Why Breedlove Sound Optimization™ Makes Traditional Guitar Manufacturing Obsolete
The Science Behind Superior Sound
After 40 years of playing guitars, I can tell you that most guitar manufacturers are still building instruments the same way they did in the 1950s. But Breedlove Guitars has revolutionized acoustic guitar construction with their proprietary Sound Optimization™ process - and the difference is measurable, not just marketing hype.
The Problem with Traditional Manufacturing
Here's what most guitar companies don't want you to know: wood varies by up to 30% within the same tree, and 100% between different species. Yet traditional manufacturers sand all tops and backs to predetermined dimensions, completely ignoring these natural variations. The result? Random sound quality, even within the same model.
How Sound Optimization™ Actually Works
Breedlove builds guitars by frequency, density, and deflection - NOT by dimension. Here's their revolutionary process:
1. Individual Wood Analysis
Every tonewood set is analyzed for density, deflection, and frequency response before construction begins. No two guitars are built exactly the same because no two pieces of wood are identical.
2. Playing Style Optimization
Guitars are crafted to specific playing styles:
- H (Heavy): Stiffer tops for strumming and flat picking
- V (Versatile): Medium response for varied playing styles
- L (Light): More responsive tops for fingerstyle clarity
3. Top/Back Frequency Separation
The back is tuned to a higher frequency than the top, with precise separation ratios for each body size. A Concerto gets larger separation for 'big, full sound,' while a Concertina uses less separation for 'clear note definition.'
4. Hand Voicing Station
This is where science meets art. Each braced top is tapped through a microphone into an FFT frequency analyzer. If the frequency is too high, craftsmen use finger planes to carve the bracing until it reaches the target frequency. The same process fine-tunes the back for optimal separation.
Measurable Results
Every completed Breedlove includes documentation of its individual specifications: date completed, weight, playing style rating, top thickness and frequency, back thickness and frequency, and fundamental resonance. You get a birth certificate for your guitar.
Why This Matters for Players
While other manufacturers 'accept the randomness of sound,' Breedlove guarantees that every guitar of the same model sounds consistent and delivers exactly the tone and feel promised. You're not gambling on whether you get a good one - every Breedlove is optimized.
Sustainability Meets Innovation
Breedlove's commitment extends beyond sound. Tom Bedell has personally visited forests in 15 countries to ensure sustainable sourcing. They use no clear-cut woods and own the world's largest collection of legally documented Brazilian rosewood.
Experience the Difference
At El Cajon Guitars and Music, we carry the complete Breedlove line because after 40 years of playing, I know the difference between marketing claims and measurable innovation. Browse our Breedlove collection and experience what Sound Optimization™ can do for your music.
Free shipping on all Breedlove guitars. Each instrument comes professionally set up and ready to inspire your best playing.
