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Guitar Repair and Construction
Violin Building
Dulcimer Building
Amplifier Building and Repair
Building and Repair - Other Instruments

A GUITAR MAKER'S MANUAL by Jim Williams Photo

Step-by-step illustrated instructions for building steel and nylon-strung guitars, plus templates. Comb-bound. 104 pp.
49-151 $19.95

A GUITARMAKER'S CANVAS - THE INLAY ART OF GRIT LASKIN by Grit Laskin 5 Photos

Grit Laskin has been building guitars for more than 30 years and his striking inlay work places his instruments in a class all their own. He is credited with taking the ages-old tradition of musical instrument inlay from its decorative roots into an art form, a means of expression. This is the first book to document his work and the techniques he has devised. Over 240 full color photos document 90 inlay projects with chapters on Grit's history as a guitarmaker, the history of inlay, and one that follows a complex inlay project from concept to completion. Hardcover. 132 pp.
49-331098 $49.95

ACOUSTIC GUITAR - AN HISTORICAL LOOK AT THE COMPOSITION, CONSTRUCTION, AND EVOLUTION OF ONE OF THE WORLD'S MOST BELOVED INSTRUMENTS by Frank Ford, Michael Simmons, Richard Johnston & Teja Gerken Photo

Foreword by C.F. Martin IV. How do you tell the difference between a great and not-so-great guitar? How much of the sound is determined by the woods and how much by building style? How much money do you have to spend to get a guitar that matches your style and skill level? This book seeks to answer these questions by helping you understand how guitar designs differ, how they sound and even what their origins are. Nearly every type of acoustic guitar is discussed with an emphasis on steel-string flattops, classical and archtop guitars. Each chapter covers an individual part of the instrument's construction. Includes a guide to care and maintenance, a section on common repairs, and a 16 page color section with historically significant instruments. 376 pp.
49-331185 $18.95

ACOUSTIC GUITAR OWNER'S MANUAL Photo

Acoustic guitarists can now better understand their instruments, preserve and protect their value, and get the sounds they really want! Whether it's cleaning a guitar, protecting it from theft or humidity changes, selecting a case, or performing diagnostics, readers will become more savvy acoustic guitar owners. Covers: fret maintenance & refretting, installing and troubleshooting pickups, cracks, neck repairs, caring for the finish, more. 112 pp.
49-330532 $17.95

ALFRED'S TEACH YOURSELF GUITAR REPAIR & MAINTENANCE by John Carruthers Photo

Book/DVD set. Simple step-by-step instructions and photos - taught by a legendary guitar builder and repair guru to the stars. Teaches you how to set the action, intonation, and adjust the truss rod. Learn to set up and adjust a Floyd Rose tremolo system. With instructions on soldering and maintenance of electronics. 79 pp.
20-22856 $29.95

ART THAT SINGS: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF LUTHIER STEVE KLEIN by Paul Schmidt Photo

A gorgeously produced biography of Klein's quirky path to becoming a master luthier whose radical perspective has created an alternative form of deep beauty in the world of lutherie. A natural artist in nearly any form that caught his fancy, Klein's path to guitars traverses the Bay Area of the '60s & '70s, a time when access to important players was at least possible. Studded with quotes and photos, the text illuminates the places, people and thought processes that inform Klein's art, in his own words. Hardcover, 80 pp.
613-1 $59.00

BASIC GUITAR ADJUSTMENTS & SETUPS - AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO GUITAR MAINTENANCE by John Boehnlein Photo

Case-sized book. Covers: restringing; neck, action, intonation and pickup adjustments; adjusting vibrato bridges, long term maintenance, more. 32 pp.
49-695149 $5.95

BUILD YOUR OWN ACOUSTIC GUITAR - COMPLETE INSTRUCTIONS AND FULL SIZE PLANS by Jonathan Kinkead Photo

Building your own fine guitar is not as difficult as you might imagine, given some skill, patience, and the expert guidance of a master luthier. This book fully covers every step of construction, from choice, selection, and preparation of woods, to consideration of size, bracing, and tonal qualities. Each step of the building sequence is clearly photographed, with variations in the standard design shown to enable you to personalize your instrument as you make it. With full-color photographs throughout and plans for a Kinkade Kingsdown steel string acoustic guitar. 160 pp.
49-331037 $29.95

CLAPTON'S GUITAR: WATCHING WAYNE HENDERSON BUILD THE PERFECT INSTRUMENT by Allen St. John Photo

A mesmerizing journey into the heart of high-end guitar-making through the quirky character of Wayne Henderson, a musician and craftsman who builds his guitars by hand, literally by putting penknife to wood and carving away "everything that isn't a guitar." There is a waiting list 10 years long for his guitars. This absorbing account follows, step-by-step, the incredible sculpting of Clapton's favored guitar and along the way readers get a whirlwind tour of what might be called "Six String Nation," where fine instruments are made, played, and treasured in modern America. 277 pp.
542-141 $14.00

CLASSIC GUITAR CONSTRUCTION by Irving Sloane Photo

"Diagrams, photographs, and step-by-step instructions" on building your own instrument. Brief and concise but packed with information -- a perennial favorite! 96 pp.
132-12 $24.95

