CAD/CAM w/o CNC ?? (total rookie)

[Clampy]

I'd like to get into (eventually) using a CNC for making guitars just for hobbie. Does it make sense to get CAD/CAM software w/o having a CNC? I suppose there are plenty of people around here who could be hired to cut a body for me until I have have the funds (wife's approval) to get a small K2, Sabre, etc.

I'm looking at Rhino 4 & MadCAM. Thoughts?

Regards,
Chris

[mll]

Chris

You could always hire someone to cut the guitar also, one of the great things about the CAD and CAM software is they allow you to download free demo versions, At least download it and see if you like the software and if you get it. Also the best way to convince your wife if for her to see the live simulation of the guitar being cut. Even though you can pay for CAD and CAM services it is one of those things that you will want to learn anyway. I haven't used MAD CAM but I like Visualmill

[ger21]

It's a good idea to spend the time up front learning your CAD software thouroughly before you get the machine, so you don't have so many things to learn at once. Modeling carved bodies and necks is not a trivial task. Rhino will keep you busy for a while. And even if you don't get a CNC, you can always have someone else cut your models.

But, I would not buy a CAM program without a machine. Save the money. if you want someone to cut parts for you, they'll have a CAM program, and would probnably prefer to create their own code. I'd wait until you get a machine.

[Clampy]

Thanks for the info. Sounds like the best approach is to get a CAD package and figure out how to model something basic like a strat body or similar non-carved top guitar body. After I get the basics, hopefully I'll be able to move on to necks. I'll check out the thread on making a strat. Wish me luck!!

Thanks Again,
Chris

[turmite]

As hard as it is to agree with Gerry on this one ( I am the US reseller of Madcam ), I do agree with him. If you have no plans to get a cnc, by all means don't get cam software. Now I do recommend that when you do get cam software, get Madcam!

I also highly recommend you get Rhino for you cad simply because I believe it to be the best bang for the buck and especially if you are into guitars.

BTW I happen to be getting ready to do several guitars using Rhino and Madcam. These are for customers and will not be posted unless they give permission.

Mike

It's a good idea to spend the time up front learning your CAD software thouroughly before you get the machine, so you don't have so many things to learn at once. Modeling carved bodies and necks is not a trivial task. Rhino will keep you busy for a while. And even if you don't get a CNC, you can always have someone else cut your models.

But, I would not buy a CAM program without a machine. Save the money. if you want someone to cut parts for you, they'll have a CAM program, and would probnably prefer to create their own code. I'd wait until you get a machine.