pegbox

The pegbox is a component of violin-family instruments, located at the end of the neck just below the scroll. It houses the tuning pegs and provides the mechanism by which string tension and pitch are adjusted. The pegbox forms the upper portion of the neck and extends from the scroll down to the nut, with the pegs seated in angled holes.

Anatomy and function: Strings are wound around the tuning pegs inside the pegbox, and the pegs are turned to tighten or loosen the strings. The strings exit the pegs and pass over the nut, then continue along the fingerboard. The boundary between the pegbox and the scroll marks the head of the instrument, while the scroll is a decorative continuation above the pegbox.

Construction and materials: On violins, violas, cellos, and basses, the pegbox is typically carved from maple as an integral part of the neck. It contains the peg holes and is shaped to fit friction pegs or, in some modern instruments, geared tuners. The nut at the lower end guides string height into the fingerboard. In some instruments, the pegbox may be built to accommodate geared tuning systems rather than traditional friction pegs.

Maintenance and issues: Pegs must fit snugly in their holes to hold tuning. Worn pegholes, peg slippage, or changes in humidity can cause tuning instability. Repairs may involve reaming or re-factoring holes, adjusting peg fit, or, in severe cases, neck or pegbox restoration.