As a country music lover, finding the perfect instrument to accompany your playing style can be a daunting task. The ES-335, a semi-hollow body electric guitar, has become a popular choice for country music due to its warm and versatile sound. However, with different models and specifications to choose from, it can be overwhelming to pinpoint the right ES-335 for your needs. In this article, we will explore the various ES-335 models available and guide you on how to choose the right one for your country music playing style. We will also cover the essential set-up and maintenance tips to ensure your ES-335 stays in top condition for years to come. So grab your guitar and let’s dive in!
Different ES-335 Models
When it comes to finding the right ES-335 for your country music playing style, there are several models to consider. Each model offers its own unique features and benefits, from specific finishes to different types of necks and fingerboards. By understanding the differences between these models, you can make the best choice for your needs. To learn more about the history and evolution of the ES-335 in country music, check out our informative article on the subject. Or, get inspiration from some of the top players in the genre with our list of the top 5 ES-335 players in country music.
The Standard ES-335
The Gibson ES-335 is one of the most iconic electric guitars of all time. It debuted in 1958 as the world’s first semi-hollow electric guitar, and its unique sound quickly became a favorite of guitarists in many different genres. The standard ES-335 model is still in production today and has been used by countless musicians in a variety of styles. Here are some of the key features of the standard ES-335:
- Semi-Hollow Body: The standard ES-335 features a semi-hollow body design, which gives it a rich, warm tone that is perfect for country music. The body is made from maple wood, with a center block of maple running through the middle to reduce feedback and improve sustain.
- Classic Look: The ES-335 is instantly recognizable thanks to its classic design. It has a double-cutaway body shape, f-holes, and a variety of finishes to choose from. Whether you prefer the vintage sunburst or a sleek black look, the ES-335 has a style that will fit your taste.
- High-Quality Hardware: The standard ES-335 comes equipped with high-quality hardware, including a Tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece. These components help to maintain tuning stability, which is crucial for country guitar players who need to switch between chords quickly and smoothly.
- Versatile Pickups: The pickups on the standard ES-335 are designed to be versatile, with a wide range of tones available. The standard configuration includes a 57 Classic in the neck position and a Super 57 in the bridge position. These pickups can be coil-tapped, allowing you to switch to single-coil mode for a brighter, twangier sound.
- Comfortable Neck: The neck on the standard ES-335 is designed for comfort and playability. It has a rounded “C” shape and is made from mahogany, with a rosewood fingerboard. This combination provides a smooth playing surface that feels great in your hands.
If you’re looking for a guitar that can deliver the classic country sound that you crave, the standard ES-335 is a great choice. Its semi-hollow design, versatile pickups, and high-quality hardware make it ideal for a variety of playing styles. Additionally, if you want to learn more about how the ES-335 compares to other popular guitars for country, check out our comparison between the ES-335 and the Telecaster. Or, if you want to dive deeper into the sound of country music and the ES-335’s role in it, read our article on the sound of country music with the ES-335.
The ES-335 Dot
The ES-335 Dot is another popular model in the ES-335 family, bridging the gap between affordability and quality. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider the ES-335 Dot as your go-to guitar for country music playing style:
- Construction: The ES-335 Dot features a semi-hollow body with a center block made out of maple, providing added sustain and reducing feedback. The body is made with laminated maple top, back, and sides which gives it a snappy attack and bright sound suitable for playing country music.
- Hardware: This guitar comes equipped with classic hardware including a Tune-O-Matic bridge and stop bar tailpiece for better resonance transfer, as well as vintage-style Kluson tuners for accurate tuning stability. The pickups are a set of classic 57 Classic humbuckers which deliver a warm, vintage tone that is ideal for country style.
- Playability: The ES-335 Dot has a comfortable and slim taper neck which is perfect for fast and accurate playing, while the rosewood fingerboard and dot inlays give it a classic, vintage look. The frets are medium jumbo which strikes a balance between playability and tone.
- Overall Sound: Thanks to its semi-hollow body construction and classic humbucker pickups, the ES-335 Dot delivers a warm, full-bodied tone that is well-suited for country style. The clarity of each note is great, and the sustain and feedback reduction make it an excellent choice for live performances as well.
