About US

What is the Atlas-C1?

The Atlas C-1 is a stainless-steel precision tool designed to apply a targeted mechanical pressure that opposes the known force component range between 130-140 lbs. of string pressure exerted at the vulnerable Headstock/ Neck junction typical of all (3 on 3) six string guitars when tuned to a standard pitch of (440Hz). Properly fitted, the Atlas C-1 guarantees a net force zero or static equilibrium exactly where required on the instrument, ensuring that you have the most comprehensive protection available. The Atlas C1's innovative design perfectly accommodates all (3on3) six string instruments with nut widths up to 50mm and break angles from 10- 28 degrees. Patented and Trademarked. 

Note: The Atlas -C1 only needs to be finger tightened to the point where it is firmly attached and secured , never apply excessive force or use other tightening tools with the Atlas -C1

                                                                        

 

How does it work?

All stringed instruments physically undergo constant pressure on the headstock/Peghead region. Typically 6 string guitars, tuned to a standard pitch of 440Hz generally must endure upwards of 135 lbs. + - several pounds of constant string pressure, at all times. This pressure wears on the instrument and can cause unintended issues/ consequences. The headstock / peghead junction can, over time warp, depending on how the instrument is stored and cared for, or worse and more frequently , can easily be damaged or simply break off entirely. The Atlas alleviates the pressure by countering the string force, when strung, with the perfect amount of counter force , and serves as an active guardian sentry at all other times.  Utilizing the Atlas C1 can greatly reduce the chance of damage from accidents or mishandling. Accidents can happen at any time and transporting a stringed instrument is almost always a gamble unless the instrument is in your lap or right next to you while in transit. Take the professional approach to stringed instrument management. 

 

Why is it called Atlas C-1?

 In Greek mythology, the Titan Atlas , represented strength and endurance , In human anatomy , the Atlas- C1 vertebra stabilizes the skull on top of the neck. The Atlas C-1 likewise, supports the vulnerable Headstock neck junction. The Atlas -C1 provides targeted support at this critical location and provides unparalleled protection to the Headstock / Peghead of most 3 on 3 stringed instruments .

The Atlas (C1) in the human spine.

The Atlas C-1 headstock brace on a Gretsch guitar. 

 Pat Geraghty, left, the inventor of the Atlas -C1 along with Professor Ed Yee at the University Of Maryland Carey Law School I. P. department during a photo session for the Universities publication, The Catalyst Magazine . The magazine  highlights individuals in tech, research and innovation. Participants are invited to share their individual success stories . In 2014 , while first engaged with the school, Pat designed and created the now Iconic "BrownBox" Tube Amp Power Supply and with his company, AmpRX Power Solutions, went on to much acclaim in the M.I. industry where he developed U.S. and International distribution channels, and the company is still going strong today under its new ownership. Pat sold that business in 2022.   https://catalystmag.umaryland.edu/inventive-idea-intellectual-property-and-entrepreneurship-clinic-helps-clients-realize-dreams/

Industrial Wool Felt protective lining

Atlas Attributes: Receiver

The stainless steel Atlas-C1 Recevier component will accomodate neck widths up to 50MM and break angles from 10 to 28 degrees . These design dimension criteria ensure that the Atlas-C1 will accomodate nearly every (3 on 3) style headstock designs , as well as many other headstock designs, depending on the tuning machine layout. The Recevier is lined with a protective, high quality ,soft but extremly durable wool felt lining guaranteeing many years of reliable mar- free service.

Immage: Typical Break scenario

Guarding your investment against the Inevitable

Everyone loves their guitar(s) and for good reason, they bring us endless joy, happiness and harmony.They become extensions of ourselves . But they are also fragile by design and have precission attributes that require continuous special care. The combinded benefits of peace of mind and support protection outweigh the the investment many many times over. The current average market price of a qualified luthier to perform a Headstock re-glue and touch-up is $450.00.

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Proper Alignment

Proper alignment and positioning

It's super fast and easy to attach the Atlas -C1 to any instrument .

Rear Positioning

contoured Atlas receiver

The Receiver half of the Atlas -C1 , the bottom section, is designed to accomodate Headstock break angles from 10 to 28 degreees and will fit nearly all 3 on 3 headstock pegheads.

Protective leather fret Pad

7mm - 9/32" thick leather fret pad

The thick Protective Leather Fret Pad is surrounded on three sides with raised mounting edges and secured with industrial adhesive that will ensure that even after many years of use, the pad will maintain it shape , not fan -out and remain solidly in place.

4 years on

Pressure measuring with a FSR

Studies were conducted over a 4 year period that enabled us to determine what parameters were essential to the design goal ,those parameters were then tested and enhanced over and over . We streamlined those results and created a precission , one of a kind tool that is sleek, unobtrusive and designed to last a liftime.

Lay Flat Screws

The two Lay- Flat securing screws make it a breeze to tighten the Atlas -C1 to the instrument and fold out of the way for convienience while in a case, in a stand or storage. Note: The Atlas -C1 only needs to be finger tightened to the point where it is firmly attached and secured , never apply excessive force or use other tightening tools with the Atlas -C1 .

Why Neck Support Matters: an explanation about the importance of headstock protection https://blog.monocreators.com/why-neck-support-matters/