Making an Archtop Guitar - Second Edition by Robert Benedetto | Complete Acoustic Guitar Building Guide for Luthiers and Woodworkers | Step by Step Archtop Construction and Design Reference Book

by Robert Benedetto

The definitive work on the design and construction of an acoustic archtop guitar, this updated second edition features 288 pages of content, including 24 color pages and 4 tear-outs. See what industry greats have said about this book: "I know of no other work offering comprehensive step by step coverage of the making of an acoustic jazz guitar." George Gruhn "This book is for everyone who loves woodworking, loves guitars, appreciates artistry, and believes that organic materials like spruce, maple and ebony can only achieve their highest function through the hands of a craftsman." Howard Paul "I can think of no one more knowledgeable and qualified to share his years of expertise than master luthier Robert Benedetto." Dick Boak.

316 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1994

About the author

Acclaimed builder of archtop guitars.

Reviews

[Thomas Van reeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Duidelijke uitleg, nu mijn praktijk nog :)

[Kai Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

pretty great, not in depth, but then again he's a luthier, not a literary genius. love the design though, an awesome book to have for inspiration

[Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

As others have suggested, this is much more of an overview of the process, rather than an in-depth discussion of the construction steps. There is very little guidance regarding the detail of the processes or insight into the potential pitfalls etc.

It is a beautiful book, well written, and showcases Benedetto's life and work wonderfully. Some of the illustrations could have been a bit clearer, but on the most part is a good read.

If you are going to construct a guitar I would firmly recommend reading Making Master Guitars by Roy Courtnall as a companion to this book. I read Courtnall's book first which is superb and sets the bar extremely high. Benedetto's book is a bit of a disappointment in comparison. However, with the two books side by side, it should be possible to construct an arch top guitar of high quality.

Having said that I have the utmost respect for Benedetto, his guitars and his craftsmanship, and I will re-read this book.

[Peter Burrowes · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book assumes you're not a beginning wood worker, so he's able to focus on essentials in a clear and concise manner, with a teaching style that guides you to acquire experience and a feel for what you're doing. There's much a flat-top luthier can pick up as well. Even if you never build an archtop, it's a great read.