The Structure of the Acoustic Guitar
How a guitar makes sound
String vibration resonates throughout the body
Guitars consist of two sections: the neck and the body. Strings are run from the neck to the body. When a string is plucked its vibration is transmitted from the bridge, resonating throughout the top of the guitar. It is also transmitted to the side and back of the instrument, resonating through the air in the body, finally producing sound from the sound hole.
Learn the parts of the acoustic guitar
Acoustic guitar parts
The top is extremely important!
The top of the guitar, also called the soundboard, plays a crucial role in producing sound. It is made from wood that is lighter and offers even better sound transmission than that used in the sides or back of the instrument. Although some players put stickers or other decorations on the top, doing so is not recommended as it can cause the sound to suffer. You may wonder, then, why there is a pick guard installed on the top. Actually, this is sort of a necessary evil, as it prevents the pick from striking the top and scratching it.
Picks used for steel strings
Musical Instrument Guide : Acoustic Guitar Contents
Structure
How the Instrument is Made
Choosing an Instrument
Trivia
- The guitar top is actually two panels stuck together
- The shape of the pick guard is dictated by the manufacturer
- Collector's item with a modern Japanese style
- Cutaways make it easier to access upper frets
- Why do the spaces between frets grow narrower down the neck?
- The order guitars and violins are strung in differs