What is unique about
Eichelbaum Guitars?

It's interesting how this question can change over time. For example, when I first started building almost fifteen years ago the extensive use of jigs and templates was something found primarily in a factory setting. I would say Jim Olson is the first builder I became aware of who really effectively applied this to a small shop setting. So when I started offering my own line of guitars it was partly because I was fascinated with the idea of making advancements on the designs I had seen as well as building better sounding guitars. Jigs, efficiency, and accuracy were my ethos.

However, today things are very different. Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Machining (CAM) have dramatically changed the landscape of manufacturing across the board, and that includes guitar building. At first the computer technology was employed by only the largest factories, but as the technology becomes more and more affordable small shops are starting to embrace it as well. These days it is also possible to subcontract a myriad of processes and parts ranging from making complete necks & bridges to the actual finish work. It's a different environment.

So I've given some thought to how I feel about this and what I am trying to offer my customers. What I came up with is the strong belief that part of what people are paying for when they purchase a custom, or "hand made" instrument is a certain involvement in the process. Not only on their part, but on the part of the builder as well. It's easy to debate the very question of what constitutes "hand made" but I think there's value in my customers knowing I still work alone and perform every process myself...from selecting the woods, to sweeping the floor, to painting the guitars. I'm even likely to answer the phone. And, I'm also still striving to constantly build better guitars...

 

What is the current wait list?

As of Summer 2006 I have a current wait list of about 16-18 months on all orders.

 

How Important is Proper Humidity?

Maintaining the proper climate for a new guitar is crucial to the longevity of the instrument as well as for maintaining the Warranty. I build in a constant environment of 44-46% Relative Humidity at approx. 72 degrees F. which are the conditions you should strive for as well (particularly for the first year or so). Please call or write if you have further questions.

 

What are the differences in various soundboard woods?

There is no "magic" soundboard material that will guarantee a certain result. One piece of advice I try to offer people - whether they buy a guitar from me or not - is to be as descriptive as possible about your playing style and needs and let the builder suggest the appropriate wood choice.

I prefer to work with either Adirondack or one of the varieties of European Spruce. But I am comfortable with Sitka Spruce (highly underrated in the world of "custom" guitars) and Western Red Cedar as well. I have never found Engleman Spruce to offer anything unique from a tonal perspective. Below is a short description of each wood.