A look at Lowden braces - Part 1

[Dave Bagwill]

Here is pic1. Some things I notice: First, all that a-frame business above the X; does not look that different from 'normal' except for the soundhole reinforcements above the upper transverse brace. I wonder if a headblock that had an extension that met and glued to the UTB would be as successful?
Second, the x-brace is high and thin even above the x, which goes against most of the advice given wherever you read about it.
Third, Lowden treats the area, that normally is braces by the little finger braces, as a tonal opportunity. I think. Those long tone braces that run outside of and parallel to the lower x-braces are also high and thin and appear to be treated as tone bars, not just little braces to prevent cracks in the top. I don't know if they are inlet to the kerfing or not.
Fourth, three tone braces instead of two, made possible because the bridge is pinless and allows for a smaller bridge plate? I really wonder about the pinless bridge from a tonal standpoint - any input from you fellas? Three tone braces seems like too much, but in cooperation with the smaller bridge plate may actually be necessary?
He does use a cap at the x.

Any comments? There is no doubt Lowdens are some of the finest sounding guitars on planet Earth, so I feel justified in spending some time trying to figure out why.

[Tim Benware]

How does he shape those braces hanging from the wall like that?

[Dave Bagwill]

I thought everyone did it that way! Though admittedly, when I nail the top onto the barn door it gives me a little twinge of anxiety..