Carbon fiber comes in a variety of different styles and configurations. The Blackbird Rider Acoustic Guitar utilizes a blend of uni-directional (super stiff in one direction), 90 degree (strong and stiff in two directions) and twill (wraps well in three dimensions) materials, along with core materials, to add to the guitar’s strength and reduce its weight even further.
The process of creating a Blackbird Rider Guitar starts with a foam prototype that is hand sculpted and re-sculpted for scale, aesthetics and ergonomics. Then, a CAD (Computer-aided design) model of the guitar is created. Next, the virtual model is cast into a new foam model, using the dimensions of the CAD model. The model is then tested and the process is repeated if necessary. Finally, negative molds are created from the positive foam model and carbon fiber is hand layered into the mold.
The Blackbird Rider Guitar is composed of an all-hollow uni-body shell, meaning that its body, neck, and head are cast in one-piece, while the other components (such as tuners) are added on afterwards. This way, the weak and sound-absorbing joints associated with standard guitars are eliminated. This unique construction is made possible thanks to the incredibly strong and stiff properties of carbon fiber.
The main advantage of the hollow uni-body design is that the entire guitar becomes the sound box, magnifying its loud and full-bodied tone. Furthermore, this design makes the guitar light, so it can be carried easily.
Blackbird Guitars, the company that developed the guitar, states: “You can play in a tropical rain storm and Rider will be fine. It can withstand a fall on a concrete floor without breaking (not recommended of course). The finish is much more durable and scratch resistant than a standard guitar”. The price tag on a Blackbird Rider Acoustic Guitar is $1,599.
More information on the Blackbird Rider Guitar is available on the company’s website.