CLASSICAL GUITAR MAKING - A MODERN APPROACH TO TRADITIONAL DESIGN by John S. Bogdanovich Photo

In this richly illustrated manual, luthier and guitarist John Bogdanovich helps you develop the necessary skills to build your own guitar, even if you've never made anything more complicated than a school woodworking project. He painstakingly lays out the details of construction, from assembling the neck and sides to installing the fingerboard and bridge. Color close-up photographs allow you to follow the entire process from start to finish. Along the way he offers guidance through every step and explains every decision, from the selection of wood, to tuning and setting up the instrument. Hardcover. 310 pp.
01-910508 $29.95

COMPLETE GUITAR REPAIR by Hideo Kamimoto Photo

Master craftsman Hideo Kamimoto tells you everything you need to know about the maintenance, restoration and construction of classical, flamenco, flattop, plectrum (archtop), and solid body electric guitars. Covers adjustments, action and scale, peghead repairs, neck and fingerboard repairs, bridge repairs, dealing with cracks and missing sections, touchup and refinishing, pickups and controls, more. All steps clearly explained with over 200 diagrams, photos and tables. 160 pp.
01-000156 $24.95

CONSTRUCTING A SOLID-BODY GUITAR by Roger Siminoff Photo

Uses over 150 photos, several illustrations and four life-size blueprints to assist you in choosing the proper materials and tools, as well as using the correct skills and techniques to produce a beautiful handmade instrument! Spiral bound. 60 pp.
49-115 $19.95

ELECTRIC GUITAR CONSTRUCTION - A GUIDE FOR THE FIRST TIME BUILDER by Tom Hirst Photo

With this book as your guide, you can create your own axe masterpiece, with the precise finish, the exact pickups, and the custom hardware you've always wanted. From design and planning to the final setup, each step in the process is described in abundant detail, with hundreds of photographs, and special full-color sections on wood selection and finishing. Also includes a glossary of terms, an index of materials suppliers, more. 168 pp.
49-1311 $39.95

FAQ - CLASSIC GUITAR CARE AND SETUP by John LeVan Photo

A hands-on guide to classical guitar repair. Photographs, diagrams, and sketches. Learn how to: clean & condition your guitar; restring; adjust the neck, bridge saddle, string nut, and intonation; carve string nuts and bridge saddles, and do other miscellaneous upgrades and repairs. For beginners or a reference for the guitar repair professional. Forward written by Bob Taylor of Taylor Guitars. Half-size, 77 pp.
02-21033 $7.95

GUITAR ELECTRONICS FOR MUSICIANS by Donald Brosnac Photo

A comprehensive guide on pickups and wiring for everyone interested in electric guitars. Step-by-step explanations with over 350 photos, drawings, & schematics. 128 pp.
01-042324 $24.95

GUITAR MAKING - TRADITION AND TECHNOLOGY by William R. Cumpiano & Jonathan D. Natelson Photo

Comprehensive guide to the construction of acoustic steel-string and classical guitars by two highly-respected East Coast luthiers. Nearly 500 photos and drawings, with bibliography, supplier, historical, and technical info. Paperbound. 387 pp.
235-2 $40.00

GUITAR PLAYER REPAIR GUIDE: HOW TO SET UP, MAINTAIN, & REPAIR ELECTRICS & ACOUSTICS by Dan Erlewine Photo

Easy-to-follow tips and tricks for the budding or experienced guitar tech, by one of the nation's top repairmen. Reprinted from his popular column in Guitar Player magazine. Well-illustrated. 2nd edition, 309 pp.
49-183633 $22.95

GUITAR REPAIR by Irving Sloane Photo

Covers the full range of acoustic, or hollowbody guitar repairs, as well as applications to the mandolin, ukulele, banjo and lute. Close cracks, adjust action, fix braces, patch fractures, replace bridge and pick guard, refret, refinish, restore antiques and more. 125 photos and diagrams. Softcover, 96 pp.
132-11 $26.95

GUITAR SETUP, MAINTENANCE & REPAIR by John LeVan Photo

Uses photographs, diagrams and sketches made by the author or provided by manufacturers to teach how to clean, condition, adjust the action and properly intonate your acoustic guitar, as well as: John's trade secrets on hand-carving bone nuts and bridge saddles, wiring and fretwork. Also includes a chapter on identifying and diagnosing problem guitars. For beginners or a reference for the guitar repair professional. Forward written by Bob Taylor of Taylor Guitars. 152 pp.
02-20309 $24.95

GUITAR STRINGING CHART by Mike Christiansen Photo

Definitive resource guide for putting new strings on the guitar. Clear photos and detailed step by step descriptions show you how to change strings on steel-string and nylon-string guitars. Also contains information on when to change strings and what strings to use. 4 pp.
02-99617 $3.95

GUITARS THROUGH THE AGES: CRAFTSMAN TO PERFORMER by James Westbrook, foreword by Hermann Hauser III Photo

