Acoustic Guitar Construction

I learned to build from a luthier (David Nichols) with over 55 years experience that worked at both the Martin (he still does custom work for Martin) and Gibson factories early on in his career. I use a 25' radius and glue up the top on a flat surface (as I was taught). Now while he did work for Martin it may be my assumption or faulty memory that he told me it was the Martin process. Anyway, I think my guitars come out sounding real nice. So I guess we chalk it up to different strokes for different folks.

Yes Martin uses 52' radius on the top braces just over 15' on the back. Of course there are other methods used successfully. Just reporting the facts. I will not name drop, but it will suffice to say that I have been to the Martin factory many times to talk and see what goes on. I have had countless Martin 1st quality parts here in our shop and taken measurements. Tim I am sure you and Dave make fine guitars and I have no dog in the fight, since I sell stuff that allows the builder to pick and choose and use any method they want -- but if Martin is capitalizing of this "Authentic" madness just seems this contour issue should be clearly defined.

kencierp wrote: but if Martin is capitalizing of this "Authentic" madness just seems this contour issue should be clearly defined.

Boy, you'll get no argument from me on that one. Those prices are insanely crazy. I build for enjoyment and to pass on (what I think) a good guitars to those I build for at reasonable prices. The Brazilian Rosewood/Adi topped dred I'm building now is as close to "authentic" specs (1937) as I can get it, HHG and all for $2000. No reason Martin should be getting $16,000 and half that with one made from Madagascar RW.

Ben-Had wrote:

kencierp wrote: but if Martin is capitalizing of this "Authentic" madness just seems this contour issue should be clearly defined.

Boy, you'll get no argument from me on that one. Those prices are insanely crazy. I build for enjoyment and to pass on (what I think) a good guitars to those I build for at reasonable prices. The Brazilian Rosewood/Adi topped dred I'm building now is as close to "authentic" specs (1937) as I can get it, HHG and all for $2000. No reason Martin should be getting $16,000 and half that with one made from Madagascar RW.

$2000......That's a bahhhhgain! (my Boston accent)

Yeah -- I am thinking changing the brace contour from 40' to 52' and tossing in a packet of hide glue crystals to the KMG kit package -- ya think I could sell them for "five" times more?? Jeeezzzz!