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Frequently Asked Questions
- If I order a guitar from you ... ?
- How long does it take to get a Lucas guitar ... ?
- How do I get on your building list ... ?
- What's the scoop on the J-neck design you are using on your new SJ, LJ, and LJ-35 Lucas model guitars .. ?
Thanks for your interest in my work and the great question. Excuse the long dissertation as my answer. My new neck design "the J neck" was so named for two reasons. My new models the SJ (Small Jumbo) and LJ (Large Jumbo) and the LJ-35 (Gibson style J-35 body) are all Jumbo Models and all utilize the new neck design thus the name J or Jumbo neck. Also, when I began the design of the peghead, I used the letter J upside down to form the basis of the outline. If you look at the E, A, and D tuner side of the peghead again on my site photos, you can see the shape was influenced this way.
The main reason for the name was that I really wanted to set the neck design apart from the classic Martin shape I use on my traditional models. It is my belief that the new neck design features are superior to the traditional neck for the following reasons: First, the use of the bookmatched three piece neck (often curly Maple or curly Mahogany) is stronger and more rigid due to lamination which increases sustain on notes up the neck. Secondly, I use a rear peghead veneer that comes to a V shape which extends to the first fret behind the neck which adds rigidity from the peghead to the neck shaft which again increases sustain and adds volume to the guitar. A soft neck material or one piece neck can really become an acoustic sponge which does not appeal to me or the players who use my guitars. Lastly, as you look at the neck transition from the 12th fret to the heel cap in a side view, you see an arc there on the back side of the neck. A flatter arc is a stronger design which keeps the neck from stretching with time reducing the need for a neck reset later in the guitars life. Taylor uses the flatter arc concept on their necks which is great, but some players object to the restricted access to the notes above the 12th fret as a result of having to reach across more wood to get to those notes. The sharper arc makes it easier to reach for higher notes but comes at a price. The sharper arc design (especially on one piece necks) often stretch to the point where a neck reset is often needed on old Martins due to string tension pulling the neck forward creating higher action.
As you can see, I've really thought this thing out. At least for now. Many ideas are still in the works. Hope it helps and let me know if you have further questions.
If I order a guitar from you how will I know I'll like it or not when I get it?
Certainly we will agree that there are risks in in the outcome of making a big decision like purchasing a custom hand crafted guitar. However, we can minimize the risk by doing two things. The first step is knowing what you want. This may sound silly to some of you, but I've seen players buy and sell lots of guitars in search of what they thought was right for them at the time. This will require you to do some research. It was this quest years ago that ultimately led me to become a guitar builder. Click on Finding a Guitar that's right for you.
The next step is communication. If I sense that you are not sure of what you want, I will take extra time to get to know your playing style, your needs, your tonal preferences, etc... Remember, I want you to be happy with your guitar too!
I've also found that people are happier with a guitar that has personalized features. For some, it's a custom neck shape or inlay pattern. For others it's a combination of special woods or whatever. People like taking an active role in building their guitar.
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How long does it take to get a Lucas guitar?
Delivery times fluctuate so it is best to call me. However, don't delay! I've received lots of orders lately!
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How do I get on your building list?
I require a deposit of one-third of the total price of your guitar to get on my building list. This locks you in on the price and estimated delivery date. The second third is due when the body is completed and the final third is due when the guitar is ready for shipment. You are responsible for shipping and insurance costs.