A compulsively readable, detailed book infused with the affection and knowledge Westbrook carries for his collection. Westbrook wrote this in connection with a concert in which he allowed 6 guitars from his prestigious collection to be played by Paul Gregory, Ulrich Wedemeier and Taro Takeuchi. The 6 guitars they used - an unlabelled French five-course guitar dated at about 1780, an 1830 Gennaro Fabricatore, an 1889 Torres, an 1830 Rene Lacote, an 1838 Louis Panormo, and a 1966 Robert Bouchet - are the focus of the book. Section one gives an historical perspective of the guitars, with lively histories of the luthiers and players and technical/cultural information. Section two presents the collection in a series of photos. Section 3 gives the technical details of the guitars and restoration. From X-rays to guesses as to why the guitars are as they are, even this section reads like a good mystery. 72 pp.
612-1 $20.00

HOW TO MAKE YOUR ELECTRIC GUITAR PLAY GREAT by Dan Erlewine Photo

Whether shopping for a first guitar or setting up a vintage treasure to get the right action, this book offers the keys to electric guitar ownership for players at all levels. Topics covered: choosing the right guitar, techniques and tools for keeping your guitar healthy, adjusting a "factory setup," intonation, adjusting the truss rod, nut adjustment, bridge and tailpiece maintenance, whammy bars, cleaning finishes, more! Includes plastic sheet with punch out radius gauges for setting up your guitar. 133 pp.
49-330535 $19.95

MAKE YOUR OWN ELECTRIC GUITAR & BASS by Dennis Waring, David Raymond, Thomas Randall Photo

These well-detailed instructions for building a standard 6-string solid-body model guitar and bass emphasize simplicity & logic, use common tools and easy-to-order materials, and provide resources for buying electronic components and other hardware. Pictures and diagrams abound. Both traditional and modern features crop up, making the finished product perfect for any genre of music. 96 pp.
132-20 $18.95

MAKING AN ARCHTOP GUITAR by Robert Benedetto Photo

Luthier Benedetto leads you step-by-step through the creation of one of his fine archtop jazz guitars. Profusely illustrated in b&w, with 12 pages of color plates and pull-out section of design templates. 260pp.
400-1 $39.95

MANUAL OF GUITAR TECHNOLOGY - THE HISTORY AND TECHNOLOGY OF PLUCKED STRING INSTRUMENTS by Franz Jahnel Photo

New softcover reissue! A very comprehensive overview of acoustic guitar construction. Begins with a historical review of guitar development, moves into an extensive section on materials (including 700 wood types, finishes, and a technical and chemical glossary listing 356 materials), acoustic principles, and section on the construction of guitars, lutes, and citterns with working drawings of 18 instruments. Also includes a section on string manufacturing and materials used. A must for any instrument workshop. Softcover. Comb-bound. 229 pp.
24-69 $70.00

MARTIN REPAIR MANUAL by Lester Wagner Photo

The standard-issue repair manual published by the Martin Guitar Co., the most revered name in acoustic guitars. Concise instructions with photos on nearly every page. 30 pp.
106-4 $9.95

SETUP AND MAINTENANCE - THE PLAYER'S GUIDE TO GUITAR CARE by John Carruthers Photo

Case-size book with simple step-by-step instructions and photos - taught by a legendary guitar builder. Teaches you how to set the action, intonation, and adjust the truss rod, change strings, clean & polish, more. With instructions on soldering and maintenance of electronics. 47 pp.
20-18479 $6.95

STEEL-STRING GUITAR CONSTRUCTION by Irving Sloane Photo

Acoustic six-string, 12 string, and arched-top guitar manual filled with the basics and knowledge needed to build these guitars. Illustrated throughout. 128 pp.
24-25 $27.95

THE ACOUSTIC GUITAR: VOL 1 - ADJUSTMENT, CARE, MAINTENANCE, AND REPAIR by Don E. Teeter Photo

Long a staple in the reference section of any comprehensive music shelf. This encyclopedic treatment gives instructions for major and minor repairs, inlay work, and refinishing; with detailed descriptions of the tools and materials needed. 200 pp.
80-3 $32.95

THE ART OF TAP TUNING - HOW TO BUILD GREAT SOUND INTO INSTRUMENTS by Roger H. Siminoff Photo

Book/DVD pack. Explains tap tuning and how to use it to obtain the very best tonal qualities when building acoustic string instruments. Begins with a treatise on musical acoustics and takes you through the various steps in the process of tuning the soundboard, backboard, and air chamber of an instrument. Includes an exploration of the tools and equipment needed, methods to excite tones in the instrument, how to make necessary changes, and how to achieve consistency and repeatability. Focuses on tap tuning as it relates to mandolins, guitars, banjos, violins, ukuleles, dulcimers, more. The DVD includes demonstrations of the acoustic phenomena described in the text. 48 pp.
49-331478 $34.95

THE CENTURY THAT SHAPED THE GUITAR by James Westbrook 3 Photos

Explores the history of the 19th century guitar through nine special instruments from The Guitar Museum. Very well-written and researched. Period photos, newspaper write-ups and more are included to accompany the engaging histories of the players & luthiers. Utilizing the latest technology to help tell the stories of the guitars, there is a section on dendrochronology. In this process the woods used for the soundboards are approximately dated and analyzed. Recommended. High quality paper, 180 pp.
612-2 $46.25

