Premier Guitar features affiliate links to help support our content. We may earn a commission on any affiliated purchases.

Acoustic Soundboard

This Delgado 6-string tres reflects the instrument’s global history. It’s made with a Sitka spruce top, Mexican rosewood back and sides, a Macassar ebony bridge, African ebony fretboard, and African mahogany neck.

Our columnist traces the history of the 6-string Cuban tres—from Africa, to Cuba, to the top of American country music.

I love that I was taught by my father and grandfather to build a variety of string instruments. I have continued to do this—I have built so many different types, and I learn from each one. I am currently building a nanga, a rectangular, harp-like African instrument played by the Ganda people of Uganda.

Read MoreShow less

Keith Urban’s first instrument was a ukulele at age 4. When he started learning guitar two years later, he complained that it made his fingers hurt. Eventually, he came around. As did the world.

Throughout his over-30-year career, Keith Urban has been known more as a songwriter than a guitarist. Here, he shares about his new release, High, and sheds light on all that went into the path that led him to becoming one of today’s most celebrated country artists.

There are superstars of country and rock, chart-toppers, and guitar heroes. Then there’s Keith Urban. His two dozen No. 1 singles and boatloads of awards may not eclipse George Strait or Garth Brooks, but he’s steadily transcending the notion of what it means to be a country star.

Read MoreShow less
Photo courtesy of Martin

Chris Martin gives readers some key reminders about choosing and maintaining their acoustic guitar strings.

At Martin, we as builders and players understand the impact that guitar strings can have on the tone, playability, and longevity of our instruments. No matter how long you’ve been playing, selecting the right set of strings and properly caring for them can significantly enhance your experience with your guitar.

Read MoreShow less

Micah Blue Smaldone

Photo by Matthew Robbins

Our columnist asks his favorite acoustic players how their hometowns, new and old, have changed the music they make.

As musicians, we tend to put most of our mental energy into the “next thing”: that next song, show, tour, or piece of gear. The beauty of music-making is that there is always somewhere new to go, but it’s also important to remember that we all came from somewhere. In this column, I connect with some excellent acoustic players about the places that shaped their playing and their craft, where they started and where their music has taken them.

Read MoreShow less

For his personal line, our columnist prefers these Ohio-built Waverly tuning machines, thanks to their light weight and unassuming footprint.

Unique, high-end guitar tuners and replacement parts offer new levels of customization for modern players.

In my previous installment of Acoustic Soundboard, I explored the significance of tuners, their replacement options, and the importance of preserving the authenticity of vintage guitars. I also delved into acceptable choices for both new and vintage guitars, as well as the considerations for custom boutique instruments. This time, let’s dig a bit deeper on boutique tuners and how to properly outfit a custom guitar.

Read MoreShow less