Congratulations on choosing your new Breedlove instrument. To preserve
the remarkable tone and playability of your Breedlove, we have some simple
suggestions that will help your instrument last a lifetime. Over 200 years
of combined expertise at Breedlove and extensive industry knowledge has
contributed to the recommendations found in this guide.
Humidity, Temperature, and Solid Wood Instruments
As with any high quality solid wood instrument, humidity and temperature
are very important factors affecting the health and well-being of your guitar
or mandolin. Humidity and temperature are easily monitored and regulated
with the right accessories - specifically, a thermometer and a hygrometer.
You can take an in-the-case approach to humidity control, or you can treat
the entire room in which your instrument will be kept. Measure the relative
humidity (RH) and temperature of your storage environment to determine
if it is suitable. Measuring daily for a week or two will help you determine
whether conditions are stable. Your Breedlove guitar was built in a controlled
environment with an RH of approximately 45% at a temperature of 70º F. An
RH of between 40% and 50% at this same temperature will ensure a suitable
environment for your Breedlove. Note that RH is temperature-dependent. Air
with 45% RH at 60º F does not have the same water content as air at 70º F
with 45% RH.
If your storage environment is below 40% RH, invest in a humidifier with
variable controls to establish proper RH. If the environment is above 50%
RH, a variable-control dehumidifier will be needed to achieve optimal RH.
Humidifiers and dehumidifiers are available at most department stores, and in
addition to being essential for the health of your instrument, they’re good for
you too.
Note: This manual covers Breedlove acoustic guitars and mandolins, as well
as Breedlove Chambered electric guitars. Humidity and temperature control
are vital for the health of acoustic instruments, and a properly humidified
environment will also be beneficial for electric guitars.
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