Building your own guitar can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and after completing my fourth solo build, I can confidently say that diving into an Sg Guitar Kit is a fantastic way to achieve a high-quality instrument. Following a previous kit that demanded some unexpected extra attention, this SG kit build was a genuinely enjoyable process, culminating in a guitar that exceeded my expectations.
To truly make this SG guitar my own, I decided to customize the body with several comfort-enhancing modifications. I incorporated a belly-cut, forearm bevel, and knee bevel, which significantly improved the guitar’s ergonomics and playing comfort. Furthermore, I sculpted the backside horns to provide enhanced access to the upper frets, a crucial modification for players who venture into the higher registers of the neck frequently.
For the finish, I employed the same method that proved successful on my previous three builds: Keda-dye followed by fifteen coats of Tru-oil. This combination resulted in a stunning wine-colored mahogany body and neck, showcasing a rich, dark woodgrain that gives the guitar a showroom-quality aesthetic. The depth and luster of the finish truly highlight the natural beauty of the mahogany.
While the kit’s included hardware and electronics are functional, I opted for a complete upgrade to ensure top-tier performance and reliability. I replaced everything with premium components, including black Hipshot locking tuners for rock-solid tuning stability and effortless string changes. A TUSQ graphite nut was installed to minimize friction and further enhance tuning stability, while also contributing to a clearer tone. For pickups, I chose Seymour Duncan Vintage Blues humbuckers, known for their warm, articulate, and classic rock tones. These were paired with 500k CTR pots and .022 orange drop capacitors, wired in a vintage ’59 style configuration for authentic tone and responsiveness. To optimize the string angle over the nut on the Gibson-style neck, I installed a String-Butler, which noticeably improved tuning consistency. Perhaps the most impactful hardware upgrade was the addition of a roller bridge. The difference this made in intonation accuracy and overall tuning stability is remarkable, ensuring chords ring true across the entire fretboard. Strung with 9.5 gauge Ernie Ball strings, this SG guitar kit build not only stays perfectly in tune but also delivers an incredibly resonant and articulate sound. In fact, I can honestly say I have yet to play an SG, or any guitar for that matter, that feels or sounds better than this custom-built instrument.
During the build process, the only minor hurdle I encountered was the need for a neck shim of approximately .25mm. Instead of ordering a pre-made shim online at an inflated price with excessive shipping costs, I found a practical and cost-effective solution at my local hardware store. A pack of wooden shims, costing only a dollar, provided the perfect material. With a simple razor blade, I trimmed a shim to achieve a precise custom fit and angle, eliminating any gap between the neck and body. This simple DIY fix was easy to implement and ensured optimal neck angle and playability.
In conclusion, this SG guitar kit has absolutely earned a 5-star rating from me. From the quality of the materials to the potential for customization and the exceptional final result, this kit offers an outstanding platform for anyone looking to build their own professional-grade instrument. The upgrades I incorporated elevated the guitar to another level, resulting in an instrument that is both a joy to play and a testament to the rewarding experience of DIY guitar building. If you’re considering embarking on a guitar building project, I wholeheartedly recommend this SG guitar kit as an excellent starting point.
