Abstract: A fret press system can install one or more frets in grooves of a substrate with a press connected to a caul. The fret may be positioned atop the groove prior to contacting the fret with a caul by operating the press. The fret may initially be forced into the groove with the caul with a first pressure before an incorrect fret position in the groove is detected with a sensor connected to the press. The caul can then be adjusting to correct the sensed incorrect fret position and subsequently used to finish installing the fret in the groove prior to a position of the fret in the groove being confirmed with the sensor.

Abstract: A stringed musical instrument comprises a neck and a cavity formed in the neck. The cavity includes a curved bottom surface and a chamfer in a sidewall of the cavity. An island is formed in the cavity. A fretboard is formed comprising a veneer and adapted to fit the cavity. The fretboard includes an opening adapted to encompass the island in the cavity. The cavity or fretboard is formed using a computer-controlled or numerically-controlled milling machine, router, water jet, or laser. The fretboard is mounted within the cavity, and the island in the cavity is disposed within the opening in the fretboard. Mounting the fretboard within the cavity includes flexing a sidewall of the cavity. An edge of the fretboard contacts a sidewall of the cavity without a visible gap.

Abstract: A stringed musical instrument comprises a neck and a cavity formed in the neck. The cavity includes a curved bottom surface and a chamfer in a sidewall of the cavity. An island is formed in the cavity. A fretboard is formed comprising a veneer and adapted to fit the cavity. The fretboard includes an opening adapted to encompass the island in the cavity. The cavity or fretboard is formed using a computer-controlled or numerically-controlled milling machine, router, water jet, or laser. The fretboard is mounted within the cavity, and the island in the cavity is disposed within the opening in the fretboard. Mounting the fretboard within the cavity includes flexing a sidewall of the cavity. An edge of the fretboard contacts a sidewall of the cavity without a visible gap.