Takamine
Guitar Care
Here
are the basics on keeping your guitar in tip-top shape. The four most
important things you need to do for your guitar:
1. Keep it clean
2. Keep it comfortable
3. Don't hurt it
4. Play the heck out of it
Keep it clean:
There are many fine cleaning products available for your
guitar at your local music store. Invest in a good polish and a couple
of lint-free polishing rags.
- Wipe the strings down with a dry
cloth after playing. Use guitar polish sparingly on the rest of the
guitar.
-
- If the strings are dead or
discolored, change them. We use D'Addario EXP16s from the factory. We
use 4444 Adamas for nylon string models and EXP26 for our 12-string
models. For routine changes, change strings one at a time. This will
put less stress on the truss rod.
-
- On satin finishes, the wood will
take on a nice patina (shine) over time. Again, use your polish
sparingly!
-
- Use lemon oil or a "conditioner" on
the fingerboard and bridge a couple of times a year, or if the wood
looks dry. You'll need to take off all of the strings to do this.
Keep it comfortable:
Generally, if you are comfortable, your guitar will be
comfortable. Try to keep the temperature moderate and keep the guitar
between 40-60% humidity. Use a humidifier in the case or room if:
- You frequently run the heat or air
conditioner.
-
- You are in the mountains or desert.
-
- You aren't sure.
-
- If you live by the shore, or on a
boat you probably don't need a humidifier. A desiccant (silicon pack)
in the case may be needed.
Don't hurt it:
- Do not shock your guitar or subject
it to extremes! If you are out in the snow, and enter a warm house or
club, do not open the case until the guitar inside has come up to
temperature.
-
- Do not leave your guitar in the
trunk of your car! (That will kill your guitar and you will be very
sad!)
-
- Make sure you have the proper case.
When you close the lid, be sure to latch it! Carry the case with the
lid towards you. Backwards down the stairs and forward going up.
-
- If you don't know what you are
doing with the truss rod, don't goof with it. Get to know a good
guitar tech.
-
- Don't tune it above pitch. The A
string should be 110 HZ or cycles per second. Electronic tuners are
inexpensive and reliable.
-
- If traveling by plane, be very
careful. Loosen all the strings on your guitar and use the best
fitting, best constructed case you can find.
Play the heck out of it:
Not only will you feel good and get a rush from playing
your guitar, but the more you play will help the solid woods to develop
tone. This also helps to keep you in touch with your guitar, should it
need maintenance.
On occasion, your guitar will require service. This might include a
truss rod adjustment and set up. If you play a lot, you will eventually
need your frets dressed or maybe a new saddle or nut.
|