JTal Guitars / From the workshop

Tech Talk.

Guitar setup, repairs and the decisions that go into a custom build. Written by John Talman.

How to set up a Floyd Rose: 5 must-know tips

Five setup checks for a Floyd Rose, from bridge angle and locking-nut contact to saddle screws and settling new strings.

5 articles

A sitar-like buzz can come from poor string contact at the locking nut. How I find the source and approach the repair.

What to ask about parts, fretwork, setup and support when comparing a custom shop guitar, a boutique build or a partscaster.

The details to settle before a custom build: tuning, neck feel, bridge choice, controls, finish, budget and timing.

The repair of my uncle’s 1982 Telecaster led to a workshop, a few prototypes and JTal Guitars.