Will the Airlines allow this guitar on board or must I check the guitar as baggage?
Does the guitar feel like a regular guitar?
Once playing position is assumed, the SoloEtte will feel just like your favorite guitar.
Are the frame pieces removable?
The guitar was developed with the traveler in mind. The frame
pieces are removable and are stored in the soft gig bag.
Is the action adjustable?
The action of the guitar is adjustable. The
guitar will leave the
shop set at a standard action. The Classic, Nylon SongBird, Acoustic
SongBird, and Thumper models are adjustable using shims. If the player
desires a higher or
lower action, simply call and we will provide shims at no cost to
the buyer. The Jazz and DragonFly models use an adjustable Schaller
bridge.
Does the guitar come with a case?
The guitar comes with a soft gig bag.
Is there a hard case available?
We do not have a hard case currently available.
Does the guitar come with headphones?
The guitar does not come with headphones, although we do
make some recommendations. Our customer base tells us
overwhelmingly, that the Grado model SR-60e headphones
(www.gradolabs.com) are the most compatible headphones. We
recommend them because of superior sound quality and the
fact that the ear pieces rotate to present a flat profile. We sell
them for $79.00.
Do the nylon models use special strings?
Your nylon guitar leaves the shop strung with D'Addario, hard
tension, ball end strings, comparable to the D'Addario model
EJ-34 strings (edit: these are normal tension. In a previous FAQ, EJ-33 strings were listed, also normal tension. The 34s have black trebles) although any nylon or composite strings can be used.
What is a "figure 8 " knot and how is it tied?
A "figure 8" knot is used to keep the strings from pulling through
the string holes. An example of a "figure 8" knot can be seen here.
Can you put steel strings on the classic or hybrid?
No, it would invalidate the warranty.
What is the Return policy?
We allow you to return your instrument for a full refund if you are in
any way unsatisfied. We ask to be notified within 3 business days of
receiving your instrument. We will refund the full price of the
instrument when returned in new condition. We do not refund any shipping
costs. Please click here to read our full Return policy.
What is the Warranty?
The SoloEtte is warranted to be free of manufacturer defects and faulty
materials for one year from the date of original retail purchase.
Please click here to read our full Warranty policy.
How do I purchase replacement parts for my SoloEtte after the warranty has expired?
We offer replacement parts including frame pieces and tuning keys
for the life of the guitar. Please email us at or
call us at to purchase replacement parts.
What powers the guitar?
The guitar is powered with a 9 volt battery.
How long will the battery last?
It should last up to 30 hours if the player remembers
to always unplug everything from the guitar when not playing.
The output jack functions as the guitar's on/off switch.
The
sound of my SoloEtte in headphones is falling out in one ear followed
by the other ear. Is there something wrong with my electronics?
No, it is time to change your battery. When the battery life is
ending, the sound in headphones will fall out in one ear, then the other
ear. Always replace your battery with a brand new battery to guarantee
sound in headphones up to 30 hours of playing time.
Can the guitar plug into an amp, boom box or computer
speakers?
Yes. The SoloEtte comes with two output jacks, one for headphones, and another for "Send to Amp"
What do the nylon guitars sound like?
In the headphones, the sound is believably that of a plain, simple nylon
string guitar. It is easy to listen to, and comfortable to practice
with for hours. Through a PA or sound system, or a nice tube amp, the
SoloEtte is very effective when used in an ensemble, such as with
percussion and electric bass. Solo performance at a small
coffeehouse-type venue would be very pleasant through the house PA
System. Any serious recording, or classical recital, would, of course,
be much better with a fine classical guitar. Please visit our Audio Samples & Links page to listen to the Classic.
How does the frame assemble and disassemble?
Click HERE to view animations showing frame assemble and dissemble.
Yes. The SoloEtte can be plugged into the "line in" jack on any desktop or laptop computer. It's best to use the headphone jack when playing into a sound card.
Do you offer electronics upgrades on your older models?
No, we are not offering electronics upgrades on our older models. We have been happy to upgrade the electronics on our older models for the last twenty years. We are ending this service in June, 2016. We have scaled our production and repair work down to focus on new guitars and our Wright Electric Guitars. We apologize for any disappointment.
The plastic button on my tuning key has cracked. How do I replace it?
We offer replacement tuning keys for older Schaller tuning machines. The cost is $5 per tuning key plus $2 for USPS shipping within the United States. Please email us at or call us at to purchase replacement tuning keys.
How do I purchase replacement parts for my Aria Sinsonido guitar?
We do not stock replacement parts or offer service for Aria Sinsonido guitars. The SoloEtte electronics and frame pieces are not compatible with the Aria Sinsonido. Please contact the Aria distributor in your country for replacement parts and service.
How do I purchase a SoloEtte pickup and preamp?
We do not offer our pickups and preamps for retail sale. Repairs to your SoloEtte can be done locally by any good guitar technician. If you are experiencing trouble with your SoloEtte electronics, then please email us at or call us at for help with a repair. We encourage repair technicians to reach out to us for help repairing a SoloEtte.