THE GUITAR PLAYER REPAIR GUIDE - 3RD REVISED EDITION by Dan Erlewine Photo

Book/DVD pack. Newly expanded edition of this indispensable step-by-step manual for maintaining and repairing electric and acoustic guitars and basses. Learn how to adjust your own truss rod, install tuners, close and glue cracks, replace a nut, make finish repairs, wind your own pickups, and much, much more. Content is now highlighted based on skill level: Basic, D.I.Y., and Deep. New features include stronger coverage of guitar electronics, including pickups and wiring diagrams and expanded coverage of acoustics. DVD features segments on: how to evaluate any guitar before buying, how to set your own intonation, how to install strings without damaging your guitar, more. 321 pp.
49-331793 $29.95

THE GUITARIST'S GUIDE TO SET-UP & MAINTENANCE by Charlie Chandler Photo

Learn how to carry out basic maintenance and repairs, all of which can be done yourself, without the need for professional assistance. Includes: how to strip down and clean your instrument, how to set the action, how regular maintenance can improve your guitar and your playing. Lavishly illustrated with over a hundred diagrams and photographs. Includes special troubleshooting tips to help you solve common problems like fret buzz, chips and cracks in paint work, electrical problems, intonation, more. 55 pp.
49-695887 $9.95

THE LUTHIER'S HANDBOOK by Roger H. Siminoff Photo

For the instrument builder, this book explores the secrets and science behind making good sounding acoustic string instruments. Describes the structural and acoustical attributes of air chambers, what to listen for when tap-tuning, selecting a good piece of wood, placement of the braces and tone bars and how to tune them, how to select the right strings, what to consider in bridge design concepts, more. 128 pp.
49-330538 $22.95

TRADE SECRETS BOOK 2 Photo

Begins where book 1 ended, with back issues from volumes 21-38. Reprints of all of the "Trade Secrets" that have appeared in the Stewart-MacDonald Guitar Shop Supply Catalog, plus installments 9-26 of Mike Lindskold's "Guitar Wiring 101" columns. Includes tips on tools, building and repair advice and techniques. Lots of useful information! 165 pp.
325-4 $19.95

Guitar Repair and Construction
Violin Building
Dulcimer Building
Amplifier Building and Repair
Building and Repair - Other Instruments

Violin Building

CREMONA VIOLINS & VARNISH by Charles Reade Photo

A facsimile reprint of an 1873 booklet that revived the lost art of Cremona violins and its famous varnish. A must-have for luthiers and violin history aficionados. 39 pp.
41-2 $4.95

THE ART OF TAP TUNING - HOW TO BUILD GREAT SOUND INTO INSTRUMENTS by Roger H. Siminoff Photo

Book/DVD pack. Explains tap tuning and how to use it to obtain the very best tonal qualities when building acoustic string instruments. Begins with a treatise on musical acoustics and takes you through the various steps in the process of tuning the soundboard, backboard, and air chamber of an instrument. Includes an exploration of the tools and equipment needed, methods to excite tones in the instrument, how to make necessary changes, and how to achieve consistency and repeatability. Focuses on tap tuning as it relates to mandolins, guitars, banjos, violins, ukuleles, dulcimers, more. The DVD includes demonstrations of the acoustic phenomena described in the text. 48 pp.
49-331478 $34.95

THE ART OF VIOLIN MAKING by Chris Johnson and Roy Courtnall 5 Photos

A major, exciting new work for the craftsman, bringing into one volume a summary of essential information for the violin maker and player, as well as providing a historical reference. Part One: The violin makers - devoted to separate chapters on the life and work of some of the greatest makers. Part Two: The workshop, tools, and materials - essential information on the tools and working enviroment needed by violin makers. Part Three: Violin construction - a detailed, step-by-step guide to the traditional method of violin making, based on the system employed at the Newark School of Violin Making in England. Filled with outstanding photos and illustrations. Foreword by Yehudi Menuhin. Hardcover, 253 pp.
on order, expected arrival date unknown
530-1 $130.00

THE VIOLIN MAKER'S GUIDE by H.E. Brown Photo

A hand-held guide and overview on making a violin. Filled with illustrations and photos making the directions clear and simple. Contains actual-sized blueprints. Makes an Antonio Stradivari style. 50 pp.
41-1 $7.75

THE VIOLIN MAKER: FINDING A CENTURIES OLD TRADITION IN A BROOKLYN WORKSHOP by John Marchese Photo

Celebrated Brooklyn violin-maker Sam Zygmuntowicz recently accepted a challenging commission from violinist Eugene Drucker of the Emerson String Quartet: to make a new violin that would equal Drucker's beloved Stradivarius. This documents their collaboration, capturing the exacting scrape-by-scrape process. Along the way Marchese goes on a pilgrimage to Stradivarius's hometown of Cremona and delves into the secrets behind the maestro's incomparable sound. Was it the wood? The varnish? He suggests a more prosaic, if no less marvelous, possibility - that the genius of craftsmanship resides not in magic ingredients or arcane techniques, but simply in taking infinite, exhausting pains with the work. Written in a free-flowing style based on interviews and observation. Hardcover, 222 pp.
542-162 $24.95

