Graph Tech

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Overview

Graph Tech is a Canadian manufacturer of guitar parts and accessories, specializing in materials like Tusq and Graph Tech composites for nuts, saddles, and bridges. It holds a niche position in the guitar aftermarket and OEM supply, known for products designed to improve tuning stability and sustain.

History

Founded in 1983 in Canada by guitar parts innovator. Key milestones include development of proprietary self-lubricating materials like Tusq in the 1980s and expansion into String Saver and Black Tusq lines. The company has maintained independent operation focused on guitar hardware innovation.

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
Tusq Nuts & Saddles	Self-lubricating synthetic ivory replacement	$10 - $50
Graph Tech TUSQ XL	Pre-slotted precision-cut nuts	$15 - $60
String Saver Classics	Saddle system reducing string breakage	$50 - $150
Black Tusq	Dark synthetic for aesthetic matching	$10 - $50
ResoMax	Bridge system enhancing resonance	$100 - $300

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured in Burnaby, Canada. Production is in-house with focus on proprietary composite materials. Some precision machining is done using CNC technology.

Notable Products

Tusq Nut - Self-lubricating nut material reducing friction for better tuning stability.
String Saver Saddle - Rounded saddle edges that extend string life and improve intonation.
Prism Bridge - Adjustable bridge system for electric guitars optimizing string break angle.
Head Inlay Blanks - Customizable inlays made from Tusq for fretboard personalization.
Ratio Tuners - Precision tuning machines with geared ratios for accurate tuning.

Reputation

Enthusiasts and luthiers praise Graph Tech for reliable tuning improvements and durability over traditional materials like bone or plastic. Professionals note consistent performance in high-end builds. Some criticize higher costs compared to generic parts and occasional reports of material inconsistencies in early products.

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