Official Luthiers Forum!

    Right now I am beginning my first solo build , to start I bought a serviced top and bent sides ,   since I am not set up for bending  or cutting rosettes. Since the sides came bent I am  making  a dread (mahogany  back) similar to a d-18, that has been decided  for me . my question is , I know  martin D guitars  are at a 25' radius , I am  set up for a 28'  radius . Am I approaching any unforseen ( by me at least ) problems  changing the radius? I am thinking I may lose some midrange emphasis since the radius will be shallower ,and maybe the guitar top will be subject to  more movement in changes of humidity with the seasons ??  thanks Jody

You're asking the kind of question that gets a range of answers from "don't sweat the small stuff" to "the devil is in the details".   The difference between 25' and 28' is going to be the least of your issues on a first build, in my opinion.

The top is set for a 1 1/2 degree neck angle , this equates to a 28 foot radius. The key here is to be careful so you don't get the 14th fret hump.
john hall
blues creek geetars

I use a 28' radius on most all of my builds. It is rare for me to use anything else.

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Reguards,

Ken H

 Thanks guys ,, I am just trying my darndest  not to end up with a GLO... Jody

I'm afraid to ask what a GLO is...

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Steve Sollod (pronounced sorta like "Solid")
www.swiftcreekguitars.com

Guitar LIke Object

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Waddy

Photobucket Build Album Library

Sound Clips of most of my guitars

 well I am not exactly a beginer . I did have the experience of building a guitar with Frank Finocchio, we didnt go too deep into theory but  I have put all the parts  together in a masterly fashion ,under his guidance of course , it was a great experience . I learned alot , one thing I learned is I still have alot to learn!   LOL   Jody

Jody, I'm more of a beginner than you having never masterly put anything together (except perhaps my credit card number in luthier suppliers' secured servers...) But you may want to check out the archives under "neck angle top radius" which will give you more information about the 1.5 degree taper above the sound hole and on top of the neck block corresponds closely to the 28' radius. My understanding is that it will still need a little sanding when it comes time to attach the neck.

  thanks Darren ,  I will check it out , I think thats why we use the  dish .. also to angle the  lining with the top and bracing , as well as the  neck  and tail blocks .....  Jody 

I have an article that will be in an upcoming guitarmaker mag issue. it is on this very subject. If you email me I can send you the file. it will be in 3 downloads.
john hall
tippie@epix.net