Official Luthiers Forum!

Hey folks,

so I've finally secured some equipment to begin building again (be scared. be very scared) and I think I want to tackle a cross over classical- well because I'm thinking it'll be fun! I was going to go with a 1 13/16" nut, cutaway and a Torres pattern but was thinking of x bracing instead because I may want to go high tension/ silk and steels.... anyone have any thoughts on the classical cross over design?

Terence

Sounds more like a steel string with a Torres plantilla than a "cross over". Which is OK, but not really a cross over in my mind.

I think that the first choice has to be what sort of voice you want it to have: steel or nylon? Then how do you want it to play? Every other design choice derives from your answers to these questions.

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Expectation is the source of all misery; comparison the thief of joy.
http://redrivercanoe.ca/

I am thinking about smth similar too for a while now:

-Use my Torres-type shape, spanish construction, fixed neck, but of mahogany and 2 CF rods, and X bracing.
-Should be used for 75% fingerstyle and 25% blues, and with extra light/light steel strings.
-I also have the perfect top for a job: a light weight, nice ringing, aged Swiss spruce top, but floppy across the grain because of a cheap cut. I think it is just perfect for a X braced narrow guitar.
-Mahogany back.

Just so it is easier for you folks to picture, the classical Torres shape is almost exactly the same as a Martin 00, save for a wider upper bout. The lower bout and total length, and box depth, are the same take or give a few mm.

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Build log

Check out Matt Mustapicks cross over guitars...Very interesting.

If you go to his shop/blog you can see he incorporates a lattice style to his soundboards.

Ray

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Guitar Building = Continuous Improvement Process

I have been making nylon crossover guitars for a few years now. I recommend adding an 1/8" to whatever neck width you are used to on a steel string. If you like 1 3/4" on steel, make your nylon 1 7/8". That's about how much width it takes to compensate for the thicker strings and higher action.

I have not tried X bracing a nylon string. I have done traditional Torres bracing and an all wood lattice bracing pattern. Both worked well with the lattice having more punch and less tonal color.

Here's what Mine looks like....

http://www.blanchardguitars.com/guitarp ... icool.html

http://www.blanchardguitars.com/guitarp ... icool.html

http://www.blanchardguitars.com/guitarp ... tures.html

Mark, those are gorgeous guitars. I love the shape. I also really like your armrest. I sure hope I get a chance to see and play one of those in the not-too-distant future.

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Todd Rose
Ithaca, NY

https://www.dreamingrosesecobnb.com/todds-art-music

https://www.facebook.com/ToddRoseGuitars/

thanks guys!

Terence