Abstract: A stringed instrument having a body including a back surface, a top head portion, and a treble-side. A cutaway can be defined in the body adjacent the top head portion on the treble side, the cutaway defining a cutaway edge. A cutout can be defined in the back surface, the cutout extending from the top head portion along at least a portion of the cutaway edge, the cutout defining a cutout surface. A neck can extend from the body, a portion of the neck disposed on a front side of the top head portion. A neck plate can be disposed on a back side of the top head portion, at least a portion of the neck plate positioned on the cutout surface, wherein the neck plate includes a plate cross section that corresponds to a cross section of the cutout at a location proximate the top head portion.

Abstract: A stringed instrument having a body including a back surface, a top head portion, and a treble-side. A cutaway can be defined in the body adjacent the top head portion on the treble side, the cutaway defining a cutaway edge. A cutout can be defined in the back surface, the cutout extending from the top head portion along at least a portion of the cutaway edge, the cutout defining a cutout surface. A neck can extend from the body, a portion of the neck disposed on a front side of the top head portion. A neck plate can be disposed on a back side of the top head portion, at least a portion of the neck plate positioned on the cutout surface, wherein the neck plate includes a plate cross section that corresponds to a cross section of the cutout at a location proximate the top head portion.