Tonewood isn't really any special kind of wood. It's just a word that is used to describe wood that is used in the construction of guitars. Wood that is used in guitar building generally has acoustic properties that will provide a high quality sound, or tone, when the guitar is built - hence the term tone wood. This term can be used to describe the back, sides, or top of a guitar but is most often used to describe the top wood of the instrument. The bottom line is that the type of wood you choose for your guitar's top will play a major role in the overall sound of your finished instrument. Read on to learn how to select a high quality top tonewood for your guitar.
Always Choose Quartersawn Wood
Be sure that you are purchasing guitar top wood that quartersawn. Quartersawn wood has been cut into quarters lengthwise along its axis. This is important because quartersawn wood will have more stiffness than other wood. If possible, select wood that limits the vertical grain to no more than 20 degrees off the vertical.
Count Growth Rings
More growth rings means higher quality. The best guitar top woods will have at least 20 growth rings per inch. However, you can buy wood with as few as 12 per inch and still end up with a high quality sound.
Top Stiffness is Key
Stiff tops will provide better sound quality that tops that are mushy or easily bendable. A high number of growth rings and quartersawn wood will help to ensure you are getting a stiff top, as will buying wood from a reputable dealer. However, you can also pick up your soundboard and try to flex it parallel to the grain to check the stiffness.
Tap Tone is Important
If you are buying your guitar top tone wood in person, it's always a good idea to tap test it. Do this by picking up one half of the top set. Hold it between the thumb and index finger and let the wood hang freely from your hand. With the knuckle of your index finger, tap the guitar several times in the center of the wood plate. You should hear a clear, bell-like response. The ideal is a top soundboard that vibrates freely and resonates well.
What About Species
The species of wood you choose for your guitar top is going to play a role in the sound of your finished instrument. Most guitar builders choose to use either a Red Cedar or Sitka Spruce for their acoustic guitar building projects. Both of these are quality tone woods. As you look at wood, keep in mind that different grades of wood will affect the appearance of your guitar more than the sound.
Always Choose Quartersawn Wood
Be sure that you are purchasing guitar top wood that quartersawn. Quartersawn wood has been cut into quarters lengthwise along its axis. This is important because quartersawn wood will have more stiffness than other wood. If possible, select wood that limits the vertical grain to no more than 20 degrees off the vertical.
Count Growth Rings
More growth rings means higher quality. The best guitar top woods will have at least 20 growth rings per inch. However, you can buy wood with as few as 12 per inch and still end up with a high quality sound.
Top Stiffness is Key
Stiff tops will provide better sound quality that tops that are mushy or easily bendable. A high number of growth rings and quartersawn wood will help to ensure you are getting a stiff top, as will buying wood from a reputable dealer. However, you can also pick up your soundboard and try to flex it parallel to the grain to check the stiffness.
Tap Tone is Important
If you are buying your guitar top tone wood in person, it's always a good idea to tap test it. Do this by picking up one half of the top set. Hold it between the thumb and index finger and let the wood hang freely from your hand. With the knuckle of your index finger, tap the guitar several times in the center of the wood plate. You should hear a clear, bell-like response. The ideal is a top soundboard that vibrates freely and resonates well.
What About Species
The species of wood you choose for your guitar top is going to play a role in the sound of your finished instrument. Most guitar builders choose to use either a Red Cedar or Sitka Spruce for their acoustic guitar building projects. Both of these are quality tone woods. As you look at wood, keep in mind that different grades of wood will affect the appearance of your guitar more than the sound.
About the Author:
Georgia Luthier Supply is your source for the very best guitar tone tonesoundboardss available anywhere. In addition to tonesoundboardss, GLSS also offers guitar plans and a wide range of other luthier tools.. This article, An Overview Of Top Tone Wood For Guitar Building has free reprint rights.
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