Engineering the Guitar

History of the Guitar.- Acoustics and Musical Theory.- Structure of the Guitar.- Dynamic Behavior.- Analytical Models.- Manufacturing Processes.- Sound Quality.- Guitar Electronics.- Unique Characteristics.

From the reviews:

"...[This is the only book] that deals with the engineering aspects of guitars. Thus it serves a real need for scientifically-oriented guitar makers and aficionados as well as those interested in a broad overview of the world of guitars... The overall broad view of the book makes good reading for those interested in the myriad details involve in constructing a string instrument and then evaluating it scientifically, as the author's personal building experience and knowledge of a wide variety of guitar construction techniques are put to good use... a significant, commendable addition to the guitar literature in a very broad-ranging book on a very important string instrument."

George Bissinger, East Carolina University, EXPERIMENTAL TECHNIQUES (May-June 2009)

"French discusses whether the math models are ... sufficient to capture the features of acoustic responses that are highly correlated with good sound quality. In conclusion ... this book will help luthiers at all levels think more clearly about how to successfully manufacture guitars of high sound quality. The book ... particularly valuable to students of guitar construction and repair. For the rest of us, this book makes interesting reading." (Leo Beranek, International Journal of Acoustics and Vibration, Vol. 14 (2), 2009)

"Why do guitars sound like they do, and how do you set about making one? These are central questions addressed ... in this attractive new book. ... The book is well written, and generously illustrated with interesting ... graphs. ... a unique and special addition to the literature, and it deserves to be widely read. For anyone contemplating construction of a guitar it will surely be indispensible. Physicists and engineers with musical inclinations, as well as guitar players ... are likely to be fascinated." (Peter V. E. McClintock, Contemporary Physics, Vol. 51 (6), 2010)