The soundboard in a harpsichord, also known as the belly or table is constructed from spruce panels joined together. As in other stringed instruments it serves 3 main functions:
- It acts as a diaphragm that sets the surrounding air into motion creating sound waves
- Vibrating in sympathy with one of a number of natural resonances
- It supports the bridges (or nuts for a virginal): the structures over which the strings pass on their way from hitch pin rail to tuning pins.