Introduction
Playing a guitar is a hobby that many people enjoy. And often, people spend a lot of money on their guitars. One question that many budding guitarists have is whether it’s worth paying more for a certain type of finish. There are some finishes that are much more expensive than others. But are they worth the extra cash? In this blog post, we will look at five guitar finishes and examine whether they are worth the investment.
Table of Contents
1. Nitrocellulose Lacquer Finish
2. Polyurethane Finish
3. Oil Finish
4. Tung Oil Finish
5. Shellac Finish
Conclusion
FAQ
Nitrocellulose Lacquer Finish
Nitrocellulose lacquer is a very popular finish for guitars. This type of finish has been used for many years, and it is known for its durability. Nitrocellulose lacquer is created by dissolving nitrocellulose in a mixture of solvents, such as lacquer thinner and alcohol. This creates a liquid that is then applied to the guitar.
The advantages of using nitrocellulose lacquer finish are:
– It has a very glossy and shiny finish
– It is very durable, and can last a long time
– It is very easy to repair or touch up if it gets damaged
– Nitrocellulose lacquer finish is breathable, which means that it allows the guitar to vibrate more freely, producing a better sound
While nitrocellulose lacquer is a great finish, it is also one of the most expensive finishes. Some guitarists believe that the high price is worth it, while others believe that they can achieve a similar finish with a less expensive finish.
Polyurethane Finish
Polyurethane finish is a type of finish that is becoming more popular with guitarists. It is a very durable finish, and it is also easy to apply. Polyurethane finish is created by mixing a polyurethane resin with a solvent. This creates a liquid that can be applied to the guitar.
The advantages of using polyurethane finish are:
– It is very durable and resistant to scratches
– It is very resistant to moisture and humidity, making it great for guitars that will be played in areas with high humidity levels
– It is very easy to apply
The downside to polyurethane finish is that it can produce a very thick and heavy finish. This can affect the sound of the guitar, as the thick finish can dampen the vibrations of the wood.
Oil Finish
Oil finishes have been used for centuries, and they are a great way to bring out the natural beauty of the wood. Oil finishes are created by applying a thin layer of oil to the wood and allowing it to soak in.
The advantages of using oil finish are:
– It is great for bringing out the natural beauty of the wood
– It is very easy to apply
– The thin layer of oil allows the guitar to vibrate more freely, producing a better sound
The downside to oil finish is that it is not as durable as other finishes. It can also be difficult to touch up if it gets damaged.
Tung Oil Finish
Tung oil finish is a type of oil finish that is becoming more popular with guitarists. It is created by extracting oil from the seeds of the tung tree. Tung oil finish is very durable, and it is resistant to water and other liquids.
The advantages of using tung oil finish are:
– It is very durable and resistant to scratches
– It is very resistant to water and other liquids
– The thin layer of oil allows the guitar to vibrate more freely, producing a better sound
The downside to tung oil finish is that it can be more difficult to apply than other finishes. It can also take longer to dry, which means that the guitar will be out of commission for a longer period of time.
Shellac Finish
Shellac finish is a very old type of finish that is still used today. It is created by dissolving shellac flakes in alcohol. This creates a liquid that can be applied to the guitar.
The advantages of using shellac finish are:
– It produces a very thin and transparent finish
– It helps protect the wood from damage
– It is very easy to touch up if it gets damaged
– Shellac finish is breathable, which means that it allows the guitar to vibrate more freely, producing a better sound
The downside to shellac finish is that it is not as durable as other finishes. It can also be difficult to apply, as it requires a lot of coats to achieve the desired finish.
Conclusion
After examining these five guitar finishes, it is clear that there are advantages and disadvantages to each of them. While some finishes are more expensive than others, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you want a finish that will last a long time and be very durable, then polyurethane or nitrocellulose lacquer finish may be the best options for you. However, if you want a finish that is more natural-looking and allows the guitar to vibrate more freely, then oil, tung oil, or shellac finishes may be better choices.
FAQ
Q1. Will a more expensive finish improve the sound of my guitar?
A. There is no evidence that a more expensive finish will improve the sound of your guitar. In fact, some expensive finishes can actually dampen the vibrations of the wood and produce a worse sound.
Q2. How often should I touch up my guitar’s finish?
A. The frequency of touch-ups will depend on the type of finish that you have on your guitar. Some finishes, such as nitrocellulose lacquer, are very easy to touch up. Others, such as oil finish, may require more frequent touch-ups.
Q3. Can I apply guitar finish myself?
A. Yes, it is possible to apply guitar finish yourself. However, some finishes, such as shellac finish, can be difficult to apply and may require professional help.
Q4. Is it worth paying extra for a high-quality finish?
A. The decision of whether to pay extra for a high-quality finish is ultimately up to you. While some finishes are more expensive than others, they may last longer or be more durable. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal preferences and budget.
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