Infos, Hot Takes and Science

I'm Right, You're Wrong - Volume VII

The electric guitar is not the exception to acoustic physics. The string vibrates, the wood responds, the pickup faithfully reports — Faraday's law makes no allowance for marketing categories. Volume VII on string-body coupling, modal frequencies, and the physics the industry decided to ignore.

A century after its invention, the archtop guitar is still built largely by 1930s rules. But the way players actually use the instrument has changed: studios, stages, planes, contemporary jazz contexts that demand more uniformity and less drama from the instrument. This article looks at three engineering moves boutique luthiers are making to bring the archtop into the present — and what is gained and lost when you do.

What role does wood actually play in shaping the tone of an electric guitar? This article unpacks decades of acoustic research, psychoacoustics, and measured data to separate myth from measurable fact. From damping and resonance to human hearing thresholds, we examine where tonewood matters—and where it doesn’t. Ideal for luthiers, players, and skeptics alike. No fluff, no dogma—just evidence.

Want your guitar to play smoother and sound better? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Truss Rods and Neck Relief—from how they work to adjusting them safely. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or just curious, this luthier-approved article covers the essentials for better tone, action, and playability.

This in-depth guide explores everything you need to know about guitar and bass pots. Learn how different pot values, tapers, and types affect tone and functionality. Whether you're working with passive circuits or active electronics, this article covers the best options for volume, tone, and blend controls—with practical installation tips and insights into modern trends like smart pots.

A professional setup can make your guitar or bass feel like a whole new instrument — but there’s often confusion around what a setup actually does. This article breaks down what’s included in a setup, what improvements you can realistically expect, and where the limits lie. From action and intonation to pickup balance and tuning stability, we’ll cover how a setup works and how to communicate your preferences to get the most out of the process. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the world of lutherie, understanding this service will help you play better — and avoid disappointment.

What do strings actually do to your tone — and what does the marketing only claim they do? This deep dive separates the real from the folklore: where material and gauge genuinely matter, why most of what you feel is tension rather than tone, why the heavier-strings and coated-strings myths don't hold up, and the one variable that outweighs brand, alloy, and price combined — how fresh they are. For players, builders, and skeptics. No fluff, no dogma — just what the wire is doing.

Why Fretslots ? Fret slots are critical to a guitar’s performance, yet often overlooked. This article explores slotting techniques, common pitfalls, and why radiused fret slots are a superior choice for serious luthiers.