Analog Equalizing

Create various sounds with just one acoustic guitar.

The mechanism of producing sound in an acoustic guitar involves the intervention of physical SoundPillar that bring about diverse changes in sound response.
Harmonics of each note, sound response, sustain, and even the volume difference between low and high frets are all adjusted.
Introducing our patented technology - the SoundPillar developed through our own research! Now, you can experience a wider range of sound variations in your acoustic guitar by replacing the five different SoundPillar tips.
* Note: The SoundPillar is designed to be used with Gopherwood acoustic guitars. We recommend using it preferably with Gopherwood acoustic guitars only.

The Process of Sound Generation in an Acoustic Guitar

The vibrations of the guitar strings develop a consistent frequency and amplitude. This kinetic energy is then transmitted through the saddle, nut, bridge, fretboard, neck, back, and sides, undergoing a complex vibration process.
The difference in vibration between the resonant fretboard and sides results in the production of harmonics, also known as overtones. As a result, the sound of the guitar becomes even more rich and vibrant.

Harmonics (Overtone) Explanation

Harmonics refer to tones that have frequencies that are integer multiples of the fundamental frequency. For instance, if the fundamental frequency is 110Hz, its harmonics would include 220Hz, 330Hz, 440Hz, 550Hz, and so on. When you press a piano key, like the "C" key, the sound produced includes harmonics from the next octave such as "C, G, C, E, G, B♭, C, D, E, F♯..." along with the main note.
The presence or absence of harmonics has its advantages and disadvantages. Instruments with many harmonics are often considered advantageous for solo performances, while those with fewer harmonics are seen as more advantageous for ensemble playing.

The Role of SoundPillar

Variation in Harmonics (Overtones)

Intervening in the complex process of generating harmonics caused by the difference in vibration between the resonant fretboard and sides, it creates changes in the spectrum. Generally, when a SoundPillar is installed, the fundamental note is emphasized, and organized harmonics become more audible.

Change in Sound Response (Frequency Response)

Frequency-specific sound pressure levels ranging from low to mid to high frequencies are graphically represented. The use of a SoundPillar can result in effects similar to adjusting an audio equalizer or applying audio filters. Typically, when a SoundPillar is installed, the low frequencies become more well-defined, and the mid frequencies are highlighted, resulting in clearer expression of each note.

Volume and Sustain Variation in Open Strings and High Positions

Generally, open strings exhibit longer sustain and richer volume, whereas high positions tend to have a different characteristic. Installing a SoundPillar can narrow the difference in sustain and volume between open strings and high positions, resulting in a more consistent sound.

5 Different Material Tips

The tips supporting the upper and lower parts of the SoundPillar can be replaced, resulting in changes to the acoustic guitar's sound based on the material used.
In other words, with one acoustic guitar and one SoundPillar package, you can create 5 different sound variations.
① Compressed Wood - Compressed under high pressure, this material is used when seeking a well-balanced sound.
② Ebony - Known for its hardness and high density, it provides a clear and distinct mid and upper-mid range, without muddiness.
③ Brass - Made of brass, the material used in brass instruments, it offers a sharp treble and a piercing acoustic sound. Suitable for country music.
④ Maple - With its hardness and high density, it produces a distinct mid and upper-mid range harmonics.
⑤ Walnut - This soft yet resonant wood offers a refined mid and low range and bright trebles.

3 Types of SoundPillar Packages

These SoundPillar packages are categorized based on the internal depth of the acoustic guitar: OM-body, GA-body, and D-body. Please select the SoundPillar package that is appropriate for your guitar.

Recording Tips Using SoundPillar

Excessive Low-End Reduction - When recording an acoustic guitar with a condenser microphone, there might be an issue of excessive low-end frequencies causing a "boomy" effect, where the mid and upper-mid frequencies get buried under the lows. In such cases, attaching a SoundPillar can help manage excessive low-end frequencies, similar to using a high-pass filter.

Playing in High Positions - When your playing involves a mix of open strings and high positions, you might unconsciously play softly on open strings and more aggressively in high positions. Attaching a SoundPillar can help reduce the volume and sustain difference between open strings and high positions, allowing for more comfortable playing.

Guitar Character Selection for Solo and Ensemble - For solo performances, consider removing the SoundPillar to emphasize richer harmonics and mid-to-low frequencies, enhancing the guitar's natural presence. For ensemble playing, attaching a SoundPillar can help achieve a clearer fundamental note and organized harmonics, allowing the guitar to blend harmoniously with other instruments.

SoundPillar Installation Steps

① Loosen the guitar strings to a relaxed state, then insert the SoundPillar into the guitar's soundhole. Ensure that the side with the "G" of the Gopherwood logo is facing upwards.
② Position the bottom tip of the SoundPillar at the center of the concentric circle laser-marked on the back center of the Gopherwood guitar.
③ After accurately placing it at the center of the back, apply gentle pressure to make sure the bottom tip is slightly inserted.
④ Stand the SoundPillar and place the top tip into the groove where the X-bracing intersects at the center of the top of the guitar.
⑤ Once both top and bottom tips are in their correct positions, release the pressure on the bottom tip.
⑥ To remove the SoundPillar, follow the installation steps in reverse order.
Note: Carefully follow the steps to ensure proper installation and avoid damaging the guitar or the SoundPillar.

SoundPillar Tip Replacement Method

① Rotate the top body of the SoundPillar counterclockwise to detach it. Be careful not to lose the internal spring during this process.
② Remove the tips from the top and bottom bodies and insert the replacement tips. The tips for the top and bottom are the same and interchangeable.
③ Align the spring and the connecting guide screw between the top and bottom bodies with the replaced tips, then reassemble in reverse order of disassembly.
Note: Follow these steps carefully to avoid losing any parts or damaging the SoundPillar during tip replacement.

SoundPillar Package Element

① Package Box
② Equipped with CompWood Tip SoundPillar
③ Maple Tips
④ Walnut Tips
⑤ Ebony Tips
⑥ Brass Tips

SoundPillar Package Specification

Length : 137mm / 5.3in
Width : 36mm / 1.4in
Height : 122mm / 4.8in
Weight : 154g / 0.3lb
MADE IN KOREA