VIOLIN AND CELLO BUILDING AND REPAIRING by Robert Alton Photo

Expert instruction from the International Luthiers Supply group. Chapters cover "suitable woods: making the mould," through cutting, purfling, fitting, varnishing, stringing, repairs, to making a violin bow. The second part of the book does the same for cello. 55 pp.
41-15 $9.95

VIOLIN OWNER'S MANUAL - THE COMPLETE GUIDE Photo

Here's the book that should have come with your violin! Written by a team of instrument makers, repairers, and musicians, this comprehensive guide will help you select, understand, preserve, and protect any violin. Covers: selecting the proper instrument and bow, understanding common repairs, finding the right maker, guarding against theft, getting a good setup, protecting your violin, choosing a case, more. With glossary of terms. 158 pp.
49-330762 $14.95

VIOLIN REPAIR GUIDE by Michael Atria Photo

A must for instrument owners, this guide provides illustrated step-by-step instructions for bow rehairing, repair and restoration of the violin, viola, cello and string bass. Features more than 100 clearly detailed illustrations, appendices with standard measurements, tools and materials, and a glossary. 62 pp.
49-331150 $9.95

VIOLIN-MAKING: A HISTORICAL AND PRACTICAL GUIDE by Edward Heron-Allen Photo

This volume traces the instrument's history, discusses the materials used in violin making, and offers guidance on construction. Written by an apprentice to one of the world's greatest violin makers, it is considered essential reading by instrument makers and performers alike. Profusely illustrated. Republication of the London, 1885 edition. 372 pp.
542-133 $19.95

Guitar Repair and Construction
Violin Building
Dulcimer Building
Amplifier Building and Repair
Building and Repair - Other Instruments

Dulcimer Building

A DULCIMER BUILDER'S REFERENCE by Scott E. Antes Photo

General advice on various aspects of appalachian dulcimer construction. 35 pp.
113-100 $14.00

BOOK OF: HAMMERS - A COMPLETE KIT FOR BUILDING DULCIMER HAMMERS by W. Wells Johnson, Jr. Photo

This unique package provides everything you'll need to make your own hammers! Includes the wood: maple blanks for the hammers and exotic woods for the handles, as well as leather strips to attach to the hammers. The instruction book is simple but thorough and includes design templates and patterns for 9" and 8" hammers. Comb-bound.
677-1 $55.00

BUILDING A HAMMERED DULCIMER: DO KIT YOURSELF by Rick Fogel& N. A. Martin Photo

A concise book of instructions for building the dulcimer and playing it. Best for someone with some planing, clamping and glueing experience. 5 songs in tablature included. 35 pp.
08-42 $7.95

CONSTRUCTING THE MOUNTAIN DULCIMER by Dean Kimball Photo

Kimball does a very thorough job of showing how to make this unique instrument. There are many diagrams and photos, as well as fret tables, finish information, playing instructions, and a history of the mountain dulcimer. 102 pp.
08-47 $14.95

DULCIMER MAKER: THE CRAFT OF HOMER LEDFORD by R. Gerald Alvey, new foreword by Ron Pen Photo

The reissue of this classic book celebrates the work of a master craftsman and musician. A legend among dulcimer makers, Ledford is known for his innovative but traditional craftmanship. Both a biography and step-by-step guide to dulcimer making. With 63 photos. Second ed., revised. 197 pp.
on order, expected arrival date unknown
542-81 $19.95

HOW TO BUILD A HAMMERED DULCIMER by Phillip Mason Photo

Construct a strong, responsive instrument with a minimum of tools and fancy materials. In print since 1975, Mason's book also shows you how to make a hardshell case, hammers and a folding stand. He finishes with tuning and playing fundamentals. 28 pp.
08-23 $8.95

THE ART OF TAP TUNING - HOW TO BUILD GREAT SOUND INTO INSTRUMENTS by Roger H. Siminoff Photo

Book/DVD pack. Explains tap tuning and how to use it to obtain the very best tonal qualities when building acoustic string instruments. Begins with a treatise on musical acoustics and takes you through the various steps in the process of tuning the soundboard, backboard, and air chamber of an instrument. Includes an exploration of the tools and equipment needed, methods to excite tones in the instrument, how to make necessary changes, and how to achieve consistency and repeatability. Focuses on tap tuning as it relates to mandolins, guitars, banjos, violins, ukuleles, dulcimers, more. The DVD includes demonstrations of the acoustic phenomena described in the text. 48 pp.
49-331478 $34.95

Guitar Repair and Construction
Violin Building
Dulcimer Building
Amplifier Building and Repair
Building and Repair - Other Instruments

Amplifier Building and Repair

BOOK ONLY - HOW TO SERVICE YOUR OWN TUBE AMP by Tom Mitchell Photo

"A complete guide for the curious musician" on how to maintain, service, and modify tube guitar amps. A good overall guide that also serves as a crash course in electronics. With voltage charts for 30 popular models. 247 pp., comb-bound.
on order, expected arrival date unknown
320-1 $29.95