The ES-335 Dot is a great guitar for those on a budget who don’t want to compromise on quality. Its construction, hardware, playability and sound make it a versatile guitar that can handle a variety of playing styles. If you’re looking for a guitar that will deliver classic country tone and looks that will inspire you to play, the ES-335 Dot may be the perfect fit for your playing style.
The ES-335 Satin Finish
The ES-335 Satin Finish is a versatile model that provides a range of sound options. This guitar is built with a semi-hollow body that is made of laminated maple wood. The top and back of the guitar feature a satin finish that adds a vintage vibe to its overall look. The wood used for the body of the ES-335 Satin Finish provides a warm tone that perfectly suits country music.
This particular model has a mahogany neck that is shaped into a slim taper profile. The fingerboard is made of rosewood and has a 12-inch radius with 22 medium jumbo frets that provide smooth playability.
One of the standout features of the ES-335 Satin Finish is its pair of Burstbucker 1 and 2 humbucker pickups. These pickups deliver a punchy and warm tone that is perfect for country-style playing. The sound produced by these pickups is rich and dynamic, allowing for a wide range of sound options.
Specs for the ES-335 Satin Finish:
Body Material | Laminated Maple |
Neck Material | Mahogany |
Fingerboard Material | Rosewood |
Scale Length | 24.75 inches |
Number of Frets | 22 |
Pickup Configuration | Burstbucker 1 and 2 humbuckers |
The ES-335 Satin Finish also comes equipped with a Tune-O-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece that provide excellent tuning stability and sustain. The guitar’s hardware is finished in chrome, which complements the overall vintage look of the guitar.
Whether you are a seasoned player or a beginner, the ES-335 Satin Finish will provide you with an excellent playing experience. Its warm tone, versatile sound options, and smooth playability make it a top choice for country-style guitar playing.
The ES-335 Figured
The ES-335 Figured model is a visually stunning guitar that offers a unique look and sound. Here are some key features and benefits of this model:
- Unique Figured Wood: The ES-335 Figured is named after its beautiful figured wood, which gives it a distinctive appearance. The wood, often maple or walnut, is visually stunning with its intricate grain patterns and colors that range from light to dark. This guitar looks as good as it sounds.
- Enhanced Tone: The figured wood used in the ES-335 Figured model is specially chosen for its tonal qualities. The wood allows for more resonance, which can enhance the guitar’s overall sound. The tone of this guitar is warm and rich, perfect for country music.
- Custom Shop Level Quality: The ES-335 Figured model is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of this guitar, from its stunning figured wood to its precise construction. It’s essentially like owning a custom shop level guitar, but without the custom shop price tag.
- Versatility: Despite its unique sound and appearance, the ES-335 Figured is a versatile guitar that can handle a wide range of playing styles, including country music. The dual humbucker pickups allow for a range of tones, from clean and bright to dirty and gritty.
- Comfortable Playability: The ES-335 Figured has a comfortable neck and fingerboard, making it easy to play for extended periods of time. The frets are smooth and the action is consistently low, providing a smooth playing experience.
The ES-335 Figured is a visually stunning, high-quality guitar that provides enhanced tone and versatility for country music and a range of other playing styles. Its unique figured wood and attention to detail make it stand out from other models, and its comfortable playability ensures that it can be enjoyed for hours on end.
The ES-335 Block
The ES-335 Block is a classic model of the ES-335 series, designed to provide a rich and warm tone that is perfect for country music playing style. This guitar features a sleek and stylish design with a distinctive block inlay pattern that adds a touch of elegance to its appearance. It is built with the same quality standards as the other models of the ES-335 series, providing players with a solid and reliable instrument that they can depend on.
One of the standout features of the ES-335 Block is its high-quality tonewoods, which are carefully selected to provide the warm and balanced tone that country music players are looking for. The body of the guitar is made with a laminated maple material that ensures an even and consistent sound throughout the instrument. The neck and fingerboard of the guitar are made with mahogany and rosewood, respectively, which are known for their excellent sustain and clarity of tone.
Another important aspect of the ES-335 Block is its pickups, which play a crucial role in defining the sound of the guitar. This model comes equipped with a pair of powerful and versatile humbucker pickups that offer a wide range of tonal options. With this guitar, you can easily switch between clear and bright tones, as well as warm and rounded sounds that are perfect for country music.
