Sitka Spruce vs German Spruce Guitar Tops

Summary

In this video, Sean from Hancock Guitars compares two popular timbers used for guitar tops: Sitka Spruce and German Spruce. Sitka is the most common wood used in acoustic steel-string guitars, known for its bright, clear sound. In contrast, German Spruce is often favored for classical and archtop guitars, offering a warmer, more complex tone with rich overtones. While Sitka is more economical and widely available, German Spruce, with its unique aging process, might appeal to those seeking a distinct sound. Sean encourages guitar builders and players to experiment with both woods to find their preferred tonal qualities.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sitka spruce is the most common timber used for acoustic steel string guitar tops worldwide.
• 😀 German spruce is primarily used for classical guitars, arch top guitars, and occasionally by hand makers for steel string guitars.
• 😀 Both Sitka and German spruce are similar in that they are stiff, lightweight, and have fine, straight grains.
• 😀 Sitka spruce grows in North America, while German spruce grows in Germany and other parts of Europe.
• 😀 Aesthetic difference: Sitka spruce is pinker in color compared to the whiter German spruce.
• 😀 Both timbers darken with age, but German spruce tends to darken more significantly than Sitka spruce.
• 😀 Sitka spruce is stiffer than German spruce when flexed across the grain.
• 😀 Guitars made with Sitka spruce tend to have a bright, clear sound, while German spruce offers a warmer, more complex tone with more overtones.
• 😀 Sitka spruce is more economical and easily available, making it a popular choice for many guitar makers.
• 😀 While Sitka spruce guitars are widely available, trying a German spruce guitar at least once is recommended for those looking for a different tonal experience.

Q & A

What are the two main types of spruce used in guitar tops discussed in the video?

The two main types of spruce discussed are Sitka spruce and German spruce.

Which type of spruce is most commonly used in acoustic steel string guitars?

Sitka spruce is the most commonly used timber for the tops of acoustic steel-string guitars.

What is the primary use of German spruce in guitars?

German spruce is more commonly used on classical guitars and arch-top guitars. It's also used on some steel-string guitars, mainly by hand makers.

What is the difference in color between Sitka spruce and German spruce?

Sitka spruce is comparatively much pinker than German spruce, though both darken with age. Over time, German spruce becomes darker than Sitka.

How do the trees of Sitka spruce and German spruce differ?

Sitka spruce grows in North America, while German spruce grows around Germany and other parts of Europe. Both types of spruce have similar qualities, though they are from different regions.

What is the stiffness difference between Sitka spruce and German spruce?

Sitka spruce is comparatively stiffer than German spruce. When flexing across the grain, Sitka feels stiffer.

What is the tonal difference between Sitka spruce and German spruce in guitars?

Sitka spruce has a brighter sound, while German spruce produces a warmer, more complex tone with more overtones.

How does the age of a guitar affect the appearance of its spruce top?

Both Sitka and German spruce darken with age. However, German spruce becomes darker than Sitka spruce over time.

Which type of spruce is more economical and easier to find?

Sitka spruce is more economical and easier to obtain, making it a popular choice for guitar tops.

Is it worth trying a guitar with a German spruce top?

Yes, it is worth trying a guitar with a German spruce top. Although Sitka is more common, the sound of German spruce may appeal to some players due to its warmer tone and overtones.