Nathan T.
1 min read
While tone and volume knobs all perform the same function, their shape and finish play a big role in the overall look and feel of your guitar. Here’s a breakdown of the three main styles available.
Photo by frame harirak on Unsplash
Top Hat knobs are the classic choice, most commonly seen on vintage-style guitars. They feature a tall cylindrical shape with a flat top and printed numbers.
Photo by Jefferson Sees on Unsplash
Speed knobs are lower profile with ridged edges, designed for quick adjustments while playing.
Photo by Ulysse Pointcheval on Unsplash
Dome knobs have a smooth, rounded metal design with a sleek, minimal appearance.
| Type | Profile | Grip Level | Aesthetic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top Hat | Tall | Medium | Vintage classic |
| Speed | Low | High | Modern utility |
| Dome | Rounded | Low-Medium | Sleek minimal |
Tip: Match your knob color with your hardware (gold, chrome, black) for a cohesive look.
Doug DeLuca and his sixteen year old son turned a bare quilted maple top into a deep blue burst, and the figure still reads through the darkest part of the rim. Here is the dye versus pigment decision that made it work, why the edges are the darkest part of the guitar, and what you can copy on your own figured top.
Christoph and his son Fionn wanted a deep even black on an open-grained mahogany body with the figure still showing through, and the pores kept drying lighter than the surface. Follow the build from the bare kit to the finished bass, and see how they diagnosed it and what you can copy from their approach.
