Guides

A neck reset is a significant repair, and the term gets used too casually. Here's what it actually involves and how to tell if you need one.

Even a guitar fresh from a respected manufacturer can benefit from a setup. Here's why.

What frets actually do, how their size affects feel, and what fret wear means for your playing.

The truss rod does a huge amount of work without ever being seen. Here's what it is and why your guitar needs one.

What actually determines string tension, and why it matters for how a guitar feels and sounds.

Drop D, Open D, Open G and DADGAD explained, plus a setup tip if you play in Drop D regularly.

Understanding the octave and unison string pairs is the key to tuning a 12-string guitar properly.

How standard tuning works, and a few reliable ways to get there with or without an electronic tuner.

A plain-English guide to string materials, coatings and gauges, and what actually matters when choosing a set.

Nylon strings tie on rather than clamp in. Here's how to restring a classical or flamenco guitar properly.

A step-by-step guide to restringing a steel-string acoustic guitar, from removing old strings to settling in a fresh set.

Thinking about collecting acoustic guitars more deliberately? Here's a practical, step-by-step guide to doing it well.