Because the bracing of the new basses is so experimental, I need to load test the top to test deflection under string tension. To do this, I made a dummy top out of the real material, braced it, and mounted it in a frame that simulates the perimeter of the body and neck block.
I […]

Instruments, Luthierie/Guitar Building, Acoustic Bass Guitars | No Comments »

I’ve got the laminate materials for the first three basses, and I’ve settled on a bracing design for the tops. The next step will be to start building the body mold and side template so I can start making some sawdust. I’ve been holding off on this step for a while because I […]

Instruments, Acoustic Bass Guitars | 1 Comment »

One of the best characteristics of a brace for an acoustic guitar top is a high stiffness-to-weight ratio. The less mass the top and braces have, the easier it is for the string’s energy to set it in motion and create sound. At the same time, the top and braces need to be […]

Instruments, Luthierie/Guitar Building, Acoustic Bass Guitars | 3 Comments »

Here’s a preview of the next ABG design in CAD showing the assymetric body profile and port tube. So far everything’s coming together for a run of three of these basses - one fretless 6-string for a customer and two 4-strings to keep for stock/marketing. The 6 will have an ebony fingerboard and […]

Instruments, Acoustic Bass Guitars | 4 Comments »

OK, so it’s not a bass! I built this as a Christmas present for my wife a few years ago - she always wanted me to make something for her, but doesn’t play, so this seemed the perfect choice. You can’t play a wrong note!
The design is based on the Strumstick, though my tuner layout […]

Instruments | No Comments »