Another Martin question ~ bracing types

[draelyc]

So, what are the significant differences between X-bracing and forward-shifted X-bracing?

(Please don't just tell me that the latter is shifted forward, lol.)

I mean would there be significant sonic differences between a guitar with X & one with forward-shifted X, if all the other specs were basically identical?

[llew]

The forward shifted version should yield a little more bass response.

[draelyc]

Originally Posted by llew

The forward shifted version should yield a little more bass response.

Cool, yeah ~ that makes sense, doesn't it? Thanks.

[Audie]

The science is to increase the resonance of the area of the top that is behind the bracing. Basically, it frees the top surface to give a louder, more responsive sound. It works!

[draelyc]

Originally Posted by Audie

The science is to increase the resonance of the area of the top that is behind the bracing. Basically, it frees the top surface to give a louder, more responsive sound. It works!

[blindboyjimi]

Just be aware that Martin offers many different bracing along with the different positions. Depending on the guitar the bracing can be 5/16” or 1/2” and the bracing can be straight, tapered, scalloped (standard), scalloped (Golden Era “GE”) or Authentic scalloped (Authentics only).

So yes, if the bracing is the same, then the result is more bass and a bit more scooped midrange. Technically, and historically, and geek-ily, there is no such thing as forward shifted. The bracing was originally there and then it was rear shifted. People (including Martin) use the term just because most other people do, but technically it’s original position or rear shifted. The rear shifted guitars are not by any means worse, nor the tapered or straight. It’s just a different tone. The more scalloped and thinner, the more the top moves. The straight braced guitars project more and the tapered are in the middle.