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Convertible Fretboard

Has anyone tried to make a convertible fingerboard/neck? I'm thinking of using a 3/16" fretboard which could be clipped to the neck with small rare-earth magnets.This would allow fretted playing and aggressive slide playing on the same guitar. Any thoughts?

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Permalink Reply by Keni Lee Burgess on September 28, 2010 at 7:24am

I encourage your experimentation, but it seems a little gimmicky to me. Just like fold up travel guitars. A 3/4 size works fine for me. Many times these added feature jeopardize the function of the instrument. For me, quality CBG building is what I find most desirable; ease of playability, perfect intonation, stays in tune, tone and volume. Asethetics are nice, but functional form is key. Thanks for sharing. Enjoy.

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Permalink Reply by ChickenboneJohn on September 28, 2010 at 12:02pm

I think there comes a point where you can plan and theorise too much..then it's time to build, and work it out for real. After building over 250 guitars, I can now think, "I'll build a guitar tomorrow", and I don't get too concerned about things. For a simple guitar I mean I'll actually build it, all in one day, finished and playable. This isn't swagger, it's just to convey the idea that with sufficient application you can get things done quickly, and get your ideas tested by making something for real.

I'll have identified in my head the problem areas, maybe done a quick sketch to check where the bridge will be placed and where the neck /body joint happens, then go to it with the tools. On the simplest of instruments there's no drawings, just a piece of wood and an idea. The more you work like this, the more confident you'll get, and the more you'll get a sense of whether something is feasible or within your capabilities.

Don't dream it - make it!!

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Permalink Reply by rich poulin on September 29, 2010 at 5:44am

I agree with the benefits of practice vs. theorizing. I love the building process and prefer to spend as much time as possible with my feet in sawdust rather than in front of the drawing board, but during the time I can't spend in the shop I tend to let my mind wander over the possibilities. Once the saws come out, I'll most likely stick to a more standard design, but I can't stop the brain from mulling over this sort of thing. Oh well...