I’m always looking guitar accessories that might add benefit to playing guitar
On a whim, I saw the Tenor TPGS guitar support on Amazon and decided to pull the trigger. My rationale was that perhaps it would make the guitar easier to hold while sitting down, and allow me to reduce the amount the guitar body leans against me, to give the wood more surface area to ring. Guitar support/rest devices are typically important for classical guitarists because they help to keep the instrument in the correct position while playing. It could also be important for those who suffer from back or neck pain, as it can help to alleviate some of the pressure on these areas.
The support arrived in a small box with a single page instruction manual. The device is about the size of an iPhone, made of metal (and velcro) and doesn’t add much weight to the guitar.
The support needs a standard body sized guitar, a thinline would clearly be too small. My first effort to install the support was easy, the suction-cups are decent quality and it connected well.
The first issue I encountered, however, was finding the right location on the guitar. I moved up and down the lower bout of the guitar, trying to find a comfortable location. Finally, I determined that the best location was nearest the middle bout (or most narrow section), and adjusted the velcro slightly tighter.
In using the rest, I noticed two things: 1. I was able to get the guitar to project louder, because I could rest the guitar on my leg and not against my chest. 2. The device is never going to work for me.
After many years of playing fingerstyle guitar, using this device would require me to change the angle of my elbow and shoulder. I tried for several sessions to see if I could make it work, but it become pretty clear that my current method of using the guitar strap as a brace is the best option for me.
Should you get one?
If you’ve been playing for years, probably not. I think this is the kind of accessory that requires patience and a change in playing approach. If you are a newer fingerstyle player, it might be helpful to use, as I can appreciate the benefits the support can potentially bring.