DIY SPEAKER CABINETS FOR MUSICAL INSTRUMENT APPLICATIONS by Kevin O'Connor Photo

Learn how to build your own speaker cabinets for guitar, bass, or keyboards. Covers speaker cabinet design with a focus on high-efficiency and maximum tonal capture from a given driver. Discusses driver characteristics, selection, mixing and interactions, and reviews stage set-ups. Outlines construction and finishing techniques with designs for 1x, 2x, and 4x10", 12" and 15" cabinets. Comb-bound. 76 pp.
451-6 $19.00

GREAT TUBE AMP AND GUITAR MODS by Mike Thompson Photo

Over 50 useful modifications for Fender and Marshall amps, electric guitars, and speaker cabinets, plus equipment tips. Lots of practical information, presented in an easy-going manner for all levels of expertise. 150 pp.
24-61 $19.95

INSIDE TUBE AMPS by Dan Torres Photo

Virtually everything you'll ever need to know about tube amps is packed into this easy-to-read book from the Vintage Guitar Magazine columnist. Learn the basics of repair, modifications and how to build your own Class A amp. Good for beginners through advanced repair people. 310 pp.
on order, expected arrival date unknown
433-1 $45.00

PRINCIPLES OF POWER - A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO TUBE POWER AMPLIFIER DESIGN by Kevin O'Connor Photo

In-depth coverage of vacuum tubes, power supplies, amp essentials, toroidal designs, OTL valve amps, hybrid amps and much more. Comb-bound. 230 pp.
451-2 $44.00

READY SET GO! - AN ELECTRONICS REFERENCE FOR THE EVERYMAN by Kevin O'Connor Photo

You may already have an interest in a specialized area of electronics such as audio, amps, computer hardware, or ham radio, but before you start, you must begin the basics. This guide covers schematic symbols, current, voltage, inductance, Ohm's and Lenz's laws, standard notation and prefixes, resistor and capacitor color codes, much more! Spiralbound, 82 pp.
451-5 $28.00

THE GUITAR AMP HANDBOOK - UNDERSTANDING TUBE AMPLIFIERS AND GETTING GREAT SOUNDS by Dave Hunter Photo

Cuts through the marketing hyperbole and supplies all the information you need to choose the right amp and get the best from it. Covers: which types of tubes and what circuits produce classic-rock distrotion, the way to find an amp's sonic "sweet spot," how speakers and cabs contribute to your tone, and modifications that can be made to improve your amp. Also includes instructions on how to build your own genuine class A amp from readily available parts, exclusive interviews with top designers and manufacturers, glossary, and an appendix of tube types. 240 pp.
49-331349 $24.95

THE TUBE AMP BOOK - DELUXE REVISED EDITION by Aspen Pittman 5 Photos

Book/CDROM pack. Now even better with 40% new material and an improved design and page layout. Features 100 pages on amp companies alone, technical articles, mods inluding "blackfacing" Fender amps with detailed instructions, mods for Marshall, Hiwatt, Vox, Ampeg, tube conversion instructions, 200 pages of schematics and a CDROM with 800 additional schematics. The schematics can be zoomed and enlarged. The book's tips, in-depth specs and explanations, rare schematics, and full-color plates make it a must-have for tube-tone fanatics. Spiralbound hardcover. 379 pp.
49-331091 $49.95

THE ULTIMATE TONE - MODIFYING AND CUSTOM BUILDING TUBE GUITAR AMPS by Kevin O'Connor Photo

A very comprehensive publication covering how guitar amps are built. Helps demystify the secret art of amp modification. Comb-bound. 372 pp.
451-1 $72.00

THE ULTIMATE TONE, VOL. 4: ADVANCED METHODS FOR MODERN GUITAR AMP DESIGN by Kevin O'Connor Photo

Outlines, in schematic form, many approaches that achieve the goal of Power Scaling. Gives a complete history and discourse on the technology, outlining how to implement multiple Power Scale controls, alternative circuit forms and the system impacts. Fully integrated systems are presented with full explanations of the choice of components, choice of circuits and how to make seamless installations into existing equipment. Includes tutorials for Super Scaling, with both fixed and variable boost ratios, using both solid-state and tube methods. Power Management in its greater context is explored, covering AC and DC current limiting, voltage restoration, voltage clamping, composite zener circuit applications - the latest trend in tube amp biasing, and much more. 548 figures (schematics). Comb-bound. 417 pp.
on order, expected arrival date unknown
451-8 $110.00

THE ULTIMATE TONE, VOLUME 3: GENERATIONS OF TONE by Kevin O'Connor Photo

There are certain tones anyone can recognize. This construction-oriented book investigates how these "iconic" sounds and circuits are created, how to create new ones, and how to improve upon age-old circuit methods. Covers issues of circuit compromise and historical relevance, explores the compromises introduced if you want to build the same circuit in a physically different style, tricks to improve various iconic circuits, more. Presents both bass and guitar systems. Includes schematic and layout drawings for each icon, practical guidance for the order of construction, incremental testing, wiring techniques, more. Build the amp you really want, or modify an existing amp to your own needs. Comb-bound. 304 pp.
451-7 $72.00

