Tone Wood

One of a series of woods with excellent tonal qualities that are used in guitar-making. Common tone woods include softwoods such as spruce and cedar, and hardwoods such as mahogany, rosewood, koa and walnut. Softwoods are used for the soundboard because of their looser grain (and therefore greater capacity for vibration); hardwoods are primarily used for guitar sides, back and necks because of their greater strength and resilience.

Truss Rod

An adjustable metal rod inside the neck of the guitar used to change the angle of the neck. The truss rod is usually adjusted at the headstock, just above the nut.

Truss Rod Cover

A decorative plate, usually screwed to the headstock just above the nut, which covers the truss rod adjustment mechanism.

Tuning Machines

Also known as tuners, these are the mechanisms that wind the strings for sufficient tension to produce sound when the strings are vibrated.

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