The ES-335 Block also features a sturdy and reliable hardware system, including high-quality bridge and tailpiece components that ensure excellent tuning stability and intonation. The guitar is designed to accommodate a variety of playing styles, from light fingerpicking to aggressive strumming, making it a versatile tool for any country music player.
Here is a breakdown of the key features of the ES-335 Block:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Tonewoods | Laminated maple body, mahogany neck, and rosewood fingerboard |
Pickups | Two humbucker pickups for a wide range of tonal options |
Hardware | High-quality bridge and tailpiece components for excellent tuning stability and intonation |
Design | Sleek and stylish design with a distinctive block inlay pattern |
Versatility | Accommodates a variety of playing styles, from light fingerpicking to aggressive strumming |
The ES-335 Block is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality guitar that is specifically designed for country music playing style. With its warm and rich tone, versatile pickups, and reliable hardware, this guitar is sure to satisfy even the most discerning players.
Country Style with ES-335
Are you a country music fan who loves the iconic twangy sound of the ES-335 guitar? If so, you might be wondering how to select the right ES-335 guitar to fit your country style. When it comes to achieving that crisp, clean country tone, there are several factors to consider beyond just model and brand. In this section, we’ll explore the unique features of an ES-335 guitar that make it well-suited for country music playing style. From pickups to wood quality to versatility of sound options, we’ll examine everything you need to know to choose the perfect guitar for your country music needs.
Suitable Pickups for Country Style
When it comes to choosing the right ES-335 for country music playing style, one of the most important factors to consider is the pickups. Pickups are responsible for capturing the sound of the guitar and shaping it into a signal that can be amplified.
For country music, the ideal pickups are those that offer a clear and bright tone, with a balanced mid-range and well-defined highs. Here are some pickups that are suitable for country style playing:
- Single-coil pickups: These pickups are known for their bright and clear tone, and are often used in country music for their crispness and clarity. Some great single-coil pickup options include the Seymour Duncan SSL-1 and the Fender Single-Coil Vintage Noiseless pickups.
- P-90 pickups: These pickups offer a similar bright and clear tone to single-coil pickups, but with a slightly warmer sound. They are a great option for players who want a more vintage sound. Popular P-90 pickups include the Gibson P-90 and the Lindy Fralin P-90.
- Humbucker pickups: These pickups offer a warmer and thicker sound than single-coils or P-90s, while still maintaining clarity and definition. Humbuckers are a good option for players who need a little more sustain or want a fuller sound. Some popular humbucker pickups include the Gibson ’57 Classic and the Seymour Duncan SH-55 Seth Lover.
Ultimately, the right pickups for your playing style depend on personal preference and the sound you are trying to achieve. It’s a good idea to try out different pickups and see which ones work best for you and your country music style.
Wood Quality for Warm Tone
When it comes to choosing the right ES-335 for country music, the wood quality is a crucial factor that determines the tone of the guitar. The tonal characteristics of the wood have a significant impact on the warmth, sustain, resonance, and overall sound of the instrument. It is essential to pay close attention to the type of wood used in the construction of the ES-335.
Here are the wood qualities that you should look for when choosing an ES-335 for country style:
- Maple Top: A maple top provides a bright attack and clear high-end response that complements the country style well. It also offers excellent sustain and resonance, which is essential for sustaining notes and chords.
- Back and Sides: The back and sides of the ES-335 should ideally be made of mahogany wood, which offers warm and mellow tonal characteristics. Mahogany also adds depth and richness to the mid and low range frequencies, which is ideal for country music’s rhythmic patterns.
- Fingerboard: The fingerboard of the ES-335 should be made of rosewood, which offers a smooth and warm tone. This wood also provides a comfortable playing experience as it is less dense than other woods, making it easier to play for extended periods.
- Neck: The neck of the ES-335 should be made of mahogany for a warm and full sound. Mahogany offers a stable and stiff wood that helps to reduce the loss of energy from the strings to produce a more sustained and resonant sound.
- Pickups: The pickups also play a significant role in the tone of the ES-335. Single-coil or humbucker pickups are ideal for country music’s high twangy sound. Humbucker pickups offer warmer and fuller tones, while single-coil pickups offer brighter, more cutting sounds.