THE ULTIMATE TONE, VOLUME 5: TONE CAPTURE by Kevin O'Connor Photo

Every part of your system contributes to your Ultimate Tone, so every part is important. This book describes what each electronic component in a circuit does, and how alterations affect the final sound. Optimization of interstage attenuators using repeatable techniques that let the circuit builder "see" where sustain is being lost is covered, transformer specifications are standardized and demystified, a simple procedure for matching output and power transformers is presented with examples and suggested combinations, more. Follows the project format of TUT3 including tube Super Scalers up to 450W, the Swede all-tube guitar amp, the Stentorian for loud clean bass, dumpster projects using inexpensive parts, more. 183 schematics and layouts. Comb-bound. 277 pp.
on order, expected arrival date unknown
451-9 $66.00

TONNES OF TONE - ELECTRONIC PROJECTS FOR GUITAR AND BASS by Kevin O'Connor Photo

Chapters include: Acoustic Preamps, Experimenter's Power Supply, Guitar Preamp, Bass Preamps, Tube Power Amp, The Hood Amp, more. A very concise book, to help you get the most out of your amps and pickups. Comb-bound. 116 pp.
451-3 $32.00

TUBE GUITAR AMPLIFIER ESSENTIALS by Gerald Weber Photo

From the amp guru and columnist for Vintage Guitar magazine this future classic features more than 60 easy-reading chapters de-mystifying the complex world of tube amplifiers. Written for the guitarist who wants to squeeze every ounce of performance from their amp, it covers the basic knowledge and practical steps for working with a tube amp, including: the four parts of a guitar amplifier, bias explained and defined, converting a solid state rectifier to tube, tube substitutions in guitar amps, tranformers, easy speaker fixes, troubleshooting, modifications, amp building, and much more. 529 pp.
49-331368 $34.95

TUBE TALK FOR THE GUITARIST AND TECH by Gerald Weber Photo

Thick compendium of everything you may need to know to understand, service and maintain your tube amp from the popular "Vintage Guitar" magazine columnist -- includes amp expert Ken Fischer's "Trainwreck Pages." 537 pp.
on order, expected arrival date 07/10/08
386-2 $37.95

VACUUM TUBE GUITAR AND BASS AMPLIFIER SERVICING by Tino Zottola Photo

Comprehensive manual helps beginners and pros keep their amps up and running. Straightforward and easy-to-read, but NOT for the technologically-impaired. 88 pp.
24-60 $23.95

Guitar Repair and Construction
Violin Building
Dulcimer Building
Amplifier Building and Repair
Building and Repair - Other Instruments

Building and Repair - Other Instruments

COMPLETE BANJO REPAIR by Larry Sandberg Photo

The setup, maintainence, and restoration of the five-string banjo. An indispensable guide for the amateur as well as the professional repair person. Each procedure is clearly explained and illustrated with detailed photographs and diagrams. Recommended. 112 pp.
01-000227 $24.95

CONSTRUCTING A 5-STRING BANJO: A COMPLETE TECHNICAL GUIDE by Roger H. Siminoff Photo

Plans and instructions for building a resonator bluegrass banjo. Lots of photos. Spiral bound. Plus full-size blueprints. 64 pp.
49-105 $16.95

ELECTRONICS PROJECTS FOR MUSICIANS by Craig Anderton Photo

Shows you how to build your own preamp, compressor/limiter, ring modulator, phase shifter, talk box +22 other inexpensive electronic accessories. Hundred of diagrams and illustrations. CD included. 220 pp.
01-260002 $29.95

FRETWORK, STEP BY STEP Photo

Put out by the experts of the Stewart-MacDonald staff. Chapters include different styles of fretting, compound vs. cylindrical radii, compression fretting techniques, guide to tools and their uses. Nearly 1000 photos and illustrations, including 7 step-by-step photocourses. 125 pp.
325-3 $24.95

HOW TO BUILD YOUR OWN EFFECT PEDALS, A STEP BY STEP GUIDE by Brian Wampler Photo

A wealth of information for the Do-it-yourselfer, including tools needed, how and why to use breadboards, capacitor codes, where to buy parts - including several web sites, how to paint your box, much more! Easy to understand and no experience necessary! Shows you how to simply and easily build your own effects pedals and perform advanced modifications on your existing pedals. Lots of photos and clear language. Spiralbound, 100 pp.
662-1 $49.00

HOW TO SET UP THE BEST SOUNDING BANJO by Roger H. Siminoff Photo

Finally, THE book on banjo setup! Step-by-step instructions cover neck angle, heel fit, tailpiece angle, head adjustments, bridge selection and much more! With more than 60 photos and illustrations, and a section on amplification tips by Earl Scruggs! 66 pp.
49-330367 $16.95

MAKING DRUMS by Dennis Waring Photo

A good overview of the principles of drum making along with plenty of information for building your own drums. The first part of this full-color book explains the basics of drum bodies, acoustics, creating and attaching drumheads, and the Mali weave. The latter half is devoted to nine specific drum projects: five frame drums (Irish, Middle Eastern, Indian, Latin and primitive), two staved drums, carved drums and clay drums. Even covers unique aspects such as preparing animal hides, lacing patterns for attaching heads to drums, and tuning the finished drum. 96 pp.
01-910500 $12.95

