So I've got my 96 d-03r and I want to treat it right. Its already lived a great life and I want to help it live the max amount in good playing health. As it stands right now its got nothing special going on at all. Just goes in the case when I'm done playing it. I live by Branson MO (to give you an idea of the climate)...what things should i invest in to help my guitar last? soundhole humidifier? special polish? ....you know what i mean?
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Wipe it down after each time playing with a Micro cloth (http://cherokeeguitar.com/product-detail.php?id=33) and according to Larrivee - > 80% of the guitars returned requiring repair have damage which is the result of severe dehydration. Damage due to dehydration is not covered under warranty because it is owner-preventable environmental damage. Many people do not realize how damaging very low humidity can be on a solid wood instrument.
I use THESE (http://oasishumidifiers.com/case.html) but some do it yourself contraptions are fairly easy to put together and work just as well.
AND ONE OF THESE (http://oasishumidifiers.com/hygrometer.html) or something like it near your instruments doesn't hurt either. Monitor regularly during the danger time of your locale.
Anything else is bonus IMHO
I find my guitar feels much better if I implement to Larrivee forum motto:
'Play the snot out of it'
(Motto copyright of Jim Holler, Trinity Guitars)
Seriously, buy a hygrometer, keep an eye on humidity and action accordingly. I don't really do much else. I give it a really good clean every string change with a very slightly damp cloth and a dry microfibre cloth.
I give mine a good wipe down after playing, including the neck and fretboad/strings.
I wash my hands BEFORE playing.
If I am sitting down whilst playing and wearing a short sleeved shirt, I put a microfiber cloth between my arm/lower bout so as not to sweat on the git.
Lastly, the second I stop playing...even if it's to answer the phone or make a pit stop...I case the guitar.
Here in Oxnard we don't really have a temp/humidity problem, but still, I keep a humidity/temp gauge going in the room....just peace of mind I guess.