Setup
Unboxing and Components
The Donner DST-100S Electric Guitar Kit includes the 39-inch electric guitar, a portable amplifier, a 600D quality gig bag, capo, strap, extra string set, digital tuner, amplifier cable, and picks.
Donner DST-100S Electric Guitar Kit with all included accessories.
Detailed view of the kit components including the guitar, gig bag, mini amp, strap, picks, tuner, capo, cable, and extra strings.
Guitar Anatomy
The guitar features a Canadian maple neck with a 'C' shaped profile, purpleheart wood fingerboard, and a poplar solid body. It is equipped with H-S-S pickups for versatile sound.
Front and back view of Donner electric guitar highlighting components like Canadian Maple neck, Poplar body, Purpleheart fretboard, and H-S-S pickups.
Amplifier Setup
The kit includes a portable mini amplifier. During product updates, either the old or new version of the amplifier may be shipped. Both versions provide essential amplification for practice. The amp comes with an amp cord and has two-tone channels. It features easy controls, a compact size, a 1/8" auxiliary input jack for playing along with media, and a 1/8" headphone output jack for silent practice.
Comparison of old and new models of the Donner mini amplifier.
Initial Tuning
Use the included digital tuner (DT-04) to accurately tune your guitar strings before playing. Proper tuning is crucial for good sound and playability.
Operating
Basic Guitar Operation
The Donner electric guitar features two classic Single-coil pickups and one powerful 203S Humbucker pickup. Use the 5-way pickup switch and the two tone and one volume controls to select your desired sound. This H-S-S configuration is suitable for various musical styles.
Close-up of H-S-S pickups with 5-way switch and durable bridge.
Close-up of guitar neck showing C-shape, hand-polished fretboard, and precision machine heads.
Playing Techniques
This section covers fundamental guitar playing techniques. It includes understanding power chords and open chords, focusing on proper hand placement and reach. Learn about organizing music into bars and expanding your chord vocabulary. The manual also introduces muting techniques, such as holding strings without pressure for a percussive sound, and palm muting, which acts as a volume control by gently resting the side of your hand on the bridge. Practice these techniques with basic chords like E minor. Additionally, learn the C major chord, a common chord in many songs, and how to play it in different voicings to achieve fuller sounds. The manual also introduces the G major chord and discusses various ways to play it. Practice chord progressions, such as C-G-E minor-G, focusing on rhythm and timing. Use a metronome or count aloud to maintain a steady beat, even if you need to slow down. Prioritize consistent rhythm over perfect chord changes initially.
Maintenance
General Care
Regularly wipe down your guitar with a soft, clean cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. Avoid exposing the guitar to extreme temperatures or humidity changes, as this can affect the wood and overall playability.
String Replacement
Strings should be replaced periodically as they wear out, lose their tone, or break. Refer to online resources or a professional for detailed instructions on how to properly replace guitar strings. The kit includes an extra set of strings.
Truss Rod Adjustment
The truss rod, located inside the guitar neck, helps adjust the neck's curvature. If you experience fret buzz or high action, the truss rod may need adjustment. It is recommended to consult a professional or refer to detailed guides for proper adjustment using the included truss rod wrench.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions
Fret Buzz
Check string height and neck relief. Minor adjustments can often resolve this. If persistent, consult a professional.
Poor Intonation
If notes played at the 12th fret do not match the open string an octave higher, intonation needs adjustment. This can be done at the bridge saddles. Refer to detailed guides or a professional.
Guitar Not Staying in Tune
Ensure strings are properly stretched after replacement. Check tuning machine heads for looseness. Extreme temperature changes can also affect tuning stability.
No Sound from Amplifier
Check all cable connections, ensure the guitar's volume knob is up, and verify the amplifier is powered on and charged (if applicable). Test with different cables or guitars to isolate the issue.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 13.2 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 4.92 x 17.13 x 40.75 inches |
| Item model number | DST-100S |
| Batteries | 1 CR2032 batteries required. |
| Back Material | Poplar Wood |
| Body Material | Poplar |
| Color Name | Sunburst |
| Fretboard Material | Purpleheart |
| Guitar Pickup Configuration | H-S-S |
| Scale Length | 648 |
| String Material | Nickel Plated |
| Top Material | poplar |
| Neck Material Type | Maple |
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Guitar Bridge System | Guitar Single Swing Bridge |
| Size | 39" Right Handed |
| Proficiency Level | All |
| Battery type | Lithium Polymer |
| Brand | Donner |
| Color | Sunburst |
| Hand Orientation | Right |
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
Donner products typically come with a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the official Donner website or your purchase documentation for specific warranty terms and conditions.
Customer Support
For any technical assistance or product-related inquiries, please contact Donner customer support. They offer 24-hour global service. You can also refer to the comprehensive User Guide (PDF) available for download. The product also comes with a 30-Day Return and Exchange Policy.