PEARL INLAY: AN INSTRUCTION MANUAL FOR INLAYING ABALONE AND MOTHER-OF-PEARL by James E. Patterson Photo

Tools, tips, and techniques for helping the experienced luthier or woodworker learn the exacting art of pearl inlay. 81 pp.
110-1 $14.95

THE ART OF INLAY - DESIGN & TECHNIQUE FOR FINE WOODWORKING, REVISED & EXPANDED by Larry Robinson Photo

This dazzling showcase of the art of inlay provides artistic inspiration as well as how-to instruction and design insights. Over 100 color photographs show exquisite inlays in musical instruments, wooden boxes, and various objects d'art, while black-and-white photos and drawings guide you through the intricate process of creating your own. The book has been revised and expanded throughout, including an additional 16-page gallery of inlay examples. 128 pp.
49-331289 $22.95

THE ART OF TAP TUNING - HOW TO BUILD GREAT SOUND INTO INSTRUMENTS by Roger H. Siminoff Photo

Book/DVD pack. Explains tap tuning and how to use it to obtain the very best tonal qualities when building acoustic string instruments. Begins with a treatise on musical acoustics and takes you through the various steps in the process of tuning the soundboard, backboard, and air chamber of an instrument. Includes an exploration of the tools and equipment needed, methods to excite tones in the instrument, how to make necessary changes, and how to achieve consistency and repeatability. Focuses on tap tuning as it relates to mandolins, guitars, banjos, violins, ukuleles, dulcimers, more. The DVD includes demonstrations of the acoustic phenomena described in the text. 48 pp.
49-331478 $34.95

THE CONCERTINA MAINTENANCE MANUAL by David Elliott Photo

Covers fault-finding charts, basic examination and purchase advice through the common service and repair jobs and techniques to some of the more sensitive reed work. Intended to cover all of the concertina systems, this edition goes out of its way to be versatile without sacrificing detail. Whether intending to carry out running repairs, service, restore or just know more about the innards of that strange and fascinating instrument, this is an essential addition to the concertina players toolkit. Considerably expanded from the first edition in both breadth and depth. 52 pp.
02-110 $18.45

THE MANDOLIN MANUAL: THE ART, CRAFT AND SCIENCE OF THE MANDOLIN AND MANDOLA by John Troughton Photo

A complete workshop guide for amateurs and woodworkers for constructing instruments of the mandolin family: mandolins, tenor and octave mandola. Includes detailed instructions on: construction techniques; the nature of wood, adhesives, and other materials; the acoustics and dynamics of the bridge, belly, and sound box; as well as string technology, tone theory, optimum performance, and playability. With an overview of the origins of mandolins and grid-scale plans for all the instruments' templates and critical dimensions. 175 color photos and drawings. Hardcover, 160 pp.
542-62 $50.00

THE MANDOLIN PROJECT by Graham McDonald Photo

A workshop manual that guides you through the construction of four mandolins with different styles of construction: a flat-top/flat-back, a bent-top/flat-back, a Celtic carved-top/flat-back, and a fully carved A style. Includes plans for for all major components and is comprehensively illustrated with photographs and diagrams. The introductory chapter is a history of mandolin construction over the last 300 years, illustrated with color photos of rare and unusual instruments. Spiral bound. 161 pp.
704-1 $37.50

THE ULTIMATE BLUEGRASS MANDOLIN CONSTRUCTION MANUAL by Roger H. Siminoff Photo

The most complete step-by-step treatise on building an F-style mandolin ever written. Siminoff applies over four decades of experience to guide you through detailed chapters covering: the basics of musical acoustics, how to select the right woods, cutting and shaping the neck, carving the soundboard and backboard, bending the rim, assembling the body, using tap tuning to adjust the soundboard and tone bars, inlaying mother of pearl and abalone, fretting the fingerboard, color finishing and building grain contrast, final assembly. A special highlight is the in-depth chapter on the art of tap tuning. Boasts hundreds of detailed photos, a full-color section on the staining and finishing process, numerous detailed illustrations, and a bonus set of 20 full-size blueprints. Luthier John Monteleone says: "I highly recommend this manual to anyone who might have the slightest notion to build a bluegrass mandolin for themselves. For even those folks who think that they might not have the required skills for making a fine musical instrument like this, just reading this invaluable resource of information might help them to better understand and appreciate how they are made." Comb-bound. 144 pp.
49-331088 $34.95

TRADE SECRETS BOOK 1 Photo

Reprints of all of the "Trade Secrets" that have appeared in the Stewart-MacDonald Guitar Shop Supply Catalog, plus a new 8-page bonus volume created for this book. Tips on new tools, building and repair advice and techniques. Lots of useful information in one handy book. 124 pp.
325-2 $19.95

VIOLIN AND CELLO BUILDING AND REPAIRING by Robert Alton Photo

Expert instruction from the International Luthiers Supply group. Chapters cover "suitable woods: making the mould," through cutting, purfling, fitting, varnishing, stringing, repairs, to making a violin bow. The second part of the book does the same for cello. 55 pp.
41-15 $9.95