By selecting an ES-335 with the right wood qualities, you can achieve warm, resonant sounds that are perfect for country music playing styles. From the maple top to the mahogany sides and back, each component of the ES-335 plays an essential role in crafting the ideal tonal characteristics for country music. With a little bit of research and careful consideration, you can find an ES-335 that delivers the perfect tonal qualities for your preferred country music style.
Versatile Sound Options
When it comes to country music, the right ES-335 guitar must provide versatile sound options that allow players to create a range of tones for different songs and settings. Let’s take a closer look at some of the sound features that an ES-335 guitar should have to cater to the country playing style.
Pickup Configuration
An ES-335 guitar for country music should have a pickup configuration that allows players to alternate between several pickup combinations to adjust the sound output. Typically, country music requires a moderate output with some clarity in tone. A humbucker pickup in the neck position provides a warmer, more rounded sound that’s well-suited to country rhythm playing. A single-coil in the bridge position, on the other hand, produces twangy tones for leads and licks. The middle position can be a combination of both pickups for more versatility.
Tone Variations
A country-style guitar must come equipped with tone controls for adjusting the sound. Both tone knobs can be utilized for varying the sound output, along with a three-way pickup selector switch. This allows players to balance out the treble and bass and adjust the overall sound to match the playing style.
Coil-tapping Option
A coil-tapping option is another versatile feature that provides greater tonal control. This feature allows a humbucker pickup to sound like a single-coil when split, thereby offering more tonal options. Some ES-335 models come with coil-tapping, while others require customization.
Bridge Quality
The bridge is another crucial component that affects the sound quality. A typical country guitar should have a bridge that ensures good intonation and sustain to produce a crisp and clear sound. The type of bridge, whether a tune-o-matic or a floating bridge, can be chosen based on personal preference.
To sum up, choosing an ES-335 guitar with versatile sound options is essential for playing country music. The guitar should have a pickup configuration that allows controlling the sound output, tone variations to balance the treble and bass, a coil-tapping option for increased tonal control, and a high-quality bridge for good intonation and sustain. By focusing on these features, you’ll be able to select an ES-335 guitar that provides all the sound options you need for your country playing style.
Pickup Configuration | Tone Variations | Coil-tapping Option | Bridge Quality |
---|---|---|---|
A humbucker in the neck position and a single-coil in the bridge position | Tone knobs and a three-way pickup selector switch | Allows a humbucker to sound like a single-coil when split | A bridge that ensures good intonation and sustain |
Neck and Fingerboard Choice
When it comes to choosing an ES-335 for country music playing style, you shouldn’t overlook the importance of neck and fingerboard choice. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Neck Shape: A comfortable neck shape is essential for any guitar player as it affects the playability of the guitar. A thin neck with a shallow “C” shape is ideal for faster playing, while a rounder neck is better suited for chord-based playing. The neck shape is usually a matter of personal preference, so make sure to try out different necks and find the one that suits you best.
- Fingerboard Profile: The fingerboard profile determines the curvature of the fingerboard. A flatter fingerboard is more suited to playing chords and bending strings, while a more curved fingerboard is better for fretting individual notes. Again, this is a matter of personal preference, so choose the fingerboard profile that feels most comfortable to you.
- Fingerboard Material: The fingerboard material affects both the tone and the feel of the guitar. Maple fingerboards are brighter and more articulate, while rosewood fingerboards are warmer and more mellow. For country music, rosewood fingerboards are a popular choice as they provide a warm and inviting tone that blends well with the twangy sound of country music.
- Fret Size: The size of the frets can have a noticeable impact on the playability of the guitar. Bigger frets make it easier to perform bends and vibrato, but can also cause intonation issues if not set up correctly. Smaller frets are better for chords and rhythm playing, but can be more difficult for soloing. Choose the fret size that feels most comfortable for your playing style.
Taking the time to choose the right neck and fingerboard combination for your ES-335 can greatly enhance your playing experience and help you achieve your desired country music sound. So, make sure to consider all the factors above and try out different options before making your final decision.
