Can someone explain Kaufman position?

dr_bob · Post by **dr_bob** » Fri Jun 08, 2007 1:21 pm

I have a 375 Capri that needs an arm for the Kaufmann vibrola. In searching for pictures of other Capris with Kaufmanns (I want to have an arm fabricated) I've noticed that some have an "extension" tail piece (I don't have a knowledge of the correct terminology) while others don't.

Here's a picture of a 335 I "borrowed" from one of our member's websites. (I hope that wasn't violating a norm.) This Capri does not have this extension.

Now here's two pictures of Capris currently being offered on eBay. The first is a 335, the second is a 345 and both have this extension tail piece.

Could someone explain to me the difference between the two (technically why would a person choose one over the other) and if both types are factory? Thanks.

jingle_jangle · Post by **jingle_jangle** » Fri Jun 08, 2007 1:26 pm

Both are factory...I believe it has to do with the length of the various arms and how conveniently they fall to hand.

2ricks · Post by **2ricks** » Sat Jun 09, 2007 4:38 pm

take a look at this

http://www.winfieldvintage.com/parts/kaufmann-arm.html

they have other parts too such as plates for the front of a lightshow, converter combs, accent handles and much more.

jps · Post by **jps** » Sat Jun 09, 2007 4:48 pm

Can someone explain Kaufman position?

I can't find that position in the Kama Sutra!

charlyg · Post by **charlyg** » Sat Jun 09, 2007 4:51 pm

I know the "cough man!" position.

2ricks · Post by **2ricks** » Sat Jun 09, 2007 5:20 pm

take a look at this

http://www.winfieldvintage.com/parts/kaufmann-arm.html

they have other parts too such as plates for the front of a lightshow, converter combs, accent handles and much more.

jingle_jangle · Post by **jingle_jangle** » Sat Jun 09, 2007 8:34 pm

Winfield Vintage is AKA Adam Swapp AKA Chip Little, former member of this Forum.

Converter combs are rare items, true, with limited demand. I'm not sure if they are copyrighted. Accent handles are available from Rickenbacker at $30.00 each OEM. The Light Show lenses are commonly available on the open market, but there is very little demand, as I've also been selling 'em and have seen little interest in them (not that I'm complaining!).

rick_ovic · Post by **rick_ovic** » Sun Jun 10, 2007 1:36 pm

When I think of the "Kaufmann position" it's usually refers to that place where the bloody thing ends up, after I throw it in frustration!

Here's what my '59 335 MG Capri looked like before I removed it and added a standard trapeze tailpiece. At least the guitar stays in tune now

jwilli · Post by **jwilli** » Sun Jun 10, 2007 4:36 pm

I've always recommended removing the Kauffman and replacing it with a trapeze.

lyle_from_minneapolis · Sun Jun 10, 2007 5:11 pm

To answer the original question: I am sitting.

dr_bob · Post by **dr_bob** » Sun Jun 10, 2007 6:20 pm

Thanks for answering my question, Mark.

Now that we know what position Kaufman is in

, I'm trying to find a picture of a 365 or 375 capri with the Kaufmann arm on it AND that has the exact setup as this one below.

I want to have an arm fabricated but can't find a picture with this setup that includes the arm. Can someone post or email me a picture?

rick_ovic · Post by **rick_ovic** » Sun Jun 10, 2007 6:50 pm

Here ya go, Dr Bob

dr_bob · Post by **dr_bob** » Mon Jun 11, 2007 8:06 am

Thanks Darren. That arm doesn't even look functional. Wouldn't the rear of the arm be hitting the face of the guitar and scratching or digging into it?

The other pictures you sent me off line look much more reasonable/functional. Any one else have a photo?

ben_brown · Post by **ben_brown** » Mon Jun 11, 2007 11:01 am

If I'm not mistaken...the movement of the arm is from left to right and not up and down.
Please correct me ifn' I'm wrong.

ozover50 · Post by **ozover50** » Mon Jun 11, 2007 11:32 am

I think you're right, Ben..... to my knowledge the movement is up and down the face of the guitar rather that toward and away from it.