The Hub

For my current mandolin build, I set out to answer 2 questions: 1. Whether to use physical deflection or frequency analysis to measure stiffness, and 2. How well can I measure wood quality in rough sawn form? (T. Gore says it needs to be planed smooth and rectangular for frequency analysis.) I have 4 different topwood species available for my current build: California Sitka, Englemann, Lutz, and Coastal Redwood. The billets range from 37…

I've been testing all my top and bracewood to find the best combination of stiffness and density, optimize plate thickness, etc. I started with Nicoletti's spreadsheet which calculates both stiffness and density, but since I was also testing deflection, I decided to compare the flexural modulus using that method (with the formula from T. Gore's book) on the same plates and bracewood. Unfortunately, I'm having trouble getting a satisfa…

Hi Gang, I was finishing up a new guitar and discovered a rattle that I think is the truss rod. Strange that it did show up until now. I always rap on the neck to make sure the truss rod does not rattle before I begin finishing. Anyway, I finished the setup and was recording the final frequency responses (like Gore and Giuliano Nicoletti) and the rattle only happens when I tap the bridge with the sound hole blocked. Anyway, it sounds l…

I figure this could be a fun thread. For anyone who has done any of the spectrum analysis work based on the discussions with Giuliano Nicoletti on their new builds, or existing guitars, I figured we could post our results here.

@member@member and I will be discussing design and testing and how it can be relevant in repair and restoration. Also, consider buying his outstanding book on the subject.