jaypatrick - Posted - 02/19/2019:  12:32:59

Hey y'all ... this sounds dumb as I type it, but I'm gonna ask it anyhow. Any thoughts on how much a cracked soundboard affects the Gallagher "ring"?



I have a '72 Gallagher G70 that does not have that signature Gallagher sound. It has a center check as well as a second small crack on the soundboard - but otherwise the body is in good shape. I've reached out to Steven Gallagher in hopes that he can take a look at it and tell me if the tone can be improved with a top fix.



I know the bridge plays an important role too. I'm just curious as to the chances that a good luthier can liven up this box up a bit. Thoughts?

Edited by - jaypatrick on 02/19/2019 12:36:21

Center check

 

UsuallyPickin - Posted - 02/21/2019:  05:46:33

Hmmm … not all guitars are going to sound as expected. Is that separation showing on the inside? Is this instrument well humidified. A visit to a luthier or the builder may make some difference in tone ... or none at all. That's the luck of the draw. But it is as important to have a talented luthier in your "employ" as it is to have a good mechanic. Technique , string choice and pick choice make great differences in an instruments tone. Luck R/

jaypatrick - Posted - 02/21/2019:  07:29:20

Thanks, Richard. Good question on the innards .. I'll get my trusty mirror and flashlight and see. Thanks for the input!

UsuallyPickin - Posted - 02/23/2019:  06:27:13

10-4 …. I hope things work out for you and your Gal …. R/

Eli Renfro - Posted - 03/14/2019:  09:42:06

I see you live in Fletcher, NC? I'd take it to Randy Hughes right down the road from you in Fairview. Back in 2013, I picked up a 1976 Gallagher G-70 that had been sitting in a barn for 30 years and exposed to all sorts of climate conditions. Randy planed the figerboard, did a refret, repaired a loose brace and the bridge (which was pulling up) ... bone nut, saddle and bridge pins. The thing sounds incredible to my ears. At least ride out there and let him take a look at it. Hughes String Instrument Repair ... (828) 628-9777. No affiliation other that he's my luthier and I trust him completely.