The 23-Point Inspection
What's included
Eight categories. Every instrument, every time.
We spent 26 years on tour playing these instruments. We know what a properly set-up guitar, mandolin, or banjo should feel and sound like. The 23-point inspection is how we make sure yours arrives that way.
Category 01
General Inspection
Before anything else, the instrument gets a full visual walkthrough. Top, back, sides, binding, neck, and headstock for anything that shouldn't have left the factory.
- Visual Check — full surface inspection for scratches, dings, or blemishes
- Finish Quality — smooth, even, free of bubbles or discoloration
- Tuners — buttons, bushings, and screws checked for fit and function
- Strap Button — confirmed secure
- Bridge Pins — properly fitted and undamaged
- Endpin — secure and properly seated
- Banjo-Specific — tension hooks tightened, resonator screws hand-tightened, secured for transit
Category 02
Structural Integrity
A beautiful finish means nothing if the instrument has a crack hiding under it. We check every joint, seam, and connection point because structural issues only get worse over time.
- Neck & Body Connection — proper alignment, no visible gaps
- Soundboard — checked for cracks, warping, or structural compromise
- Back & Sides — checked for cracks or separation from the body
- Bridge — confirmed securely attached, no cracks or lifting
Category 03
Playability
This is the heart of the setup. An instrument that plays uncomfortably will kill motivation no matter how good it sounds. Every playability variable gets dialed in to manufacturer spec before it ships.
- Neck Relief & Straightness — verified, adjusted as needed
- Fret Inspection — all frets seated, level, free from sharp edges
- Action Height — measured at the 12th fret, set to manufacturer spec
- Nut & Saddle — correct height, secure fit, slots lubricated
Category 04
Acoustic Performance
We actually play the instrument. Every one. Tuning stability, intonation, sustain, and tonal balance are assessed by ear — not just by spec sheet. If it doesn't sound right, it doesn't ship.
- Tuning Stability — tuned and verified across all strings
- Intonation — tested across the neck; floating bridges adjusted where applicable
- Sound Quality — played and assessed for tone, sustain, and volume
Category 05
Electronics (if applicable)
For instruments with onboard electronics, we test every component before the case closes. A dead battery or faulty preamp is a frustrating surprise on stage — one that's easy to prevent before shipping.
- Pickup & Preamp — all components tested including onboard tuners, EQ controls, and output jacks
Category 06
Clean & Polish
Your instrument arrives clean. We use non-abrasive cloths and recommended cleaning products that won't leave residue or damage the finish.
- Full Polish — body, neck, and headstock cleaned with Music Nomad Guitar Detailer or The Guitar ONE
Category 07
Accessories & Packaging
The case, every accessory, and the packaging itself all get checked. Then we shake the box. Every package is shake-tested before it leaves — because an instrument that shifts in transit can get damaged.
- Case / Gig Bag — inspected for damage, quality, and proper fit
- Included Accessories — thank-you card, picks, stickers, gift card, Humidipaks, AcoustiCare smart sensor, all manufacturer documentation verified
- Custom AERIS Packaging — inflatable padding installed
- Shake Test — box tested to confirm stability during transit
Category 08
Customer Customizations
If you've requested anything specific — string gauge, brand preference, or any other customization — this is where we verify it's been done correctly before the case closes.
- Special Requests — all customer-specific customizations verified
- String Installation — your preferred gauge and brand installed fresh before shipping
The complete list
All 23 points, in full
Every item checked, every instrument, every time.
Examine the entire instrument — top, back, sides, binding, neck, headstock — for scratches, dings, or surface blemishes.
Ensure a smooth, even finish, free from imperfections like bubbles or uneven coloration.
Check tuners, tuner buttons, bushings, and screws for proper installation, condition, and operation.
Inspect strap button to ensure it's securely attached.
Verify bridge pins are correctly fitted and undamaged.
Tighten each tension hook, hand-tighten resonator screws, and tape for secure transport.
Confirm the endpin is secure and properly fitted.
Check for proper neck alignment with the body, ensuring no visible gaps or misalignment.
Inspect the top for cracks, warping, or structural issues.
Examine back and sides for cracks or separation from the body.
Ensure the bridge is securely attached without cracks or separation.
Verify the neck is straight and has appropriate relief for comfortable playability.
Confirm all frets are properly seated, level, and free from sharp edges or signs of wear.
Measure action height at the 12th fret, ensuring it's within manufacturer specifications.
Check for correct height, secure fitting, and lubricate slots as needed.
Tune the instrument and verify stable, responsive tuners across all strings.
Test intonation across the neck. Floating bridges adjusted as necessary (mandolin, banjo, fiddle, archtop).
Play the instrument to assess tonal quality, sustain, and volume. Every instrument is played — not just inspected visually.
Test all electronic components including onboard tuners, EQ controls, and output jacks.
Wipe the instrument's body, neck, and headstock with a non-abrasive cloth and recommended cleaning products (Music Nomad Guitar Detailer or The Guitar ONE).
Inspect any included case or gig bag for damage, quality, and proper fit.
Verify all accessories are included — thank-you card, picks, stickers, gift card, Humidipaks, AcoustiCare smart sensor, all manufacturer documentation — with custom AERIS inflatable padding. Box shake-tested to confirm stability during transit.
Ensure any customer-specific customizations — including string gauge, brand, and feel preferences — are correctly implemented and verified before the case closes.
Part of the Dread-Not Guarantee
The 23-point inspection is one piece of the most complete buyer protection in acoustic retail. Every qualifying instrument over $1,000 also ships with a 30-day home trial, 1-year trade-in at 90% value, and a free Bluetooth humidity tracker.
See the full Dread-Not Guarantee →