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I'm curious about the two lower back braces shown on the Martin dred plans that I have. Are there any advantages/disadvantages to using the lower, wider braces shown on the plans, compared to the taller, narrower braces shown for the two upper back braces?

The bracing change was done in the mid 80's. The lower wider braced I think allow for more involvement of the back. It was a warranty issue that caused the change . The newer design are stiffer . You will see more humidity movement with the lower brace so be sure you glue up in a safe range of RH.

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John Hall
blues creek guitars
Authorized CF Martin Repair
Co President of ASIA
You Don't know what you don't know until you know it

Do a Search for Al Carruth's posts on back bracing and the relative effects of Low/wide vs Tall/thin.

He has a couple interesting opinions on the subject based on his testing.

Thanks

John

Thanks John and John! I have been using the lower, wider back braces, but thought I would ask about the difference since it appeared that many have switched to the higher, narrower braces.

I think that I'll continue using the lower, wider braces.