Todd Stock wrote:
Keep in mind that the SJ is very close to the 000/OM in top area, so dropping the depth to 4-1/8" will get you something close to the 000 package, which is a little light on bass response. I build SJ's to 4-1/2" to 4-5/8", and get a very well balanced guitar.
IMO, the OLF SJ bracing plan tends toward the stout side; for a standard scalloped pattern, I think you would be happier with red spruce, sitka, or stiff Euro at 1/4" x .600" X, 1/4" x .500 tonebars, 1/4" x .375" fingers, 3/8" x 5/8" UTB, and for a stiff redwood top, around .125 on the body.
IMO, the OLF SJ bracing plan tends toward the stout side; for a standard scalloped pattern, I think you would be happier with red spruce, sitka, or stiff Euro at 1/4" x .600" X, 1/4" x .500 tonebars, 1/4" x .375" fingers, 3/8" x 5/8" UTB, and for a stiff redwood top, around .125 on the body.
Todd,
I really appreciate the advice!! You helped me a couple times already, and I can't express how grateful I am. I thought the bracing plan seemed a little heavy. I actually went and looked again at Greven's jumbo, and I had it wrong. He does his at 4.25" not 4 1/8". I was thinking of doing it at that depth after his design. However, I'm going to take your advice on going 4 1/2". That would be only a 1/4" difference from the original Gibson. After my last build, I realize that sometimes less change is more.
Sean