Carter Steel Guitars Presents:
PEDAL STEEL GUITAR ILLUSTRATED
Pedal Steel Guitar
Parts Function Map -- DESCRIPTIONS
(TOP View)
Question:
What Are CABINETS (Bodies) and What Materials Are Used in Them?
Answer:
Bodies can be made from a variety of materials. The most common is wood, specifically, hard-rock, curly, or birdseye Maple. Other woods can be used; however, for structural integrity, harder woods typically are used. Some manufacturers are using an all-maple dieboard, which is a high-quality plywood.
Cabinets can be finished in a variety of ways, including
- Laminate-covered wood (formica, mica, etc.);
- Lacquer-finished wood ("painted");
- Stick-on vinyl covering over wood (original MCI, for example); and
- Stained and lacquered veneer over wood.
Aluminum is often also used in the body construction as bracing, to form a complete frame over which the wood is attached, or to form a back apron. Some aluminum frames are welded and wooden inserts are dropped in for the top decks.
See also:
- "Ask Bud!" Article: Cabinet Drop: Causes and Solutions
- "Ask Bud!" Article: Detuning: Physical Detuning