ES-335 Set-up and Maintenance
When it comes to owning an ES-335, proper set-up and maintenance are essential to keep your guitar sounding and playing at its best. Neglecting these aspects of guitar care can lead to less-than-optimal sound quality and uncomfortable playability. In this section, we’ll explore the important factors of set-up and maintenance to ensure that your ES-335 stays in great shape for years to come. From choosing the right string gauge to keeping your guitar’s tuning stable, we’ll cover everything you need to know to maintain your ES-335 like a pro.
String Gauge and Action Height
One crucial aspect to consider when playing country music with an ES-335 is the string gauge and action height. Action height refers to the distance between the strings and the frets. The string gauge, on the other hand, refers to the thickness of the strings.
The standard action height of an ES-335 is typically 3/64” for the low E and 2/64” for the high E. However, depending on your playing style and technique, you may need to adjust this height to achieve optimal playability and sound.
In terms of string gauges, you can choose from various options ranging from light to heavy. Generally, country-style players prefer lighter gauge strings to allow for easier bending and quick fingerpicking. A popular choice among country guitarists is the .010-.046 gauge as it strikes a balance between playability and tone quality.
In addition to the light gauge, it’s also essential to consider the type of strings you use on your ES-335 for country music. Strings made of nickel tend to produce a warmer and brighter tone that complements country music’s twangy and bright sound.
To ensure optimal playability of your instrument, it’s essential to maintain proper action height and string gauge. The following table summarizes some popular options for action height and string gauge for country-style playing on an ES-335.
Action Height | String Gauge |
---|---|
.062″ (for slide players) | .011-.049 |
.054″ | .011-.049 |
.046″ | .010-.046 |
Remember, the action height and string gauge you choose are dependent on your playing style and preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different options until you achieve the optimal playability and sound you’re looking for.
Tuning Stability
One crucial aspect of getting the most out of your ES-335 for country playing is ensuring the guitar has good tuning stability. Nothing spoils a performance quicker than an out-of-tune guitar, and nothing can be more frustrating to a player than constantly having to retune their instrument. It is important to make sure your guitar has the stability needed to stay in tune for long periods.
Guitar tuning stability can be affected by several factors, including the quality of the guitar’s construction, the strings’ gauge, and the set-up of the guitar.
The first factor that affects tuning stability is the quality of the guitar’s construction, particularly the quality of the tuners. The quality of the tuners on your ES-335 goes a long way in determining how well your guitar stays in tune. High-quality tuners are built with exceptional precision and can hold tuning very well. If you are experiencing tuning problems with your guitar, you may want to consider upgrading your tuners to a higher-quality one.
Secondly, string gauge also affects tuning stability. Gibson recommends using medium gauge strings on ES-335 guitars, as they provide the best balance of tone, playability, and tuning stability. Additionally, the heavier the strings, the more tension is placed on the guitar’s neck and bridge, making it more difficult to stay in tune.
Finally, the set-up of your guitar can also have an impact on tuning stability. Ensure that the action height is set correctly, and the nut and bridge are well-cut. Any issue with any of these factors can cause intonation problems and affect tuning stability. So, consult a professional luthier to set up your guitar or make the necessary adjustments.
Here’s a summary in a table format:
Factors | Description |
---|---|
Tuners | The quality of tuners affects how well the guitar stays in tune. Consider upgrading to a higher quality one. |
String Gauge | Use medium gauge strings to ensure the best balance of tone, playability, and tuning stability. |
Set-Up | Ensure that the action height, nut, and bridge are well-cut to avoid intonation problems and affect tuning stability |
Tuning stability is a particularly critical aspect of playing country music with an ES-335. Ensure you have good quality tuners, use the correct string gauge, and have proper guitar setup. By doing so, you will significantly increase the tuning stability of your guitar, providing you with the poise you need to play your best.
