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Hi Guys,
I recently purchased a set of 12 string Dred plans from LMI, there drawn by Scott Antes.
I noticed the bridge plate is huge, its approx 2.5 times the area of the bridge. It extendes forward of the bridge 1/2" and aft of the bridge 1.25". It's basically a huge tirangle. Seam like a lot of mass glues to the underside of the top.
Is this how you guys build your 12 string bridge plates ??
Any thought would be appreciated.

Gregg

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Gregg

Well, I can't answer your question directly, but I've picked up from around here that Antes plans are notorious for being overbuilt. I have that plan also, so I'm curious to hear what others have to say about it.
Cheers

Yes, my bridge plates on 12's are quite large, but then I also use a different style of bracing on them. Here's a comparison of my 6 and 12 bridge plates.



My tops are also quite thick, but I use .070"-.014" strings on 12's.
I've not seen the Antes print, but you just can't make a blanket statement like they are overbuilt. A 12 string is a completely different animal from a 6. Depends on the strings you want to use, the tone you are looking for, and how you are going to tune them. If you want a "harpy" sounding 12, lightly built and extra lites might work, but if you are looking for a fat tone, heavy strings and an "overbuilt" box with a long scale tuned down to C+ or B is the way to go. Remember you have twice as many strings that drive the top, so there is a lot of power there.

If you don't compensate the plate for the additional torque you top will not take the stress. Yes the plate must be that large.

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John Hall
blues creek guitars
Authorized CF Martin Repair
Co President of ASIA
You Don't know what you don't know until you know it

Really nice looking work, Hanns!

Thanks Guys !!

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Gregg