V Carve/Aspire vs Fusion 360 - Guitar Builders Dilemma?

Software
1

I’ve read all the threads and I’m still uncertain where to set up my “software” shop.

  1. Primarily I will be using my x carve for making guitars.
  2. I’ve already downloaded a ton of 3D guitar files, just no clue with how to get them ready in a CAM program.
  3. I am interested in getting a 3D printer at some point

My findings so far:

  1. V Carve looks to be easier to use (Shorter Learning Curve)
  2. Fusion 360 has more capabilities in relation to 3D product development
2

this statement is what would make me want to try to learn fusion 360.

the X-Carve is a subtractive machine. 3D printer is an additive machine.

Fusion 360 can be used for both in terms of design and then export.

not saying you could not use V-Carve for 3D printing design just never heard of anyone using it as a go to in that environment.

using one program for both would have the advantage of only one program to learn and get used to.

3

John,

I committed to learning Fusion since I am doing CNC and 3D printing and its all I one software package. the learning curve is steep, but I feel I ultimately can be more creative if I can use two different machine types especially for prototyping. build some uses right now. I’ve got it down for 3D printing/desigining but just starting to learn CAM for the carve with it now.

4

Good to know; I have a bunch of 3d files I downloaded into fusion 360, but trying to figure out how to pull out certain parts (guitar body, neck, fretboard) and create CAM files for them.

5

Where do you get your 3d files?