Ergonomics... In music?

(Image from RickToone.com)

Ergonomics seeks to alleviate the stress and discomforts associated with numerous everyday objects. The field has worked on tools, chairs, desks, computerware, clothing, and various other applications. One that is less recognized, (and of less concern to most) is ergonomic guitars. Anyone who has ever played a Fender telecaster, or most acoustic guitars knows that not all guitar designs are created ergonomically equal. Most popular designs that do incorporate some ergonomic values, such as fender's stratocaster with an angled body, don't solve all of the position problems associated with guitars. Some luthiers, such as Rick Toone of New Jersey, have taken it upon themselves to create a guitar that is comfortable in more ways than one.

Toone's “Dove” ergonomic baritone guitar is a combination of total functionality, with natural beauty. The materials include swamp ash and maple woods, stainless steel, bronze, and aircraft grade aluminum. I think of the look as a cross between a medieval weapon and a space-age instrument. The natural wood contrasting with the stainless steel and bronze instantly catches the eye. Not to mention the completely original body design.

(Image from RickToone.com)

The body attempts to solve all of the ergonomic issues of most electric guitars. It has a contoured body with a “Hip hole” that forms to the body for the optimal natural playing position. The wave shape of the bottom and end of the guitar serve a contours for the knee and leg, when using the guitar in a sitting position. This gives the player multiple options for placement, allowing them to find the most
comfortable position for rocking out. Also, the fretboard is a fanned design, which allows for the strings to reach their optimal length for an accurate pitch when accessing the higher regions of the neck.

(Image from RickToone.com)

This is hands down the most interesting-while-still-appealing guitar design I have ever seen. It has both function and originality. I don't see it as becoming a top selling item (mainly since it is one of a kind), but I definitely believe many axe-men/ women are trying to get their hands on one of these ergonomically correct tools for their musical woodshed.