come with a case?
N0 case is provided because there are so many different types of cases available from local drum shops, discount stores and the internet, we leave case selection up to the individuals. This keeps cost down. Many use snare drum, or frame drum cases like the Galaxy models from Humes and Berg. Also you can use a backpack, drawstring bag, or duffel bag. Carry on luggage is also an option. Whatever you choose be sure the inner surface will not scratch the paint, or place the MILLTONE in a flannel pillow case before putting it in the carry case.
14. What is your email address?
Thank You, and Stay Tuned…
