“A huge Achilles heel with the non-traditionals”: What’s the hardest part about designing a fresh guitar? According to Novo Guitars, it’s probably not one you’d expect

Novo Guitars.

Nashville session player JD Simo and Novo Guitars' Travis Tingley believe that when it comes to developing fresh guitar designs, one particular part of the instrument accounts for “80%” of the focus – and if the design is wrong, the guitar will likely fail to win over players.

Designing new electric guitars in the modern era is one of the most difficult challenges that gear companies face. For every unique model on the market, there are countless copies of well-worn silhouettes inspired by classic instruments.