An acoustic guitar’s materials, building techniques, and dimensions drastically impact the tone and feel of the instrument. That’s why two of the exact same model can sound completely different. Because of this, a trip to the guitar store can become a whole-day event as you try every guitar in the shop looking for The One. It’s exhilarating when you find it, for sure. But it’s maddening when you can’t. Online shopping for an acoustic is even worse. Unless you’re willing to deal with shipping, returns, and exchanges, you can get stuck with the first guitar off the line.
This inconsistency is the main driver behind our proprietary Sound Optimization process. At its most basic, Sound Optimization consists of digitally measuring each piece of wood used in our Made in Bend guitars. These measurements are taken four times during each guitar’s build process. We use that data to hand-voice each one, optimizing its tone and performance while ensuring unmatched consistency from guitar to guitar.
Harnessing modern technology, our unique design language, and hand-craftsmanship, Sound Optimization is a beautiful marriage of art, science, and craft. And it goes way beyond individual instruments. The data we collect is also crucial to optimizing our entire production process, informs our Designed in Bend guitars, and guides the innovation driving our brand.
Let’s look at the Sound Optimization process in more detail. By the end of the article, you’ll have a better idea of what it is, how it’s done, and why it’s a vital part of the Breedlove story.
- Step 1: Measuring, sorting, and tuning tonewood blanks
- Step 2: Tuning the bracing
- Step 3: Voicing the soundbox
- Step 4: The Guitar Portrait
- Optimizing Breedlove
Step 1: Measuring, sorting, and tuning tonewood blanks
Two otherwise-identical wood blanks from the same tree can vary in density and other measurables by up to 30%. The first step of S.O. addresses those differences while determining how to use each to its fullest musical potential.
In our climate-controlled environment, we start by sorting and sanding every top and back blank to a uniform thickness of .170″. We then carefully measure those blanks for everything from dimensions and weight to stiffness, resonance, and flexibility. Finally, the raw blanks are tapped with a specialized hammer and recorded into a computer to be analyzed for frequency response, amplitude, and sustain. That analysis is compared to a defined set of target frequencies for each blank’s species and use.
Those initial readings determine the style of play and body shape each blank will be used for. They also tell us how to sand and tune each one to meet the target frequencies assigned to each guitar in that category. We even match each top to a back blank tuned to enhance its sonic qualities.
Step 2: Tuning the bracing
The second step of Sound Optimization is done after the blanks have been shaped and braced as guitar tops and backs.
We secure the prepared pieces in a custom mold that simulates their use in a completed guitar. They are then tapped and recorded into the same analysis software as in step one. But this time, we get out the chisels and fine-tune the braces. By removing wood from the braces in strategic locations, we can adjust the tops and backs’ resonant peaks to align with our target frequencies. And it’s all done on the spot in real time by expert craftspeople.
Step 3: Voicing the soundbox
The next time we see the optimized tops and backs, they’re joined with the sides to complete the guitar’s soundbox. This soundbox goes through the same measuring process as the first two steps. If we’ve done our jobs there, the soundbox should be on the money regarding our targeted frequencies and response. But in the rare case that it’s not, we can further tune the wood and braces within the soundbox.
Step 4: The Guitar Portrait
The fourth and final time the wood hits our Sound Optimization bench, it’s in the form of a completed acoustic guitar. The neck’s attached, the guitar is finished, and the bridge is installed. It’s also strung up and ready to make music.
Needless to say, each of these elements affects the guitar’s voice. So, once more, we tap-test, record, and measure its sonic performance. Even though the guitar is “done,” it must align with the model’s target frequencies to make it out the door. As it does, we write the top and back wood thicknesses, their resonant frequencies, and the guitar’s fundamental frequency on your new Breedlove’s Guitar Portrait card. Then we send it on its way to you.
Optimizing Breedlove
Sound Optimization is the foundation of everything we do at Breedlove. That’s why we record and keep the measurements for every guitar we make. They’re not only essential to crafting great, consistent acoustic guitars, but they help us improve our entire production process and inspire new innovations.
Cascade Bracing
Cascade Bracing, found in our Designed in Bend guitars, is one such innovation based on Sound Optimization. Though we don’t individually tune each of these guitars, we developed their bracing from nearly a decade of Sound Optimization data. This information lets us specify unique brace dimensions and thicknesses to get the most from each model and body shape. Think of it as Sound Optimization across the entire line.
The Sound Optimization process could take a book to cover. Hopefully you understand more about what goes into it, and why we’re so proud of it. Yes, it makes every Made in Bend Breedlove sound terrific and consistent from guitar to guitar, but it also informs every other aspect of our art form. It’s what allows us to offer incredible acoustic guitars in a variety of price ranges, each one ready for the music you make. Learn more about Cascade Bracing here.
