chambered/hollowbody maple top: hole or no-hole?

[rbjammin]

I am considering a hollowed out mahogany back and carved (inside and outside) maple top for my next electric guitar build. Since it will be an electric guitar, would there be much point in cutting an f-hole in the top? My thought is that if the top remains solid, it would allow the air inside to contribute to the resonance, whereas an f-hole would allow that air to escape. Although, holes for the pickups will allow some air to escape around the pickups.

I have not played either type of body style and would appreciate your thoughts.

[jim777]

Basically, having f holes may add to the resonance of the guitar, but it also allows for moving amplified air to vibrate the top and feedback the guitar. No holes means less feedback and less movement of the top. One isn't better than another, they're just different. Also, most maple tops are steamed, bent, and laminated in very thin layers, not carved from one thick piece. If your top is going to be more than an 1/8th of an inch thick I doubt it will matter much. If your top will be a uniform 1/4 inch thick, then the F holes will very likely have no effect other than looks. If you like F holes, go for it

[rbjammin]

Thanks for the input! The top will be at least 1/8" thick I guess there's not much point in having an f-hole.