The design of my headblock distributes the force of the neck pull onto the rim of the guitar, which increases the stability of the neck and reduces the movement and eventual need for a neck reset experienced in traditional construction methods.

I build with the idea that the sides of the guitar are primarily structural. Using a three layer laminate allows me to make a much stiffer rim, which will transmit energy to the top and back. These areas are far more efficient than the sides at converting the vibrational energy to sound.

Separating the structural (rim) and acoustic (top and back) components of the guitar allows each part to be optimized for its role in producing sound. A stiff rim frees up the top from some of its structural role, making it more delicate and responsive.

A wide saddle provides more contact surface with the string, thereby improving the transfer of the string's energy into the bridge and soundboard. The wide saddle also allows more room for dialing in accurate string compensation.

Adding carbon fiber rods to the neck dramatically increases its stiffness, allowing the energy to transfer through the neck rather than being lost in flexing. The carbon fiber also increases the neck’s stability, minimizing the effects of seasonal changes in wood and the resulting need for adjustments.