A thought experiment

[Dave Bagwill]

I remember when you built one of those, Ken, and that was probably what got me thinking about it.
It seems like a worthwhile project.

[Ken Hundley]

I agree....I had some great thoughts about it, but was less than scientific about my approach. As I mentioned, I tried too many thingso n the same instrument, and am not clear what might have been a positive and what wasn't. Will take a few more attempts, simplifying what will depart from the norm.

[John Parchem]

Ken,

It sure looks like a cool guitar!

[John Parchem]

Over under Bridge -- to my ear there is something missing? Pretty thin, where's the resonance?

Sure has a clean sound, but I agree while strumming it seemed rather thin.

[Dave Bagwill]

As long as we are just kicking around ideas, how about this one?
There is no 'X', but if the upper braces are notched into the bridge fairly close to the center line, wouldn't the rocking of the bridge be fairly unhampered?
I was thinking (dangerous) that since each brace is in direct contact with the bridge, the bridge movement would be transmitted directly to all parts of the top.

[John Parchem]

I am not sure I can evaluate that pattern my fear would be that it could not support a steel string load. Maybe you can start reading\looking at Kasha style braces as that pattern is starting to go there.

[Dave Bagwill]

Forgot to mention that a CF rod would be inlet into head and tail blocks, taking the string pressure off the top.
I'm not really into trying these patterns; but by thinking about them and getting feedback, the whole bracing thing gets clearer. Just thought experiments, really.