Care and Maintenance
Keeping your ES-335 in proper care and maintenance is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Neglecting your guitar can cause it to lose its tone, playability, and overall value. Here are some care and maintenance tips to keep in mind:
Check for Damage | Clean Regularly | Store Properly |
---|---|---|
Regularly inspect your ES-335 for any signs of damage, such as cracks or scratches, and address those issues promptly. If left unchecked, minor damage can quickly escalate into major problems that can cause permanent damage to your guitar. | Dust, fingerprints, and other debris can compromise your ES-335’s tone and performance. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down your guitar regularly to keep it looking and playing its best. If you need to remove stubborn dirt or grime, use a mild soap and water mixture and dry immediately. | Do not leave your guitar lying around or exposed to the elements. Always store your ES-335 in its case, and keep the case closed when not in use. Avoid extreme temperatures, high humidity, and direct sunlight, as these can all lead to damage or warping of your guitar. |
Keep it Humidified | Replace Strings as Needed | Get Regular Tune-ups |
Guitars require a specific level of humidity to stay in optimal shape. A humidifier can help regulate the moisture level in the guitar’s wood, preventing it from becoming too dry or too moist. Keep your guitar in a room with a humidity level between 40-60%. | Strings lose their tone and playability over time, so it’s essential to replace them regularly. The frequency of string changes will vary depending on how often you play, but a general rule of thumb is every three to six months. | Take your ES-335 to a qualified guitar technician for regular maintenance and tune-ups. They can properly adjust the truss rod, check the intonation, and clean or replace any worn guitar components to keep your guitar playing its best. |
By following these care and maintenance tips, you can take care of your ES-335 and ensure that it stays in top condition for years to come. Proper care and maintenance not only keep your guitar looking and sounding great but also helps protect your investment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right ES-335 guitar for your country music playing style requires attention to various factors. It’s important to consider the different models available, such as the Standard ES-335, ES-335 Dot, ES-335 Satin Finish, ES-335 Figured, and ES-335 Block. Each of these has its unique features that can enhance the sound of your country music style.
The suitable pickups for country style, wood quality for warm tone, versatile sound options, and neck and fingerboard choice are also essential elements to consider when choosing the right ES-335 for country music playing style. Be sure to prioritize these features according to your individual preferences and sound goals.
Once you’ve selected the right ES-335 for your country music playing style, it’s important to maintain it properly. This includes getting the right string gauge and action height, ensuring tuning stability, and taking proper care and maintenance of your guitar to keep it playing at its best.
Incorporating these factors into your decision-making process will help you choose the right ES-335 for your needs and allow you to create the best possible sound for your country music style. So, take your time and choose wisely – your guitar will be the foundation of your music, and the right one can help you realize your full potential as a country musician.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ES-335 guitar?
The ES-335 is a semi-hollow body electric guitar that was first introduced by Gibson in 1958. It has a distinct tone and design, making it a popular choice among many musicians.
What makes an ES-335 suitable for country music playing?
An ES-335 is a versatile guitar that can produce warm tones that are perfect for country music. It has the right balance of brightness and sustain that complements the genre well.
What are the different types of ES-335 models?
There are several ES-335 models available, including the Standard, Dot, Satin Finish, Figured, and Block. Each model has its unique features and tonal variations.
What kind of pickups are suitable for country style playing?
Pickups that produce a bright, clear, and articulate sound are ideal for country music playing. Single-coil pickups, P-90s, and humbuckers are all great options depending on your preference.
What kind of wood should an ES-335 have for warm tone?
ES-335 guitars made of maple, mahogany, or a combination of both woods tend to produce warmer tones. The wood quality and finish also play a significant role in the overall sound of the guitar.
What sound options should an ES-335 have for versatility?
An ES-335 with split-coil and coil-tap options allows for more tonal variations. A guitar with a versatile control layout like a 3-way toggle switch, individual tone and volume knobs, and pickup selectors can also provide more sound options.
What neck and fingerboard materials are suitable for comfortable playing?
The choice of neck and fingerboard materials is critical for comfortable and seamless playing. Rosewood, maple, and ebony are popular fingerboard materials, while mahogany and maple are commonly used for the neck.
How should an ES-335 be set up for optimal performance?
An ES-335 should have the right string gauge and action height for optimal performance. Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure the guitar’s tuning stability and intonation are in check at all times.
How often should an ES-335 be maintained?
An ES-335 guitar requires regular maintenance to ensure it stays in optimal playing condition. It’s best to clean and condition the guitar after each use and have it set up by a professional at least once a year.
What can I do to prolong the lifespan of my ES-335?
To prolong the lifespan of your ES-335, it’s essential to handle it with care and store it properly. Always use a suitable guitar bag or case to protect it from damage and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures and humidity.