Acoustic Guitar Construction

All very interesting! I did stop by Cripple Creek Music and the guitar there is a OOO-28VS. I do like the herringbone purfling, but will decide later whether I want abalone.

When the ultimate guitar building plans get printed out I can compare them to the stewmac ones. I like all the extra touches that are on the Ultimate plans.

Mark as I indicated in the PM I sent (I assume you got it?) Preston Thompson is somewhat of an expert in the construction of vintage replicas -- here's the one he made for Peter Rowan

http://pkthompsonguitars.com/images/Web ... index.html

Not too shabby!!!!

That is a fine looking guitar, Ken. I got your PM, and have followed up by returning to the guitar shop to sight across the top of the 000-28. Sure 'nuff, looks flat. Real flat. Actually, there is a little bit of dome-ish-ness that seems to come solely from string tension.

It all seems too simple! If i am not mistaken, the neck set angle is exactly 90 degrees... I may have to purchase the book you recommended so that my brother and I can plan the construction of such an instrument. I must also find some good discussion regarding the benefits of a domed top vs. a flat one, as I assume there is a reason that "modern" guitars are commonly domed. I like to have a reason for each construction technique, even if it is someone else's.

Martin tops are domed, not flat

There is a practical scientific reason for a slight dome (in addition to the fact that it prevents the sound board from taking on a concave appearance). A domed top has a bit more surface area then a perfectly flat top -- therefore if the sound board shrinks from lack of moisture ( low RH) it will belly in before it cracks. That said Martin still uses a 52' radius on their braces, check out the tops on the R Taylor signature models they have completely flat tops -- and the brag about it! -- as will Martin if you call the factory -- they are quick to point out that they make flat top guitars. BTW the pull/tension of the strings on a flat guitar does not take advantage of the arch strength, on the other hand instruments with tail pieces do -- the force is downward (bow and arrow) ie. jazz guitars, violins, upright basses, viola etc.

I've been seen so often in Cripple Creek Music looking at that 000 that I've got a joking arrangement with them: I should buy the guitar, and then sell it on consignment once I've built a better one. The sales guy says that might take a while.

Like most of us you'll be amazed how nice a first or second build can be -- make it light, pay attention to fit and finish, don't get hung up on precise cloning measurements (those old instrument were semi-hand made and varied a lot -- as much a 1/4" length width etc.)